Episode 21
To confirm her suspicions, Dalia subtly addressed Sylvia.
“Actually, I really like the design of this dress line. Who made it?”
Dalia pointed to a dress that carried Mielle’s distinctive design most prominently.
“Oh, really?”
“Yes. I like it so much that I’d like to order several more in a similar style. Are these all the pieces you’ve made recently?”
“Yes… well, actually, there are still a few unfinished pieces.”
“May I see them?”
“I don’t think that would be possible. They’re still at an embarrassing stage, but if you give me a little time…”
“Even sketches would be fine. If possible, I’d like to see them today.”
“…You can’t?”
It was rare for a noble to speak so politely to a small boutique designer. And Dalia, accompanied by an almost blindingly handsome companion, was far from an ordinary noble.
While helping Dalia change, Sylvia realized a remarkable ‘trait’ about her. Though her profession forbade revealing a guest’s status before they did, she could tell from Dalia’s presence.
‘Good heavens… whether a saint or a princess, it’s definitely “that insignia.” How could Zephyros be hosting such a distinguished guest? There’s no way I could refuse her request.’
Trembling slightly, Sylvia finally retrieved a thick sketchbook from the last drawer.
Dalia examined each sketch meticulously. She discovered a design that would become a future sensation, the line that would make Zephyros famous.
“I want to buy these lines first, once they’re completed.”
“…Excuse me? I think I must have heard wrong.”
Sylvia hesitated when she saw what Dalia pointed at. Dalia smiled, noticing the subtle change in her expression.
“Look at these sketches. They’re wonderful. If possible, I’d like to pre-order even next season’s pieces.”
“All of them? I’m grateful, but the production costs… I don’t even know if I can make them all. How many of these will actually be produced…”
Sylvia couldn’t tell whether their request came from genuine interest or whimsical fancy. Carefully, she responded.
“Hmm… this is difficult to choose. Then, I’ll pay the material costs upfront. Make all of these flower-inspired pieces—I’ll buy them. The balance will be paid upon delivery. How does that sound?”
Dalia watched their reactions closely. It was natural they’d be surprised by such a bold offer. If Sylvia were truly the ruthless owner rumored in town, she’d have wanted to sell her own designs over Mielle’s.
“Is it possible?”
Mielle’s expression was unexpectedly more apologetic toward Sylvia than joyful. Dalia had expected her to be elated that her designs were acknowledged.
‘Then Sylvia…’
“Dear customer, your taste is truly exquisite!”
Mielle’s joy was genuine, surprising even Dalia.
“Oh?”
“Of course it’s possible! Then we must prepare fabrics most suitable for you. This is Mielle’s ambitious work. It’s a bit experimental, and no one has requested it yet, so she was worried.”
“I see… I assumed a more experienced dressmaker made it. Or is this your work, the shop owner?”
Dalia’s subtle remark made Sylvia shake her head vigorously.
“But you won’t be disappointed. In truth, this girl could have worked elsewhere, but she stayed out of loyalty. She’s my most rewarding student. If you look closely at these details, you’ll see nothing is left to chance—even parts most would overlook. The pattern ensures comfort while wearing and moving.”
“…Really? I’m still concerned…”
“Then I’ll help with the finishing touches. Mielle has handled a needle since childhood. Her experience isn’t small. She has a keen eye, meticulous hands, talent, and perseverance. She will create dresses that will surely delight you.”
Mielle blushed furiously, overwhelmed by Sylvia’s praise, and finally pleaded.
“Oh, please, stop, boss.”
“Why? I’m just thrilled to meet someone with good taste.”
Sylvia glanced at Dalia for agreement.
‘It seems the rumors about the just prince and Mielle were not what they seemed. The truth is more complex than the surface shows.’
‘How could someone like this be called a ruthless shop owner? The sensational reports must have been false.’
Dalia concluded that only those close to the situation had known the truth. Satisfied, she nodded at Sylvia.
“I also need clothes immediately. Let’s try on a few of these.”
Excited, Sylvia eagerly recommended dresses that would suit her perfectly, promising fast tailoring for a perfect fit. Indeed, she was far from the malicious shopkeeper portrayed in tabloids. The relationship between the two was clearly one of deep camaraderie, like teacher and student or close allies.
‘Then why were such false rumors spread?’
A disturbance arose outside.
“I’ll check what’s happening,” Mielle said as she went out. Dalia descended from the platform.
“Then I’ll give you my location for further coordination,” Dalia instructed.
“Understood. And your companion…”
Khalid, who had gone out at Dalia’s request, had not returned.
“He probably hasn’t gone far. Let’s step outside.”
Even as Dalia adjusted her attire, the commotion continued. Outside, a well-dressed couple was arguing with a man who guided Dalia and Khalid into Zephyros.
‘His name… Hanson?’
He had thrown a wooden sign used for shop advertisements. Dalia asked:
“What’s happening?”
Mielle looked troubled.
“That’s… the shop owner’s husband, Hanson. I’m sorry, customer.”
“May I speak to him first to handle the order?”
“No one is hurt, so we can watch for a moment,” Dalia decided.
Hanson had previously tried to roughly restrain Dalia. Observing the argument would show the extent of his aggression. Dalia readied her watch in her sleeve, waiting for the right moment. When Hanson grabbed a man’s collar among the arguing group, she stepped out.
“What are you doing right now?”
“Ah, customer! I heard you bought a lot from our shop. Thank you!”
The man’s demeanor instantly changed upon seeing Dalia.
“But there’s a disturbance inside. Can you explain?”
“It’s nothing serious,” Hanson stammered.
Sylvia approached, scolding him with firm pats on his back.
“Hanson! Were you rude to passersby again?”
“Yes. They refused to buy, but you tried to force them in.”
One bystander voiced frustration. When the crowd pressed around, they relaxed.
“I deeply apologize. As the owner, I am responsible. If possible, I’ll compensate for any inconvenience.”
Sylvia bowed repeatedly. Hanson, flustered, crossed his arms and looked away, silent.
“Compensation isn’t needed. But you must train your staff better.”
“You’re right. Thank you for your understanding. I’ll do it properly,” Sylvia promised, bowing once more.
Dalia’s sharp gaze lingered on Sylvia’s silent husband.
‘He caused the mess himself. Looks like I need to deal with him…’
As onlookers gathered, Sylvia paled. Any further negative exposure could harm the boutique’s reputation.
