Side Story 21: The Victory Parade and Tea Party (3)

"P-Pleased to meet you, Rerence-sama! I am Cecilia, daughter of Desanto Hogbeck! I-I hope you will remember me!"

"I am Opa, daughter of Voil Soleck, head of the Soleck family. Rerence-sama, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance."

Facing the two of them as they offered their stiff greetings, Queen Rerence smiled gently.

"Cecilia-san, Opa-san, I am very happy to meet you both. But please relax and make yourselves comfortable. I was the one intruding on your tea party, after all. It would make me uncomfortable if you were so stiff."

"Rerence-sama is right. You can relax; this is an informal occasion."

At Lapiria-sama's words, Queen Rerence lightly clapped her hands.

"That's right, Lapiria. Today is informal. Let's forget about our positions and enjoy hearing you gush about your fiancé!"

"W-Wait, Rerence-sama!"

Lapiria-sama was already blushing a little. Still, the two seemed very close. Noticing my puzzled expression, Lapiria-sama explained.

"Rerence-sama and I have known each other since I was a child. Whenever my grandfather brought me to the royal palace, she would dote on me."...