Under Veronique's suggestive gaze, Camellia's cheeks instantly flushed crimson. Lowering her head, she murmured, "Where did that, um, come from?"
Veronique linked arms with her and said softly, "My dear, I know you love His Highness deeply. I don't want to see you suffer endlessly because of that love."
"No, actually, I..."
"Isn't that so?"
"I, I..."
"Then it seems I misunderstood." Veronique made as if to leave. "I'm truly sorry. I had wanted to help you. Please forget what I just said..."
Camellia bit her lip, suddenly grabbed her, and asked quietly, "Do you... really have a way?"
Veronique winked at her. "A method my aunt used when she was young. It should work."
Camellia immediately clutched her even more tightly. "Then, then that's... wonderful... Oh, I mean, thank you so very much. You helped me aboard the Poroskafi before, and now I'm troubling you again."
Veronique took her arm and led her into the room. "You are the kindest, most beautiful young lady I have ever met. We are like sisters; there is no need to stand on ceremony with me."
"Mhm!" Camellia nodded vigorously. "You are my best friend too!" Then she asked eagerly, "The method you mentioned just now is?"
"I heard that the Crown Prince was accustomed to..."
As Veronique explained her plan, Camellia's beautiful eyes grew wider and wider, while her face turned even redder. "You're so clever. This will definitely..."
As she spoke, she shyly lowered her head. Yet she suddenly recalled the methods Madame Seles had told her about. Compared to Veronique's plan, they were like a cottage beside Versailles Palace. And she had paid Madame Seles several thousand Francs back then...
Then she asked uncertainly, "But how do you know the lock will break down at just the right moment?"
Veronique