The Young Lady Whose Engagement Was Annulled Decided to Observe What Would Become of the Kingdom thereafter - Chapter 5

I wanted to test how far my charm could take me. It wasn’t just curiosity—it was something like proof of my existence.

“Amaryllis, you are beautiful. One day, you will seize great happiness with that beauty.”

“Yes, Father.”

Those were the words my father had always told me since I was little. The Crimson family had risen from merchants to nobility just three generations ago. In the royal court, we were still looked down upon as “new money.” Being born into such a family, the greatest weapon I was given was this—beauty.

I wasn’t good at academics, politics, or diplomacy. But I had one thing I was confident in: the image of myself reflected in the mirror. Red hair and sapphire-blue eyes. Skin as white as snow and a supple figure. I wanted to make full use of it.

What could I achieve with this beauty? I wanted to find out.

To test that, I chose the ultimate prize: Prince Zain Cardinal. The next king of the realm—a man who already had a fiancée.

I’m more attractive than his betrothed, aren’t I?

Florence Vermilion was certainly a noble lady of a prestigious house, and she was educated. But she lacked the brilliance I had. She was stiff, cold, and devoid of allure. I figured I could do something about that.

To prove my beauty, I decided to challenge myself to steal the prince away.

Of course, I knew that just beauty alone wouldn’t be enough to win over a man—especially not someone already engaged to royalty. Deeper emotions would be needed.

Even loving him wholeheartedly had to become part of the plan. Mere charm and acting would be too superficial. Without genuine emotion, you can’t truly move someone’s heart. So, I resolved to truly love him. That way, I could make the most of my beauty. That was what mattered.

At the palace ball, dressed in a dazzling gown, I made sure to move so that I was always within the prince’s line of sight.

To my surprise, approaching the prince was far easier than I had expected. I thought that would be the hardest part, but he allowed me in so easily.

“Your Highness, it is an honor to meet you. Tonight’s party is absolutely splendid.”

It was just a simple remark, yet he responded immediately. In his eyes, there was a glimmer—like he was seeking salvation. Just from that one greeting. He must be starved for something.

But aren’t royals supposed to be more guarded than this?

I thought that to myself, even as I genuinely enjoyed our conversation. I made sure to show that joy openly. Soon, I spotted his vulnerability.

Prince Zain wanted to be acknowledged. He longed to be understood by someone. And he wasn’t getting that from his fiancée, Florence.

That was incredibly convenient for me.

“Your Highness, you are truly kind. I’m honored to know not just the strong prince everyone sees, but the real, sensitive you.”

When I said those words, I didn’t miss the change in his expression.

“Do you really think so?”
“Of course, Your Highness. I’m genuinely drawn to your character.”

I spoke sincerely. And in response, he smiled with genuine happiness.

From there, I deepened our relationship—carefully, deliberately.

• I staged chance encounters within the palace.
• I researched his likes and shared conversations about mutual hobbies with delight.
• I listened to his complaints and always showed unwavering support for him.

“Isn’t Lady Florence a bit too strict? You’re human too, Your Highness—surely you need to unwind sometimes.”

I never criticized his fiancée directly. I knew that would backfire. Instead, I subtly hinted at her flaws and highlighted how different I was in comparison.

“Just talking with you brings me so much joy.”

In front of him, I showed my best smile. Not a forced one—but a smile born from truly enjoying his company. That’s why I wanted him to choose me.

“Your Highness, I adore you.”

A secret rendezvous at the eastern palace. A confession under the moonlight. It was calculated, yes—but the words were true. I would fall in love, for real. I would show him this face—this heart.

Then came the unexpected moment during the seasonal celebration.

When Prince Zain publicly announced the annulment of his engagement to Florence and called my name, I was truly shocked. I never imagined he would go that far, that boldly.

“Amaryllis!”

As he called for me, I stepped forward gracefully. Surrounded by piercing stares, I smiled. A smile from the heart. I had been chosen. My instincts were right.

“Yes, Your Highness.”

I replied softly, casting a quick glance at Florence’s face. Her composure was a little surprising—but it didn’t matter. The only thing that mattered was that the prince had chosen me. My charm, my love had reached his heart.

As he held me in his arms, my chest swelled with joy and fulfillment. This was the proof I needed. My beauty was real. I had received the ultimate answer.

And unexpectedly, I now had a chance to become queen. This was truly a great stroke of fortune. Just like Father said—I could grasp great happiness with my beauty. I would never let go of Prince Zain’s heart. I will become queen.