The Cursed Villainess and the Tyrant Duke Episode 4: The Tyrant’s Gaze

Episode 4: The Tyrant’s Gaze

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Evelina freezes as the imposing man steps forward from the shadows. His stormy-gray eyes lock onto hers, unreadable and intense. The air feels heavier, and the murmurs of the nobles die down.

Evelina Everhart

*In mind*Oh no. Why does he look like he’s deciding whether to kill me or not?

The man bows slightly, his movements precise and controlled.

？？？

Lady Everhart. How unexpected.

His voice is deep, smooth, but there’s a dangerous edge to it. Evelina gulps.

Evelina Everhart

(nervous smile) Aha ha… likewise?(ಥ﹏ಥ)

Evelina Everhart

In mind Who is this man? Why does he feel like he could crush me with just a glare?!

Anna

(whispering) M-My lady, that’s Duke Valerius Draven…

Evelina Everhart

*In mind*Wait. What?! The Duke Valerius Draven?! The villain of the novel?! The one who—

Before she can finish the thought, the Emperor speaks.

Aldric Everthorn [Emperor]

(calmly) Duke Draven. I assume you have something to say regarding Lady Everhart?

Valerius turns his gaze back to Evelina. She suddenly feels very small.

Valerius Draven

(tilting his head slightly) Indeed, Your Majesty.

He steps closer. Evelina instinctively takes a step back.

Valerius Draven

I am merely… curious.

Evelina Everhart

In mind That sounds like a fancy way of saying, I’m debating whether to have you eliminated or not.

Valerius studies her, his expression unreadable.

Valerius Draven

It is unlike Lady Everhart to plead innocence.

Evelina Everhart

In mind Right, because the original Evelina was an unhinged menace. Great.

She quickly forces a smile.

Evelina Everhart

Well, Duke Draven, I’m simply full of surprises.

A tense silence. Then, unexpectedly, Valerius smirks. It’s barely there, but it sends a shiver down Evelina’s spine.

Valerius Draven

(low chuckle) It seems so.

The Emperor watches the exchange with mild interest before waving a hand.

Aldric Everthorn [Emperor]

Enough. The matter is settled.

Evelina exhales a breath she didn’t realize she was holding.

Aldric Everthorn [Emperor]

(coldly) Lady Everhart, leave before I change my mind.

Evelina Everhart

*In mind*No need to tell me twice!(ノ°益°)ノ

She curtsies quickly and turns to leave. As she does, she feels the weight of Valerius’s gaze still on her.

Evelina Everhart

*In mind*Why does it feel like I’ve caught the interest of the worst possible person?(;´༎ຶٹ༎ຶ`)

***

Depressed author

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