Chapter 17

When I return to my office, a heavy, solemn silence has settled over the room.

 

The three men are sipping their tea in brooding silence, their expressions deadly serious. Even the Crown Prince, who usually thrives on a lively atmosphere, merely savors his tea with a stiff, rigid face.

 

‘Why is the vibe so intense? Did something happen?’

 

I pass right by them and take a seat at my desk. The solid sturdiness of the elegant mahogany and the comfort of the plush leather chair feel as though they are lending me strength.

 

So this is it—the sheer power of a Chief Librarian endowed with immunity.

 

Propping my elbows on the desk and interlacing my fingers, I speak in a grave, solemn tone.

 

“Your Royal Highness, what are your commands? The destruction of the continent?”

 

I’ve always wanted to try something like this. Playing the ultimate villain, discussing a wicked plot with absolute gravity.

 

For now, I decide to ignore the fact that Calix and William’s expressions have turned utterly bizarre at my sudden villain cosplay.

 

An awkward silence stretches across the office.

 

It is William who breaks it first. He clears his throat with an embarrassed, troubled look.

 

“Ahem. It seems… Librarian Erika has been under a lot of stress lately.”

 

Calix darts a furious glare at William.

 

“William, exactly how much work have you been piling on Erika? She’s mentally exhausted from overwork.”

 

Ludwig, on the other hand, rests his hand on his forehead as if lost in thought. Beneath his lowered brow, a dark, heavy shadow falls over his face.

 

“Hehehe.”

 

A low, sinister chuckle leaks from his lips.

 

“As expected of my librarian. You already knew what we were going to discuss. Librarian Erika, you and I truly are on the same wavelength.”

 

‘Of course, only Ludwig would truly appreciate my villain roleplay. They say a nutcase recognizes a nutcase. Not that I’m particularly thrilled by this inner sense of kinship.’

 

He sits elegantly with his legs crossed, resting his chin on his hand. Emitting the aura of ‘I am the final boss of this neighborhood,’ he flashes a mesmerizing smile.

 

Once again, I pretend not to see Calix and William’s faces contorting as they watch him.

 

“About that book club you suggested to Her Majesty the Queen—as long as we’re doing it, would you mind fulfilling a personal command of mine as well?”

 

What on earth is he trying to make me do? Deciding to at least hear him out, I reply meekly.

 

“What kind of command is it?”

 

“Include the crown princess candidates in the book club.”

 

“Yes…”

 

I nod dismissively, only for the realization to hit me a second later.

 

“Wait, what? Why?”

 

With a nonchalant expression, Ludwig speaks as if he is simply discussing the dinner menu.

 

“I want to test the qualifications of the future crown princess candidates. They often say marriage is the grave of life, don’t they? One must be exceedingly cautious.”

 

Though my brows knit together, I maintain a strictly professional composure.

 

“Your Highness, with all due respect…”

 

I begin calmly, but I meet his gaze with a defiant stare.

 

“Please rescind that order.”

 

I can’t help the deep surge of resistance rising from within. They say corporate life means doing whatever your superiors order you to do, but the book club is the one thing I absolutely cannot compromise on.

 

Ludwig stares at me intently, his eyes practically saying, “Oh? Look at her go.”

 

William looks thoroughly shocked, while Calix watches me with a deeply serious expression. I can feel his unwavering determination to support me, no matter what choice I make.

 

“You’re the first person to openly reject my command.”

 

Ludwig’s playfully teasing tone drops, shifting into something low and menacing. Or rather, perhaps he has returned to his natural voice—the voice of a ruler who holds the entire kingdom beneath his feet.

 

An open rebellion. I’ve definitely crossed the line this time. I just took another step closer to the guillotine. But hey, since I’ve already started this crazy stunt, I might as well see it through to the end.

 

It’s not like he’s actually going to kill me, right? Besides, there’s someone here who believes in me that much.

 

Without flinching an inch, I look the Crown Prince straight in the eye.

 

“It is not that I wish to disobey Your Highness. The book club was created to provide young ladies who have been marginalized from education with an opportunity to learn and enjoy culture. Political matters must not interfere with this.”

 

Perhaps my sincerity reaches him, because Ludwig’s coldly frozen expression begins to soften.

 

“Sigh.”

 

He lets out a faint sigh and presses a hand to his forehead as if a headache is coming on.

 

“Erika, please understand why I am issuing such an order. I am in a rather dire situation myself.”

