Chapter: 1030

Gretel grew to like him more and more.

Of course, everything was done quietly and out of sight.

A relationship that seemed to be ending soon turned into a happy secret love affair.

At this point, Gretel felt perplexed.

‘What if I get caught?’

It can’t be kept a secret forever.

At this rate, rumors would eventually spread considering Fritz’s status.

Wouldn’t Astelle be shocked if she found out?

‘What if she hates it deep down?’

Astelle, of course, wants Fritz to marry a bride of a good family.

Most likely she would want her brother to marry a noble lady considering he is the head of a prestigious family, a duke.

Around the time of those anxious thoughts, Gretel received Astelle’s invitation.

“Gretel, would you like to go to the summer palace?”

The moment Gretel heard that, she thought of Fritz, who was working day and night.

“Is the Duke going too?”

It was an impromptu question that reminded her of Fritz, who is under a heavy workload every day.

When Theor heard that, he begged Astelle to take Fritz along as well.

Thanks to that, Fritz joined the group.

Gretel was worried that it might arouse suspicion.

‘What if she doubts my relationship with the duke?’

Fortunately, however, Astelle didn’t seem to find it strange that Gretel mentioned Fritz.

Astelle was busy with preparations for the masquerade ball and trying to calm the Emperor, who was worried because of her pregnancy.

Thanks to that, she didn’t have time to think about Gretel’s words in detail.

***

The trip to the summer palace was good.