The Emperor truly overestimated Vera and underestimated Hughes's ambition.
Every lady has her own pursuits. Vera was not entirely driven by power, nor did she care about noble houses or the nation like Lady Grissa; she preferred to find a young man who was easy on the eyes. If he had high status, that was all the better, but even if he didn't, it was enough to keep her heart light and her spirits high.
Thus, being young and handsome was her primary criterion.
Chapter 174