“You’re…thanking me? For what?” He arched a brow and Duchess immediately felt awkward. Perhaps she shouldn’t have taken his compliment so seriously. Now it looked like she’d never been called pretty before. Though Duchess was fine with explaining things, the idea of explaining how the words ‘pretty’ coming from his mouth made her feel seemed slightly informal. It didn’t seem Duchess. So she ignored his question, cheeks pinkening (more) and eyes flicking to the ground nervously, lips pressed together. “Why are you so dedicated to cleaning the school, anyways? Do they, like, pay you?” Yes, Duchess got paid. But it wasn’t in gold, the way the boy was probably expecting. Not only did the Royal family provide her with shelter, connections that would last a dozen lifetimes, and a companion in Callie, the pride in satisfaction that came from making sure their lives were immaculate was worth more than the finest gold and jewels. She looked at the blonde, still looking a little nervous. Would he understand her explanation, if she tried to give one? No one really seemed to, and her feelings wouldn’t be hurt if she didn’t. She took a small breath. “There is payment, yes. But I don’t know if it’s the type of payment you’re thinking about.”
She made her spine straighter, if that was possible, leaving his blue eyes to examine her handiwork. The grassy ground, flat concrete, and stony path were absolutely spotless. She allowed a small smile to play on her lips. “Not too shabby, huh? Not a single wrapper, map, guidebook, or homework assignment in sight. That’s payment to me, in a small way. Knowing I’m the reason the ground is spotless. When the teachers comment on how nice the school looks, or the environmental club doesn’t frown because the recycling is overflowing with rotting food, that feels better than money.” She tilted her head, waiting to see if he would be understanding towards that. He nodded soon after she offered, accepting. She looked instantly excited, dark eyes sparkling, though she didn’t yet beam. She wanted to keep herself composed. “-You work for free.” This did not give Duchess pause, especially after what she had just admitted to him. She did favors for people all the time. She was well-off and didn’t need money. She was already nodding when he finished, “You also get to see my handsome face every day.” His smirk gave her butterflies. Am I sick?! She smiled at him, “I accept. It would, of course, be my pleasure.” She said genuinely.
He looked away, admitting she was right. She kept her eyes on his anyways, not seeming to mind. She nodded as he added in his own bit. “You don;t have to.” She assured him, smiling slightly. She giggled slightly awkwardly, Stephanie…? Was he trying to guess her name? Was it a nickname of sorts? She hadn’t mentioned her name…SHE HADN’T MENTIONED HER NAME?! How had she forgotten? Duchess never forgot to formally introduce herself. Stephanie forgotten, and eyes wide, she began, sounding worried. “Oh my goodness, I forgot to introduce myself. I’m sorry, that’s a bit embarrassing.” She stared at her black flats before meeting his eyes. “My name is Novalei Skårsgard. You can call me ‘Duchess’ if you’d like. Everyone does. May I ask your name?” She nodded instead of curtsying when she spoke her own name.
@viiel.x - elias : NO I TOOK EVEN LONGER TO RESPOND!!! I am so sorry!! I still need to do some reactions too, so pls slap me- at least duchess has her banner finally- NOT STEPHANIE THO IM DEAD-