QT: The Secondary Character Counterattacks (Obey Me! characters x Reader)

Chapter 3: Today I'm a Cute French Maid

Upon reaching the Rosewater estate, you headed straight into your room to wear something more homey.

"I'm going to eat dinner first," you instructed Lyrra as she folded your polonaise dress. "Once I am done, I'll be taking a bath so make sure you have everything prepared in time. Thank you."

Lyrra bowed and left for the laundry room as you went to the dining room, where the rest of your family had already begun dinner.

You found your seat far away from the earl and the stepmother.

As you cut into your duck, one of your sisters, Deneve, spoke up, "It's rare for sister not to wear makeup, in fact, I do declare that this is the first time I've ever seen you bare-faced."

"It is good that you are no longer painting your face so heavily, as it covers your, ahem, natural beauty, but there is such a thing as too light, sister," added your second sister, Alma.

"Yes, otherwise, how could you win His Highness back."

The two girls shared a laugh.

Chuckling, you explained, "It just so happens that most of my makeup has been violated by some rodents—" the girls flinched in unison, like prison escapees with a spotlight flashed onto them "—and I decided not to touch it for fear of infection."

"I understand." Deneve cleared her throat. "If that's the issue then I hope you went out to buy more paint and covered yourself while doing so."

Stepmother Cezara came to their rescue and cut in, "Don't feel offended, dear, your sisters are just looking out for you. You know what they say about women who go out with naked faces."

"I assure you all that I will not do anything that risks bringing shame to myself." You nodded understandingly. "I am grateful for your advice and for giving me courage."

"Goodness, courage for what?"

You dabbed the corners of your mouth with your napkin. "Why, I would have never even considered leaving my room bare-faced if not seeing your confidence in wearing such light makeup."

You put down your napkin. "Thank you for the meal. Good night, everyone."

[The father is sneaking a glance at you.]

"He's surprised that I didn't come over to say goodbye personally as I always do." In the original timeline, MC had become mildly ill when she heard of the prince's scandal and had to eat in her bed. Only her maids ever visited her. This time, your ignoring the earl could be excused to delirium from the shock of the news.

You went to introduce yourself to the staff in the kitchen and apologize for not welcoming them sooner. "I hope to spend more time with you all in the future."

You then proceeded to speak with the head chef. "Chef Bonnefoy, was it? I wanted to personally thank you for that amazing dinner you prepared for us tonight. That duck à l'orange warmed my soul."

"Thank you, young miss. It's a family recipe."

"Well, please extend my thanks to your family because it was one of the best ducks I've ever had." You picked up a wicker basket from the counter. "Speaking of family recipes, I'm feeling a little under the weather because of the cold. Would it be all right if I took some of the ingredients here?"

"Please tell me what you want, milady, I will prepare it myself."

"Oh, I couldn't disturb you now, you just finished that fantastic meal. Besides, this recipe was my mother's and I...when I make it I feel closer to her."