"Two months ago, Her Majesty the Queen summoned Miss Veronique over this matter and asked what reward she wanted. She said she only wished to become your maid. After confirming that she possessed outstanding skills in court etiquette, grooming, silent dusting, cooking, and the like, Her Majesty gladly agreed."
Veronique's family were hereditary nobles and held a certain standing at Versailles Palace, so she was barely qualified to serve as the Crown Prince's maid. Queen Mary had also agreed out of gratitude for her help to Camellia.
Camellia glanced at the girl, then said quietly to Joseph, "Your Highness, Miss Veronique truly admires you. When she learned that she would be coming to Brussels, she was so excited that she could not sleep for several nights."
Joseph smiled and nodded at Veronique, but felt nothing in particular.
After all, he had dozens of maids around him, and he could only remember the names of a few bedroom maids. The competition was fierce as well. This lady might be replaced in a few months.
"Your Highness," Veronique reminded him carefully, "what about dinner?"
"Oh, it is rather late today. I shall taste your cooking another time."
"As you wish, Your Highness." The girl's face showed just the right amount of disappointment. She stepped back two paces and resumed her station behind Camellia.
Joseph turned to Eman. "Please have the chefs prepare an extra dinner and send it here. I would like to dine with Camellia."
He had been away from Paris for quite some time and intended to hear from Miss Maid about the recent circumstances of the King, the Queen, Charles, and the others.
At the mention of dinner again, Camellia suddenly puffed out her chest with a touch of pride. "Your Highness, thank you for your invitation. Um, I