 

“What do you mean by that?”

 

“The King’s illness is becoming critical.”

 

A flash of deep anguish passes through Ludwig’s expression.

 

In the original novel, he was a son who never received his father’s validation. Because of that, he craved his father’s love, which twisted his personality even further. Fortunately, the current Crown Prince is a deeply filial son who cares for his father immensely.

 

“His Majesty wishes to abdicate the throne as soon as possible, but I still lack the political faction needed to secure the crown. I haven’t fully gained the loyalty of the founding nobles either. I’m in a position where I need to build up the strength of the rising nobility to protect myself.”

 

Ludwig pauses for a moment, sending a look of profound trust toward Calix and William.

 

“His Majesty ordered me to at least take a crown princess for now. As things stand, the young lady of Schpern House is the most dominant candidate due to the political current.”

 

“Lady Eliade is a candidate?”

 

‘So it wasn’t just a baseless rumor floating around high society? I thought Eliade was just bragging out of vanity, but it was actually true? Is power and backing really everything in this filthy world?’

 

“His Majesty places deep trust in Schpern House. However, my thoughts are entirely different. The Schpern family is like a century-old serpent disguised as a loyal subject.”

 

The Crown Prince scoffs coldly, looking disgusted at the mere mention of the Schpern family.

 

‘As expected of his chrysoberyl eyes—which are said to possess the power to see the truth—he knows exactly who his enemies are.’

 

If the Crown Prince intends to nip a future rebellion in the bud, then I suppose I should change my attitude too.

 

“Since Your Highness does not wish for the crown princess to come from Schpern House, does that command mean I should uncover Lady Eliade’s weaknesses?”

 

My eyes gleam like a strategist plotting a conspiracy. Reading my signal, the corners of Ludwig’s mouth tug upward.

 

“An intriguing suggestion, but that’s not my style. I don’t want anyone becoming a sacrificial lamb for political gain.”

 

“I didn’t know Your Highness was so merciful. Then what am I supposed to do?”

 

I stare at Ludwig, completely dumbfounded. He spreads his hands wide with a confident flourish.

 

“I want to discover another crown princess candidate. Partly to disperse the power currently concentrated around Schpern House.”

 

‘So he wants me to hold a Crown Princess audition within the book club? Not a bad idea.’

 

If a crown princess emerges from Schpern House, Franz’s plot to seize the kingdom will become a reality.

 

“I understand what you mean. The sooner you cut away a rotten sprout, the better.”

 

I twist my lips into a wicked smile.

 

Seeing my expression, Ludwig flinches slightly.

 

“You know, with that face right now, you look like a real villain.”

 

Unable to watch any longer, Calix speaks up in a critical tone.

 

“Stop pushing her. Can you not see that Librarian Erika is struggling?”

 

William chimes in, siding with Calix.

 

“He is right. Please reconsider that plan, Your Highness. I will prepare an alternative strategy.”

 

As his two loyal subjects press him, Ludwig opens his eyes wide in mock injury.

 

“She’s struggling? Can’t you see she’s enjoying this plan way more than I am?”

 

Just as the argument among the three men threatens to escalate, I slam my hands on the desk and stand up. Everyone’s eyes instantly snap to me.

 

“Understood. I shall follow Your Highness’s command. In exchange, I will recommend the perfect person who is far better suited for this task than I am. Please allow me to focus entirely on running the book club.”

 

The Crown Prince scratches his chin, ponders for a moment, and then readily agrees.

 

“You decide the format and the method. The important thing is finding another crown princess candidate through the book club.”

 

William asks me with a serious face.

 

“Do you have someone in mind?”

 

I nod confidently. I’ve had the perfect talent in mind for a while now.

 

“Yes. I recommend Lady Rose of House Madison. As the eldest daughter of a grand merchant family, her ability to judge and analyze people is extraordinary. It’s a waste of her talents to have her doing nothing but checking out magic books at the front desk. I will request her to handle the vetting of the crown princess candidates.”

 

“An accurate assessment. Lady Madison’s information-gathering and analytical skills are indeed outstanding. She is an excellent fit.”

 

William nods with a satisfied expression and hands me a document.

 

“I will also help whenever I can find the time. This is the final shortlist of the crown princess candidates.”

 

As I scan the names recorded on the paper, I spot a painfully familiar name.

 

‘Freesia Rubel.’

 

‘What?’

