Please Fall in Love with Me! – A Villainess on Her Second Loop, using 'Seduction' to Avoid Ruin! - Chapter 3.1

“I offer my greetings to the Sun of the Empire.”

With careful precision, she pinched the fabric of her dress, lifting it slightly as she gracefully extended one foot diagonally behind her, executing a refined curtsy.

“Yes! Adorable!”

As expected of the heroine—flawless character design!

“Eh…?”

Lady Fiona looked up, blinking in confusion.

—Oops. That slipped out.

Clearing her throat with a small cough, she quickly composed herself and offered a warm smile.

“Your posture was perfect, the angle of your bow was just right, and the way your dress swayed was impeccable. And, of course, you looked absolutely charming. But I can tell you’re still overthinking it, running through the steps in your head as you go.”

“Ah… Yes, I suppose so. I was consciously recalling what I learned as I moved.”

“That’s completely normal. But as you continue to practice, it will eventually become second nature. Don’t worry.”

“Do you really think so?”

“Of course. That’s the essence of etiquette—repetition until it becomes as natural as breathing.”

Haven’t you heard stories about people dining at high-end restaurants, so preoccupied with their table manners that they can’t even enjoy their meal?

That happens because they know the rules, but the knowledge hasn’t become instinct.

But if something is ingrained to the point where it’s as natural as breathing, there’s no room for discomfort. After all, have you ever been so focused on breathing that you couldn’t taste your food?

“As natural as breathing… Do you think I can reach that level?”

“Absolutely.”

“It’s just a matter of repetition. Even an idiot can do it.”

Claude, who had just arrived with the tea, stated this with complete indifference.

C-Claude! That might be fine when you’re talking to me, but at least soften your words a little for Lady Fiona!

“A-Apologies for his bluntness, Lady Fiona.”

“Oh, no, I understand! He just means that practice makes perfect, right? I’ll do my best!”

Instead of taking offense, Fiona clenched her fists with renewed determination.

Ah… she’s so earnest and adorable…

The heroine—Lady Fiona’s manners and etiquette as a noblewoman were truly disastrous.

I mean, I knew she was supposed to be ignorant. That was part of her character. But this was beyond what I had imagined!

It only confirmed that Count Christell had completely neglected his parental responsibilities. Honestly, if I had known just how bad it was, I would have punched him a good twenty or thirty times before leaving.

That’s why I was now working at full speed to instill the proper conduct expected of a noble lady.

Of course, this wasn’t limited to etiquette. I was also drilling her in essential noble knowledge—rules of high society, the customs and histories of key noble houses, and even theology, including the myths and detailed accounts of the Saintess legends.

I had no idea how long she would remain under the protection of the Kishtaria Ducal House, so I couldn’t afford to take my time. My teaching methods were a bit harsh, but as expected of the heroine, she had a sharp mind and an impressive natural aptitude.

Despite only starting three days ago, she was already showing remarkable progress.

“Lady Fiona, the tea is ready. Shall we take a short break?”

“Oh! Yes!”

Her face immediately lit up as she eagerly settled onto the sofa.

Taking a sip of her sweet honeyed milk tea, she let out a blissful sigh.

“Mmm~! So delicious! It completely melts away the exhaustion!”

“Oh? Is that so? In that case, your break will be limited to five minutes.”

Claude, checking his pocket watch, delivered his verdict without a hint of mercy.

Th-That’s a bit harsh…!

Even the ever-diligent and cheerful Lady Fiona looked visibly deflated at his declaration.

“…Mr. Claude, you appear so gentle and kind, with such graceful manners—you’re practically the epitome of a gentleman. But your personality is incredibly sharp… Is this how you always are with Lady Adelaide, too?”

“Claude is like this with everyone.”

“How rude. I do treat those who deserve kindness with kindness, and I do show respect to those who are worthy of it.”

“Huh? So, I’m not someone you should respect?”

“Correct. You are not.”

Claude stated it with absolute certainty.

Well, of course. He hated Adelaide.

It had only been three days since he became her personal butler—there was no way his opinion would change that quickly.

…Sniff.

“Th-Then… um… what do you think of me now?”

Did he still hate her just as much? Had there been no progress at all?

Feeling a little dejected, she hesitantly asked.

Claude pressed a finger to his lips, thinking for a moment before casually replying:

“…A financial asset?”

“Huh? So, you’re saying you acknowledge my usefulness? That’s great! Thank you!”

Claude’s eyes widened slightly, surprised by her unexpected reaction.

Even Lady Fiona looked stunned, staring at Adelaide in disbelief.

“A-Aren’t you being a little too positive, Lady Adelaide? I mean… being called a financial asset doesn’t seem like something you should be happy about…”