When Aier finally put on the outfit and caught a glimpse in the mirror of the absolute territory outlined by her thigh-high stockings, she almost instantly covered her burning cheeks.
She had always worn tights before; these black thigh-highs that left her thighs exposed were really something she couldn’t get used to.
“Doโฆ do I really have to wear this right nowโฆ” Aier made a final struggle.
“If you don’t get used to it now, what will you do if you get nervous and embarrass yourself when the VIPs arrive tonight? Summon your courage! Finish this job and you’ll soar!” Daila encouraged Aier with a mischievous gleam in her eye, clearly enjoying the spectacle.
At that moment, a Service Staff member ran over to report that the distinguished guests had arrived.
“You wait here for me.” Daila instructed Aier, then hurried off to greet them.
At the entrance of the Hotel, two luxurious carriages drawn by Purebred Black Steeds, their compartments adorned with intricate emblems, stood quietly in place.
Attendants and Guards in crisp uniforms and solemn expressions quickly lined up, clearing a perfectly unobstructed, dignified path for the important figures inside.
The Hotel’s owner, Countess Mageli, had also personally come to the entrance to wait.
She had changed into a refined, elaborate ruffled gown, her curls carefully styled, exuding an air of elegant grace.
Seeing Daila approach, Mageli asked in a low voice, “Is everything ready?”
Daila bent slightly, lowering her voice even further, “Rest assured, I’ve changed out everything that could be changed for new. That lord won’t be able to find a single fault.”
Just as she finished speaking, the Guards saluted in unison. The door of the first carriage was respectfully opened, and the Violet Emblem on the door shimmered with the noble luster of the Monica Royal Family under the lights.
Stepping out was none other than one of the Royal Capital’s three leading figuresโDuchess Xie Yier.
Today, she wasn’t in formal attire, but a flowing purple gown of light fabric perfectly highlighted her mature, captivating curves.
The moment she appeared, her presence eclipsed even the meticulously dressed Mageli.
The door of the second carriage soon opened as well, the Thorned Rose Emblem on the door flaunting the formidable bloodline of the Empire’s northern Ross Family.
A woman in a fiery red gown alighted with swift confidenceโshe was Anji Ross, the Ross family’s second daughter.
Her beauty carried an intense, aggressive air, bold and self-assured, her red lips curving in a disdainful arc that stood in sharp contrast to Xie Yier’s depth and Mageli’s elegance.
As these three womenโcapable of shaking the very political landscape of the Royal Capitalโentered the tavern together, all the “small fry” who had noticed the commotion at the door rose without exception to pay their respects.
The moment they stepped into the tavern, the heavy mix of perfume and alcohol hit Xie Yier, making her instantly furrow her elegant brows.
A flash of barely concealed disgust crossed her exquisite face; if not for the need to discuss private matters with close friends, she would never have set foot in such a public place.
But Mageli’s Hotel was already the most suitable spot in the entire Empire for friends to meet and relax in private, so she could only cover her mouth and nose with her Lace Handkerchief and endure the walk through the lobby.
Given the standards of hygiene in this era, Xie Yier’s obsession with cleanliness simply couldn’t be satisfied.
Both Mageli and Anji, knowing this quirk of Xie Yier’s, each took an arm and escorted her through the lobby.
Once they ascended the stairs to the second floor, the mingled scents of alcohol and perfume were finally left behind, making Xie Yier feel much more at ease.
The Hotel’s VIP Room was on the left side of the second-floor corridor, along with a row of private rooms, but the VIP Room was only ever used when Mageli herself required it.
“Xie Yier, come in and have a seat. I made sure to have everything thoroughly cleaned to your liking, and all the items replaced with new ones. It’s spotless.”
Xie Yier’s golden eyes swept over the room, which indeed looked completely renewed, and she gave a slight nod. “Thank you for your trouble.”
She then looked at Anji, “Anji, you sit too.”
Mageli gracefully nodded at Daila, who stood by, “Go bring in the pure and innocent young lady you mentioned, and bring out a few bottles of my finest Cellar Wine.”
“Understood!” Daila bowed at once and quickly left.
In the Changing Room, Aier was nervously adjusting her uncomfortable thigh-high stockings and short skirt when the door was suddenly flung open.
Without another word, Daila grabbed her wrist and dragged her out.
“Eh? W-wait a minuteโฆ” Aier stumbled after her.
At the door of the VIP Room, Daila finally stopped.
Knock, knock, knock! She rapped on the heavy, carved door.
“Ladies, I’ve brought the person.” she reported respectfully to those inside.
“Come in.” Mageli’s voice came through the door.
Daila, worried Aier would freeze up, gave her a last-minute instruction: “Remember to be sweet once you go in. If you don’t know what to say, just compliment them! Pick the one you like best and praise her beauty, nobility, and elegance for all you’re worth! Whatever you do, don’t clam up!”
She opened the door and pushed Aier into the room.
Aier took a deep breath, feeling as if she were walking to her execution.
“Sisโsisters, helloโฆ” Her voice sounded strangled, “My name is Aier.”
She instinctively lowered her eyes, not daring to look directly at the three figures seated on the soft sofa, who seemed as lofty as deities. She only felt as insignificant as a speck of dust.
At first, Xie Yier had been asking Mageli for advice on raising pets.
But when she heard the girl report her name, Xie Yier immediately looked up in surprise.
Once she got a clear look at the newcomer, a shadow flickered in her golden eyes.
At that moment, Xie Yier was very displeased.
Her little cutie had actually come to a place like this, and was even working as a hostess?!
She quickly hid her emotions, a barely noticeable curve appearing at the corner of her mouth.
Stillโฆ perhaps this was a good opportunity.
Xie Yier swiftly adjusted her mindset, her gaze taking on the sharpness of a seasoned hunter.
“Come here, little one, don’t just stand there. Sit next to me.”
Xie Yier patted the seat beside her.
Mageli and Anji exchanged glancesโthey could both tell Xie Yier was quite interested in this girl.
In the past, no matter how lovely the girl presented, Xie Yier would only have her sit across the table and ignore her afterward.
This time, she was actually letting the girl sit beside her!
At that moment, Aier felt the voice was a bit familiar, but couldn’t quite place it.
She still didn’t dare look up, shuffling over timidly.
Xie Yier wrapped an arm around Aier’s waist, pulling her close!
Aier’s thoughts: (สแฉสโ)!
Eh?! Eh eh eh eh?!
Xie Yier’s hands were already roaming a bit too boldly over Aier, who didn’t dare move or even breathe loudly.
No, waitโฆ wasn’t it just supposed to be pouring drinks?
Croak! Tricked!
By now, Aier was filled with regret, but could only bite her lip and silently endure.