 

My gaze reflexively darts toward the Crown Prince.

 

Did he actually have feelings for Freesia? In the original novel, it said he fell in love at first sight, but from what I’ve observed so far, Ludwig hasn’t shown any particular affection toward her.

 

Meeting my gaze, the Crown Prince merely offers a bittersweet smile. I almost demanded an answer right then and there.

 

‘Why did you put her on the list when you don’t even love her?’

 

But I know it’s a meaningless question. Bringing up love when selecting a crown princess is absurd in itself. It is a strictly political matter, deeply entangled in power and mutual interests.

 

Yet… I didn’t want to see Freesia dragged into a bloody political war.

 

If only I hadn’t interfered, she would have fallen in love with Calix and lived happily. Because of me, Freesia’s life has been completely upended. And now she’s a crown princess candidate? I have to protect her.

 

Maybe that’s the only thing I can do for her now.

 

But even this thought feels like a pathetic attempt at self-satisfaction, a desperate bid to alleviate my own guilt. The moment the thought crosses my mind, my stomach twists in pain.

 

I maintain a calm, unbothered expression to avoid showing any weakness. I can feel Calix’s eyes fixed intently on me. For a brief second, I see his usually composed expression waver.

 

‘This man is far too hyper-sensitive to my expressions. That’s his problem. Please get a grip, Mr. Male Lead. Your female lead is a crown princess candidate. She could be snatched away at any moment! Where did the man from the original novel go—the one who loved Freesia so desperately that he would lay down his life for her?’

 

Honestly, there are times I want to grab Calix by the collar, give him a good shake, and tell him to open his eyes. Sighing inwardly, I check the rest of the list.

 

There were four crown princess candidates in total, including Eliade, Freesia, and daughters from other Marquis and Duke houses. However, the fifth slot at the very bottom was left blank.

 

“The fifth candidate’s name isn’t written here?”

 

At my question, William tilts his head in confusion.

 

“Your Highness, weren’t there only four candidates total?”

 

Ludwig, who had been leaning back relaxed with his legs crossed, straightens his posture.

 

His chrysoberyl eyes, glowing with a vibrant blue intensity, lock directly onto me. It is a gaze so powerful it takes my breath away. It feels unfamiliar and heavy—so much so that it makes me wonder if his usual playful demeanor was nothing but a lie.

 

“She is the crown princess candidate in my heart. You see, I happen to have a romantic streak too.”

 

Before the meaning of the Crown Prince’s words can even sink in, Calix freezes.

 

His expression turns as cold as a sharp blade, and the look he directs at the Crown Prince is laced with deep suspicion.

 

I heard that the bond between Ludwig and Calix began when they were nine years old. Even during the seven years Calix spent fighting monsters on the border following the tragic death of his father, their friendship remained steadfast. Despite his icy demeanor and the sharp remarks he hurled at the Crown Prince, a fierce loyalty lived underneath it all. It was the honor and pride of Reinhardt House, which had protected the kingdom for centuries.

 

But now, for the first time, his eyes have changed. His stubborn faith has vanished, replaced only by a cold, hard distrust.

 

“May I ask who that fifth candidate is?”

 

The look Calix directs at the Crown Prince turns menacing. Noticing this, Ludwig glares back at Calix with equal chill. Their gazes clash tensely in mid-air.

 

William, realizing the severity of the atmosphere, freezes up as well. His face is a roadmap of anxiety as he racked his brain for a way to calm the two men down.

 

‘Ugh, this is driving me crazy.’

 

I’ve seen this exact situation in the original novel. Ludwig tried to force Freesia to become his crown princess, and a furious Calix staged a rebellion.

 

‘Why on earth is that exact scenario playing out right now, except with me at the center of it?! I am seriously going to lose my mind.’

 

Is the Grand Duke getting this angry simply because the Crown Prince considers me a candidate? Angry enough to toss away centuries of family loyalty in a heartbeat?

 

Calix’s feelings toward me feel so overwhelmingly intense that it’s getting hard to bear.

 

‘Please, both of you, just drop it!’

 

Swallowing the urge to scream it out loud, I slam my hand down on the desk with all my might.

 

Thud!

 

The suffocating tension shatters instantly, and all three pairs of eyes snap to me at once. I shout out at the top of my lungs with a bright, energetic voice.

 

“Drinks are on me!”

 

A heavy silence drops over the room. William asks cautiously, as if trying to verify what he just heard.

