The courtesans of Joseon and this world are worlds apart in status.

    It’s not simply a matter of being free citizens versus lowborns; many courtesans here come from noble families.

    These are women who either missed their short window for marriage or whose families have fallen from grace.

    Raised as noblewomen, they possess knowledge, grace, and refined education from birth.

    With noble blood and a strong will to live life actively, these women have what it takes to become everyone’s favorite.

    Especially here on this continent, where it’s considered a virtue to keep multiple courtesans or even mistresses in addition to one''s wife.

    “It’s a pleasure to meet you. I am Fabio de Medici, the second son of the Medici family. It is truly an honor to be in the presence of such beauty.”

    The standard greeting for any noble when meeting a courtesan.

    But at this moment, I wasn’t exaggerating a single word.

    The person before me had the looks that could rival any Hollywood actress.

    ‘So this is what they mean by eye candy.’

    “Pleased to meet you.”

    She spoke politely, but her attitude conveyed a sense of looking down on me. I couldn’t blame her for that.

    After all, she was a courtesan of Count Bovong, my father’s lord. In terms of power alone, she was far above me, a mere second son of a barony without a title.

    “I’ve been indebted to the former Baron Medici for some time, so I’m glad to finally have a chance to repay that favor.”

    She flashed a smile that could easily captivate anyone.

    Her smile was like a living photograph, mesmerizing.

    No wonder men are so crazy about courtesans.

    “And I’ve also been quite interested in you, young master.”

    “What might that be about?”

    Her gaze landed on the refreshments before us.

    A white whipped cream cake and a fragrant cup of tea.

    “It’s only a dessert, but it became a sensation the moment it was made. Thanks to that, you’ve become quite well-known in social circles.”

    In the 21st century, being a trendsetter, even in Korea, wouldn’t get you a seat in the National Assembly.

    But in this era, power fluctuates based on one’s reputation among nobles.

    To lead a trend is to overcome a significant hurdle to success.

    Who knew that making just one cake would earn me this much recognition?

    “I’m grateful for your kind words about someone as inexperienced as me, madam. I came today with a special favor to ask.”

    “Yes, feel free to speak. I’ll introduce you to a perfect partner for you.”

    In the Tosca Empire, it’s common knowledge that when a noble debuts in society, they attend with a courtesan.

    In romance fantasy novels, they bring their legitimate wives.

    But in reality, politically arranged marriages are often loveless, so it’s not uncommon for men to bring a courtesan as a partner, even if they’re married, unless it’s a particularly formal occasion.

    For a man, it’s simply more convenient to go with a beautiful, well-mannered, and obedient woman.

    In the 21st century, it would be impossible to understand someone cheating on their wife, but what can you do?

    In a world full of one-eyed people, someone with both eyes straight ahead would be considered abnormal.

    “It’s not that. I came to ask for a little help with my business.”

    “Do you want me to introduce you to other nobles or merchants?”

    Honestly, it does make me feel a little guilty, given the unfairness I faced when looking for part-time jobs in Korea.

    But a guilty conscience doesn’t pay the bills.

    It’s not as if I’m betraying anyone, so there’s no reason to feel bad.

    The man left with a dejected look.

    “Hiring staff based on appearance sure makes for a pleasant view.”

    The men in suits looked quite handsome, and the women in maid uniforms brightened up the surroundings.

    The furniture, floor, wallpaper, and tableware—all carefully chosen—created a scene that looked like something out of a romance fantasy novel.

    “And desserts and tea that women go crazy for? This place is bound to be a trendsetter.”

    Once the opening creates a buzz, it’ll be chaos.

    Nobles, unfamiliar with the concept of patents, will undoubtedly try to imitate our cafe?.

    They’re a bunch who can’t stand not having what others have.

    And they’re always ready to do whatever it takes if there’s money to be made.

    The grand clock I’d bought to set the cafe?’s ambiance and track time chimed.

    “Is it time to open?”

    Since the staff training wasn’t quite complete, this opening is only temporary, just a trial run.

    The employees, lured by high salaries and rigorously trained, quickly moved to their positions.

    The moment we opened, a few women in extravagant dresses arrived at the cafe?.

    “Welcome.”

    A male staff member in a suit approached to greet them.

    He smiled as he welcomed them, and the women smiled back.

    After all, being good-looking is always best.

    “I’ll show you to the terrace.”

    The man guiding them was actually a regular citizen chosen for his face and height.

    Thanks to crash training, his movements had a dignity that rivaled that of a noble’s butler.

    Not quite a match, but close.

    “What would you like to order?”

    After taking their orders, the courtesans began chatting.

    They talked about the cafe?, events from yesterday, and which clothes looked good...

    And onlookers’ gazes lingered on them as they passed by.

    Different expressions, but generally filled with admiration and a touch of envy.

    A few noble ladies saw the cafe? sign and were about to step inside.

    “I’m sorry, ladies, but we’re not officially open yet. Only special guests pre-approved by Young Master Fabio can enter.”

    They looked like they wanted to protest.

    But after looking at the staff’s convincing expressions, they nodded in understanding.

    “We officially open the day after tomorrow, so please visit us then.”

    By the end of the day, it felt like a whole truckload of noble ladies had promised to visit.

    Success was practically guaranteed.