Chapter 13: Visitor

Buying whatever she liked, Rosa was in high spirits.

As she descended from the carriage at the porch, a butler was waiting for Rosa’s return at the entrance.

She was informed that Alex was in the drawing room.

She wanted to have a leisurely drink of tea, but her father told her to come right away, so she had no choice but to head to the reception room.

Upon entering the drawing room, Rosa was disappointed to find Alex chatting with her father.

“Miss Croitzer seems quite lively. I heard you went shopping today?”

After exchanging greetings, Rosa sat on the sofa, and Alex, who was sitting across from her, had a refined smile on his face.

“Yes, I wrote in the letter that there was nothing to worry about. But what brings you here today?”

Her words, unintentionally, became somewhat brusque.

Of course, Rosa had a smile on her face, but unfortunately, her default smile was intimidating.

“Rosa, you seem to be in good spirits. Would you like to go on a date today?”

“Huh? Why?”

Surprised by Alex’s sudden proposal, Rosa widened her eyes. In turn, Alex also looked at Rosa with a perplexed expression.

“Well, it’s only if you don’t have someone you’re interested in…”

This was becoming a troublesome situation. If she answered that she had no one in mind, Rosa would find herself in a difficult position.

“No, there is someone I find a little intriguing.”

“What?”

“Rosa, what are you saying?”

Both Alex and her father looked at Rosa with surprised expressions.

(Well, that was bound to happen. After all, she had been pursuing Alex relentlessly.)

“Your Highness, I’ve mentioned it multiple times, but it’s not a wound that requires you to take responsibility.”

Rosa uttered another refusal.

In the manga, Rosa was supposed to decide on the engagement forcefully, but the real world seemed a bit different.

For royalty, there were societal expectations and considerations for the Croitzer family.

Because of the injury Rosa sustained due to going out with Alex, he couldn’t just ignore her.

Despite Alex occasionally visiting with well wishes, Rosa had rejected all invitations to dates and dances.

After seeing Rosa’s reactions, her parents couldn’t hide their surprise, and Alex wore a perplexed smile.

Later, the family saw Alex off together.

◇

Candlesticks lit up the Croitzer family’s dining table, adorned with a pure white cloth and colorful appetizers.

Today, it seemed her father had no business negotiations, as the whole family was present.

“Rosa, why did you refuse the date proposal from His Highness?”

“Father, His Highness is trying to take responsibility and marry me. I don’t want that.”

Her words surprised her mother.

“Why, weren’t you fond of His Highness?”

“Maybe I forgot because I was kicked by a horse.”

Rosa spoke casually, and her brother chuckled.

“That’s right. His Highness didn’t seem to like you from the beginning.”

“Hey, Filbert, watch your words.”

Her father scolded her brother.

“It’s okay, Father. I also noticed it in my own way. Father, I don’t want to marry His Highness, and I don’t think we would be happy. So, even if it’s awkward, I’ve firmly decided not to engage with him.”

Her mother suddenly wiped away tears.

“What’s wrong, Mother?”

Rosa asked in surprise.

“Rosa, you’ve grown up. Until just recently, all you did was act spoiled, but now you’re becoming more aware of your surroundings and developing compassion. I’m glad you’ve become a good daughter.”

Her mother said it with a sense of satisfaction.

Seeing her mother like that, Rosa felt embarrassed.

Today, she indulged herself with the family’s money, making the situation a bit awkward.

Once again, she resolved firmly in her heart that she wouldn’t engage with Alex to prevent her family from facing financial ruin.”