 

“Librarian Erika, what did you just say?”

 

Even Calix and Ludwig, who had been glaring daggers at each other, drop their intense expressions and look completely bewildered.

 

“What are you paying for, Erika?”

 

I deliberately flash a radiant, innocent smile. When the vibe is this ruined, a little team-building is exactly what’s needed.

 

“I got promoted, so obviously I have to treat everyone! I’ll see you all at 7:00 PM at ‘Angel Wing.’ Now, since I have work to do, would the three of you please step out?”

 

Before they can even formulate a reply, I physically push the three men toward the door by their backs.

 

“You’re throwing us out like this? I am the Crown Prince of this country!”

 

“I am well aware. You are all precious, high-born individuals. However, this happens to be my sacred workplace, and I have leftover duties to finish. I absolutely despise working overtime. So, please. Just. Go.”

 

I shoo them out the door as if chasing away flies.

 

Calix tries to catch the doorframe, a desperate look in his eyes as if he has something urgent to say.

 

“Wait, Erika.”

 

“I’ll see you at Angel Wing, Your Grace. Goodbye.”

 

Without a shred of mercy, I swiftly slam the door shut and click the lock.

 

 

***

 

 

Finally, the hour arrived that every working professional cheers for—the end of the workday. Before opening the main gates of the Royal Library, I turned around and lowered my voice.

 

“So… is everyone ready?”

 

Three figures shrouded in deep, black hooded robes nodded with tense, serious faces. They were William, Madam Marian, and Rose.

 

We cautiously stepped out of the library’s main entrance. The guards stationed at the gates silently saluted us.

 

Leaving the bustling main avenue of the library behind, we slipped into a narrow, dark alleyway.

 

Right then, a rat scurried across our feet. Startled, Rose let out a soft gasp.

 

“Eek!”

 

“Shh! Quiet.”

 

I pressed a finger to my lips. Rose bit her lower lip hard and managed a nod.

 

Breathing a sigh of relief, I looked up at the sky and spotted a bright full moon. The moon was still low, casting a sharp contrast between the moonlit avenue and the shadowed alleys.

 

“Is that the place?”

 

William asked in a grave whisper, after double-checking that the coast was clear.

 

“Yes. That’s it.”

 

Concealed by the darkness, we watched the brightly lit spot just across the main avenue. We exchanged meaningful, intense looks.

 

Our final destination was a pub right on the avenue: Angel Wing.

 

Through its large wooden windows, we could clearly see a boisterous crowd inside, and the faint strains of a lively song leaked out into the night.

 

Peering nervously at the pub, Madam Marian clasped her hands together in hesitation.

 

“I’ve never actually been to a tavern before… Will it be alright?”

 

Rose, already buzzing with excitement, balled her hands into fists, her face flushed.

 

“I’ve wanted to visit one for so long. I’m so excited!”

 

William adjusted his monocle, fixing me with the stern, lecturing gaze of a schoolteacher.

 

“Librarian Erika, when exactly did you start frequenting pubs?”

 

“I came here once before with Grand Duke Reinhardt and the Shadow Knights. The beer here is absolutely spectacular.”

 

The three of them gasped in unison, as if they had rehearsed it.

 

“You went to a pub with the Grand Duke?!”

 

‘Why is everyone so shocked? What’s wrong with a pub? It’s not like we went somewhere illegal.’

 

“Heheh, is everyone prepared?”

 

Letting out a low chuckle, I flashed a wicked smile at the three of them.

 

“Tonight, we drink until we drop. No running away, no excuses.”

 

Even in the darkness, I could see their faces turn pale. Ignoring their dismay, I proudly took the lead toward the pub.

 

As four suspicious figures with faces hidden beneath black hoods walked inside, the eyes of the patrons briefly locked onto us. But the scrutiny was short-lived; everyone quickly went back to drinking and chatting boisterously.

 

I threaded my way toward a table tucked into a corner. William, Madam Marian, and Rose were entirely preoccupied, taking in the sights of the pub with wide, fascinated eyes. A server rushed over to take our order.

 

“Welcome! What can I get for you folks?”

 

“Three draft beers to start, please. And we’ll have the smoked duck for our appetizer.”

 

Seeing how smoothly I handled the order, Madam Marian looked at me with newfound admiration.

