Chapter 389: Reunion with Katerina
Tonight, Katerina wore a deep violet gown laced with golden accents. The tight-fitting dress perfectly outlined her elegant curves, her ample bosom barely contained by the fabric. Her golden hair was styled in an elaborate updo, exuding an air of nobility and grace.
Beside her stood her daughter, clad in a pure white gown. She had inherited her mother's golden hair and, though only sixteen, her figure was already fully developed. Her curves mirrored those of her mother, with a voluptuous chest and shapely hips—truly a beauty in the making.
Grand Duke Ferrandy remained standing before the throne.
"Tonight is a night of celebration. Today, my daughter Angela comes of age. Welcome, my esteemed guests, to my daughter's coming-of-age ceremony. Let us drink and revel until dawn!"
With the grand duke's words, the ball officially began.
The orchestra on the second floor struck up a melody. The ballroom buzzed with chatter, and young nobles gathered at the steps of the throne, eager for the honor of dancing with the princess.
"Boss, may I… may I have this dance?"
In the lounge area, Avinsa looked up at Li Meng with anticipation.
Li Meng smiled and stood, gracefully lowering himself onto one knee, extending his right hand.
"My lady, may I have this dance?"
Li Meng was no stranger to human customs.
Avinsa, surprised by his sudden display of chivalry, blushed and covered her lips with a smile.
She placed her delicate hand in his, and together, they walked toward the dance floor.
With his hand resting on her waist, they moved in sync with the music.
"Boss, you smell amazing."
Avinsa inhaled deeply, lost in his scent.
It sent shivers through her body, making every cell tremble with delight.
Li Meng pondered. He had heard similar words before—from Annie, and from every female who had been near him.
He himself couldn't detect his own scent, but perhaps…
"Could this be the effect of the Ring of Lust?"
A high charm value naturally exuded an aura that drew in females.
"Do you like it?"
Li Meng gazed at Avinsa's flushed face, amusement dancing in his eyes.
She was a ruthless assassin, known for slicing open her targets, yet here she was, clinging to him like a lovesick maiden.
Avinsa licked her lips seductively, her face burning with heat. She nodded lightly.
"Good. But don't get too addicted."
Avinsa's lashes fluttered as she buried her face against his chest, taking another deep breath.
She wanted the ball to end quickly.
She wanted to return to Bard's estate and surrender herself to him in bed.
Lost in her fantasy, her body trembled.
She collapsed into Li Meng's arms.
"Avinsa, you—"
A strong scent filled the air, making Li Meng shake his head.
She was too sensitive.
Avinsa gave him a shy, embarrassed smile.
"I… I couldn't help it."
Li Meng glanced toward their target, tightening his grip on Avinsa's waist.
"Don't forget the mission."
Regaining her composure, Avinsa took a deep breath and straightened herself.
Just then, the music ended. They stepped away from the dance floor, returning to the lounge.
"Boss, I'm going in."
Avinsa was ready to move.
Li Meng smirked and playfully slapped her waist.
"Go ahead."
Avinsa cast him a flirtatious glance before sauntering toward her target, her hips swaying seductively.
Li Meng watched with amusement.
Avinsa was a masterpiece of temptation. No man could resist her allure.
A man who could resist wasn't a man at all.
"That was… so cliché."
Avinsa casually bumped into Baron Priss from behind.
Priss turned to scold her, but upon seeing her face, his anger melted into a charming smile.
With a few words of apology, Avinsa had him laughing, engaged in conversation.
Her ample bosom swayed as she giggled, drawing his gaze.
His companion, a noblewoman, was left ignored, sitting stiffly with a forced smile.
Li Meng chuckled. It was a simple trick, but effective.
Shifting his gaze, he scanned the ballroom.
There were many women here who suited his tastes, both young and mature.
But bedding them tonight would be difficult.
After the ball, seeking them out would take time—time he did not intend to waste in Obenlo City.
"Excuse me, sir. May I have this dance?"
Li Meng turned toward the voice.
A noblewoman, clad in a black gown, curtsied gracefully.
Her coffee-colored hair cascaded down her shoulders.
Li Meng smiled and extended his hand.
"It would be my honor, madam."
"I am Reese, Baron Priss's wife."
Reese smiled as she placed her gloved hand in his.
Baron Priss's wife?
Li Meng glanced at the dance floor, spotting Priss waltzing with Avinsa.
So, Reese had been sent to keep him occupied. How very noble-like.
"A pleasure to meet you, madam. I am Baron William Max."
Hand in hand, they stepped onto the dance floor.
Reese was attractive, though not as stunning as Avinsa. But her figure was well-proportioned for a woman of her station.
However, something about her scent was off.
Despite her heavy perfume, Li Meng caught a faint metallic tang.
She wasn't wounded, so that meant only one thing.
It was that time of the month.
Normal men wouldn't notice, but Li Meng's senses were too sharp.
"Sir, you smell divine."
Reese moved closer, intoxicated by his scent.
Li Meng smiled courteously.
"Many wo—ladies have told me the same. It's a natural fragrance."
Reese chuckled lightly.
"It seems you are quite popular among women, sir."