Chapter 34: A Bloom Among the Everharts
The name Tiara Everhart was becoming known far and wide, whispered in both noble salons and common marketplaces. Her title as the "Angel of Aurelian" and the "Flower of High Society" carried weight that extended beyond her father's influence. The Everhart family had always been respected, but now they were revered for Tiara's actions.
Duke Everhart, however, had mixed feelings about the newfound fame.
In the Everhart Estate
"Tiara," the duke began, his deep voice filling the drawing room, "you've been spending far too much time at that hospital. You're the daughter of a duke, not a common healer."
Tiara, seated comfortably on a plush chair, sipped her tea with an innocent smile. "But Father, isn't it a duke's responsibility to care for all the people in his domain? Noble or common, they're all under our protection."
The duke sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. Cedric, seated beside him, smirked and leaned back lazily.
"She's got you there, Father," Cedric teased. "You always said nobles have a duty to serve."
"I didn't mean she should roll up her sleeves and start bandaging wounds herself!" the duke retorted.
Tiara giggled. "Don't worry, Father. I always make sure to come home before sunset. Besides, Felix is always with me, and Lily keeps me organized. You have nothing to worry about."
The duke gave her a long, measured look before his stern expression softened. "You're too much like your mother sometimes," he muttered.
Tiara's smile faltered briefly at the mention of her late mother. Cedric placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, and the room grew quiet for a moment.
"Well," the duke said gruffly, standing up, "if you're going to keep this up, at least let the family name shine with your efforts. Make us proud, Tiara."
"I will, Father," she replied with a determined nod.
A Social Gathering
Lady Belfort's gardens were alive with chatter and laughter. Nobles gathered under colorful canopies, sipping tea and enjoying pastries. The occasion was a tea party for rising stars in the noble circles, and Tiara was the guest of honor.
"Lady Tiara, you've become quite the sensation," one noblewoman gushed. "Your work with the commoners is inspiring. My husband even mentioned donating to the hospital in your name."
"That's very kind of you," Tiara said graciously. "The hospital could certainly use more resources to expand its reach."
Nearby, Lilith's grip on her teacup tightened. The spotlight was firmly on Tiara, and Lilith's carefully crafted reputation was starting to fade into the background.
"Lady Tiara," Lilith said sweetly, stepping forward, "you're truly remarkable. But isn't it exhausting, spending so much time with...less refined company?"
Tiara's eyes sparkled mischievously. "Oh, Lady Lilith, not at all. You'd be surprised how refreshing it is to be around genuine, kindhearted people. It's quite the contrast from certain social circles."
A ripple of laughter spread through the group. Lilith's smile froze, but she quickly recovered, shifting the topic to more trivial matters.
Meanwhile, in the Palace
Chris paced his study, his royal duties keeping him occupied. A stack of documents lay untouched on his desk as his thoughts drifted to Tiara.
"Your Highness," his aide said, entering with a bow, "news from the Everhart estate. Lady Tiara attended another tea party today. The nobles are singing her praises once again."
Chris smirked, leaning against his desk. "That girl doesn't know how to stay out of the spotlight, does she?"
"It seems she's even more popular than some of the imperial family," the aide added.
Chris chuckled. "Let her have her fun. I'll deal with her when the time comes."
At the Hospital
Back at the commoners' hospital, Tiara finished treating a young boy with a sprained ankle. Felix handed her a fresh towel, his usual stoic demeanor softening slightly.
"You're pushing yourself too hard, Lady Tiara," Felix said.
Tiara waved him off with a smile. "Nonsense, Felix. This is nothing compared to the battles you fight as a knight."
Felix shook his head. "Battles are straightforward. You, my lady, are fighting a war of goodwill."
Tiara laughed, wiping her hands clean. "And I'm winning, Felix. I'm winning."