I Don’t Want to Be Loved (Web Novel)
chapter-81

Chapter 81: Dinner With Igor

Basil’s mouth fell to the floor, eyes flooded with shock. “My Lord! My God, you remember all that?!”

Rihannan giggled lightly, one hand covering her mouth. “Yes. I remember. I hid it secretly and ate it away from my mother’s eyes. She never gave me treats. Thought my teeth would rot if I did.” 

“You were young. I thought you wouldn’t remember at all, Your Majesty.”

“No, no. Few people have clear memories of their youth. You’re smart…”

“How long will you stand there?”

Igor’s voice rang from behind. Rihannan and Basil stiffened at his sudden appearance. They had come to the door of the drawing-room and did not enter, merely talking casually to themselves.

Basil coughed and bowed politely. “I’ll be taking my leave, My Queen.” 

As Basil’s figure faded in the background, the laughter on Rihannan’s face quickly drained away as she said nervously, “I was talking to Basil. I had disrespected you. I’m sorry.”

Rihnannan bowed. Igor opened his lips and raised his hand, but he quickly put it down and looked away. 

Entering the drawing-room, she noticed many changes. In particular, the interior decorations that could not be seen from the outside were particularly noticeable. Rather than simple paintings that hung on the wall, tapestries, mosaics, and other decorums hinted more of a Crichton characteristic vibe than that of Arundell.

It was as if she had been transported back to her room in Crichton.

Igor looked at her, his eyes soft. “Rihannan… I thought the environment you’re familiar with would suit you better and so you’re able to adapt.”

Rihannan nodded at his words. “You’ve really prepared for the princess. I’ve no doubt that Princess Helena would be deeply impressed with your devotion.”

“…” Igor bit his lip and sighed. He pulled the table chair back and called her name. “Come. Sit down.” 

Rihannan nodded and sat opposite of him. 

They did not wait long. 

The servants served the dishes on the table efficiently and their quiet meal began. The silence was somewhat familiar to Rihannan. Igor had never spoken to her in the past.

“You don’t look too good. Is there something wrong?” Igor said out of nowhere.

Rihannan touched her face. The Duchess and Basil had never mentioned her pale complexion. She thought she looked fine but seems like this was not the case.

“I guess it might have to do with having trouble sleeping well last night. The environment has changed,” she said.

Yes. That was true. In a familiar environment, she felt secure, but dining here or having breakfast… it would not be surprising to fool herself that she returned to the past.

“I understand. Don’t worry. It’ll get better over time.” Igor said softly.

Rihannan quickly nodded. She thought Igor misunderstood her as finding the palace uncomfortable. 

Igor looked at her. He cut a slice of meat and put on her plate. 

She stared at him wide-eyed.

“Don’t just eat vegetables. Have some meat also,” Igor said.

Igor surprised Rihannan, surprised to see his behavior… different from what she knew. Things he would never do… he did. 

Rihannan looked down at her plate. She enjoyed fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and bread more so than meat. 

“Oh… I don’t really like meat.”

“You’ll end up having a weak body,” Igor replied.”

“…” Rihannan shut her mouth before retorting, “Are you saying that I’m a picky eater?”

“…That’s not it…”

“I don’t know why I have to hear things from you that my uncle and cousin never pestered me about,” Rihannan said coolly. 

“…I was just making sure you’re eating well,” Igor looked down and said softly, his voice too soft for Rihannan to hear. 

Rihannan said nothing more and stared at Igor flatly. 

Igor looked as if he was thinking of something, his countenance somewhat red. He took back the meat on her plate thereafter.

“I… I’m not forcing you to eat… just that I would like for you to have a balanced diet. If you are unable to eat it, it’s fine also.”