 

“My goodness, Erika. I always thought you were such a quiet, gentle soul who only stayed inside the library. You’re actually quite sophisticated. I see you in a whole new light.”

 

Rose’s eyes sparkled with sheer adoration as she looked at me.

 

“I had a feeling ever since you fought with a bow, but Erika, you are truly amazing.”

 

“Oh, come on… It’s really no big deal.”

 

‘Ordering a drink at a bar isn’t exactly a legendary feat. Now I just feel embarrassed.’

 

Meanwhile, William had been staring blankly at the pub, completely lost in a trance. He looked so much like a perennial student who had spent his entire life studying at a desk without ever setting foot in a tavern that I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of pity.

 

“Director, have you really never been to a pub before?”

 

When I spoke to him, William finally snapped out of his daze. Embarrassed, he cleared his throat.

 

“Yes. Alcohol was strictly forbidden at the monastery. And since moving to the capital, I’ve only ever commuted between the royal palace and the library… I simply never had the opportunity to visit a pub.”

 

Hearing that made a surge of righteous indignation boil up inside me. Call it a sense of solidarity between fellow corporate slaves. Before I knew it, I slammed my hand down on the table in frustration.

 

“Seriously?! The Crown Prince is terrible! How could he slave-drive you like that and never once buy you a drink at a pub? He’s nothing but a toxic boss, honestly!”

 

William gave a helpless smile.

 

“It is fine, really. I don’t particularly enjoy drinking. But… what exactly is a ‘toxic boss’?”

 

“Oh, uh, never mind. It’s just an expression. Anyway, I’m just furious on your behalf.”

 

‘Whoops, I got so worked up that modern slang just slipped out.’

 

Just as I was trying to change the subject, the server arrived with our beers, saving me from further explanation.

 

“Wow! It’s here.”

 

“Shall we do a toast?”

 

Just as we were raising our glasses to clink them together, a strange shadow fell over our table.

 

“Starting without us? How incredibly hurtful.”

 

I turned around to find Gilbert and Lloyd. Lloyd gave me a playful wink.

 

“Thank you for inviting us, Goddess of War.”

 

“Ugh, please stop. If you bring up that goddess thing again, I’m kicking you out.”

 

“My goodness, I have committed a mortal sin. Please, spare me from your flaming arrows.”

 

When I threatened him, Lloyd raised both hands in mock surrender and joked around, sending a wave of laughter through our group. Amid the amusement, Rose craned her neck and scanned the room.

 

“But where is the Grand Duke? Didn’t he come with you?”

 

At her question, Gilbert pointed toward the entrance.

 

“Yes, he should be arriving shortly—”

 

Before he could even finish his sentence, the entire pub went dead silent.

 

‘The sudden drop in temperature felt intensely familiar. Seriously, again? The male lead truly has a supernatural talent for killing the vibe.’

 

Calix was walking through the entrance of the pub. His jet-black hair was so dark it felt striking, and his tall, imposing stature radiated an overwhelming aura of intimidation.

 

A sable-fur cloak draped across his broad shoulders fluttered with his steps, revealing the glimpse of a long broadsword beneath it. He looked less like a man out for a casual drink and more like a commander who had just finished a battle and was hunting down the remaining survivors.

 

In every possible way, he did not belong here.

 

He merely scanned the interior of the pub with an indifferent gaze, yet people hurriedly bowed their heads or stared intently into their glasses, terrified of making eye contact. Thanks to that path of pure terror, Calix made it straight to our table without any obstacles.

 

The pub owner approached us, wiping cold sweat from his brow. He bowed repeatedly to Calix, practically groveling.

 

“It is an absolute honor for my family to host you again, Grand Duke Reinhardt.”

 

Calix had never revealed his identity, but a merchant’s intuition was sharp indeed.

 

“If the noise is bothersome, shall I have the patrons quiet down?”

 

“It is fine. Just keep an eye on anyone causing a disruption.”

 

As Calix gave a brief reply, the owner let out a massive sigh of relief and turned away. In an attempt to mend the fractured atmosphere, the mandolin player began plucking a lively tune. Taking that as a cue, the patrons slowly began clinking their glasses and chatting once more.

 

As everyone at our table stood up to show their respect, Calix acknowledged them with a casual nod. Then, he naturally slid into the seat right next to mine.

 

With our numbers growing, the seating had gotten tight, putting his body uncomfortably close to mine. In fact, the solid, firm muscle of his arm pressed right against my shoulder, making me feel incredibly self-conscious.

