A surge of realization washes over me as everything clicks into place.
So that was the real reason... I think silently, piece by piece putting together the puzzle of Eleanor's past.
From everything I had gathered since waking up in this body, the original Eleanor had been sheltered, frail, and prone to childish tantrums that often humiliated the family in private. Desperate to protect both their public standing and their daughter from harsh high-society gossip, the Duke and Orlando had kept her secluded behind the estate walls. To the outside world, it looked as if the House of Valerius was ashamed of her or didn't care at all like a secret, unwanted daughter hidden away from the world.
And in this world, nobles are expected to enter the Imperial Academy at thirteen... . I'm twelve now. In just a few short months, I'll have to enroll.
If I were to enter the academy with a reputation as an outcast, unloved and abandoned by my own family, the arrogant noble students would tear me apart. It would be just like those villainess and portal-fantasy novels back in my world: the weak, unsupported lead getting relentlessly bullied and marginalized.
By throwing this grand, extravagant ball to celebrate my recovery, Father and Orlando aren't just hosting a party. They are sending an unmistakable warning to the entire empire: Eleanor Valerius is cherished, protected, and fully backed by the power of the Duke.
They really love Eleanor... A sharp, quiet pang hits my chest. I wonder why the original Eleanor could never see how deeply they cared? She spent her life feeling isolated, completely missing the fierce, protective affection right in front of her.
I feel a profound wave of pity for the original Eleanor and a heavier, aching guilt for her family. They're pouring all this devoted love and protection into me... without ever knowing that their real daughter is gone. I'm just an intruder living in her skin, receiving affection meant for someone else.
My smile fades entirely, my shoulders slumping as a quiet melancholy settles over me.
Orlando's sharp eyes catch the sudden shift instantly. He leans forward, his brow furrowing with genuine concern as his protective instincts kick right back in.
"What's wrong?" he asks, his voice surprisingly gentle despite his usual gruffness. "Why are you looking like that all of a sudden? It doesn't suit you at all. I told you the truth, so... please don't get angry with me, Eleanor."
"No... of course I'm not angry, Brother," I whisper, keeping my gaze fixed on my lap. I force a small, faint smile, though my eyes feel heavy. "I'm actually very happy... and grateful that you and Father are doing so much for me. It's just... I don't think I really deserve any of this. I haven't been a good sister to you, nor a good daughter to Father. I... I don't deserve such unconditional love."
"What on earth are you talking about?!" Orlando interjects firmly, his tone sharp with defensive outrage.
He leans across the gap between our seats, looking directly into my eyes with absolute, unshakeable conviction.
"You are a Valerius," he says passionately. "You are Father's daughter, and you are my younger sister. You deserve every single piece of happiness, luxury, and devotion this world has to offer! Never belittle yourself like that again. Keep your head held high, Eleanor, and be proud of who you are!"
"As Orlando's unyielding devotion warms Sara's heart, the heavy burden of her secret identity grows even greater. How will she navigate the grand ball when the entire capital gathers to celebrate the grand event?
Stay with us to find out how the story unfolds. "