 

Originally, I had planned an intimate promotion party exclusively for the library staff. But since I had ended up inviting the Crown Prince and Calix, I couldn’t exactly leave out the Shadow Knights. Thankfully, the knights had previously guarded the Royal Library, so they were already acquainted with Madam Marian and Rose.

 

Thanks to the charismatic and highly sociable Lloyd, who immediately began spinning witty tales for Madam Marian and Rose, the table was soon filled with bright laughter.

 

“Duke Reinhardt, when is His Royal Highness arriving?”

 

William lowered his voice, conscious of the surrounding patrons. Only then did I remember the final uninvited guest—or rather, the Crown Prince, whom I had temporarily forgotten about.

 

The mere thought of Ludwig—who possessed a commanding presence easily rivaling Calix’s—showing up at a pub gave me a throbbing headache. I hadn’t thought it through in the heat of the moment when picking the location, but wouldn’t this be an absolute nuisance to the other customers and the owner?

 

‘He isn’t going to show up in his full coronation regalia again, is he?’

 

Calix stared down into his glass, his expression laced with worry.

 

“He mentioned that disguising himself would take some time, so he told me to head out first. The Royal Guard is escorting him, so there shouldn’t be any safety concerns.”

 

“A disguise? We’re just having a drink at a pub, surely he didn’t need to go that far…”

 

William furrowed his brows, his tone turning grave.

 

“His Highness in a disguise… I have a terribly bad feeling about this—”

 

Before William could finish his sentence, his face went pale, and he stared directly at the center of the pub. Curious, I turned around to see someone confidently stepping onto the central stage where the musicians performed.

 

It was a minstrel, with a green hat pulled low over his face.

 

For a minstrel, his physical build was remarkably broad, and his attire was absurdly flashy. Strangely enough, he held a mandolin in his hands—a mandolin that was intricately inlaid with gold leaf along the neck and body, looking exceedingly expensive.

 

The pub patrons clapped and welcomed the minstrel’s sudden appearance. The owner, tilting his head in confusion, approached him cautiously.

 

“I don’t recall hiring a minstrel for tonight. Who might you be?”

 

The minstrel tilted the brim of his hat upward, flashing a smooth, practiced smile. Beneath the pub lights, his vibrant crimson hair and striking chrysoberyl eyes sparkled with life.

 

“T-That person is…?”

 

Rose, recognizing him instantly, pointed a trembling finger.

 

‘Why on earth is the Crown Prince coming out from there?!’

 

While everyone who knew his true identity froze in utter horror, Ludwig smiled serenely and plucked a single string on the mandolin.

 

“I am Galileo, a minstrel who wanders across the continent. I have come tonight to serenade you all with a ballad of love.”

 

The moment the poorly disguised Crown Prince prepared to strum his instrument, Calix and William bolted from their seats like lightning.

 

“What is the meaning of this? I am a simple minstrel!”

 

Calix and William quietly marched up to the stage and grabbed the self-proclaimed minstrel by his broad shoulders. William promptly confiscated the mandolin, while Calix practically dragged the Crown Prince back to our table.

 

Because the two of them had suddenly stormed the stage, projecting an incredibly ominous aura, the musicians and the patrons froze in shock. The entire pub fell deathly silent, save for the desperate, tragic cries of the Crown Prince being hauled away.

 

“W-Wait a minute! This is uncalled for! Let me sing just one song! It’s been my lifelong dream!”

 

Ludwig thrashed and resisted, but Calix and William remained utterly unmoved.

 

“Have you given any thought to the absolute torture the people would endure listening to your singing?”

 

Calix looked down at the Crown Prince with an icy, merciless glare. William let out a heavy sigh, looking profoundly relieved that a massive catastrophe had just been averted.

 

“Have you already forgotten how the servants suffered for days on end when you barricaded yourself in the palace to play the mandolin, claiming to find your inner minstrel? Even the government officials avoided entering the palace due to the horrific noise.”

 

Ludwig slumped into his seat, pouting crossly.

 

“Horrific noise? How dare you insult music that embodies the freedom of my soul.”

 

Feeling a sudden sense of obligation as the host to offer some comfort to the dream-crushed Crown Prince, I stood up and gave a polite bow.

 

“Your Highness, let us simply consider that we have heard your beautiful song and performance. The sentiment alone is deeply moving.”

 

“Are you being sincere, Erika?”

 

Ludwig narrowed his eyes, looking at me with deep suspicion. I simply offered him a bright, sweet smile.

 

‘What, do you think I’d lie to you?’

 

The Shadow Knights, who had already become acquainted with the Crown Prince back in my office, offered him a respectful bow. Lloyd smoothly added, “I look forward to hearing your mandolin performance next time, Your Highness.”

 

‘Man, he really knows how to navigate social dynamics.’

 

However, Madam Marian and Rose looked incredibly restless and uncomfortable now that the Crown Prince had joined the table. I suppose it was their first time interacting so closely with royalty in such a casual setting.

 

‘Even though Ludwig looks incredibly dignified and flawless on the outside, on the inside, he’s just a childish, troublesome older brother figure.’

 

Rose leaned in, whispering anxiously into my ear.

 

“Erika, you didn’t tell me His Highness was coming.”

 

“It just kind of happened. I knew he’d throw a massive tantrum if I didn’t invite him.”

 

To be completely honest, I hadn’t wanted to invite the Crown Prince either. I knew that the moment Ludwig got involved, the gathering would turn into a grand, stifling affair. I just wanted to enjoy a quiet, low-key promotion party.

 

Madam Marian straightened her posture with a solemn expression and formally greeted the prince.

 

“It is an honor to meet you in such an informal setting, Your Royal Highness. I am Marian Lewis, the administrator in charge of the Royal Library’s logistics.”

 

The Crown Prince flashed a charming smile and gave her a playful wink.

 

“Shh. For tonight, I am not the Crown Prince, but a minstrel who sings of love. Please, drink and enjoy yourselves freely.”

 

At the prince’s dazzling smile, Rose’s face flushed bright red.

 

‘Tsk tsk. Don’t fall for the handsome exterior, Rose. It’s a trap.’

 

More drinks were ordered, and three or four plates of appetizers arrived in quick succession. A magnificent feast spread across the table, and everyone raised their glasses, clinking them together in high spirits.

 

“To Librarian Erika’s promotion!”

 

With Ludwig leading the toast, everyone drained their glasses in a single, breathless gulp. While I thoroughly enjoy downing a drink, I was pleasantly surprised to see that Madam Marian and Rose could really hold their liquor.

 

After a few rounds of drinks, the atmosphere at the table grew thoroughly warm and cheerful. Remarkably, despite the vast differences in status and rank among the people gathered, there wasn’t a single hint of awkwardness.

 

Madam Marian and Gilbert got locked into a passionate debate regarding knitting techniques. As I listened in, I learned that Gilbert’s personal hobby was knitting during his breaks. Lloyd and Rose became fast friends within five minutes of meeting, immediately trading the most exclusive gossip circulating through high society.

 

Meanwhile, Ludwig slung an arm around William’s shoulder, the two of them clinking glasses and drinking back-to-forth. It was as if William was making up for a lifetime of never visiting a pub; his alcohol tolerance was absolutely staggering.

 

The chilled glasses were refreshing, and the laughter of the people I cared about was incredibly warm. My heart felt so full and cozy that a silly, helpless smile kept tugging at my lips.

 

“Erika, you look happy.”

 

Calix was watching me intently, as if determined not to miss a single expression crossing my face.

 

“Grand Duke, I know I’m pretty, but you can stop staring now. You’re going to burn a hole right through my face.”

 

I said primly, hiding the lower half of my face behind my glass. The corners of Calix’s lips curved upward into a soft smile.

 

“I must admire your boundless confidence.”

 

“Yes, yes. I practically live on confidence. Hmph.”

 

‘Yup, the typical prickly male lead personality isn’t going anywhere.’

 

I snorted and shot back a witty retort.

 

The low, clear sound of Calix’s laughter brushed against my ears. It had been a very long time since I had seen him look so genuinely amused.

 

“Hmm? What’s so amusing over here? I want in on the joke.”

 

The sharp-eared Ludwig slung his arm around Calix’s shoulder, his voice slightly slurred from the alcohol. William, who had been matching him drink for drink, looked completely sober, his complexion unchanged.

 

Right then, a roaring toast and boisterous laughter erupted from the neighboring table.

 

“To the Goddess of War who protects Ruberia!”

 

“Glory to the Goddess!”

 

Three knights clad in armor and swords were vigorously clinking their pewter mugs together.

 

‘Huh? Those faces look awfully familiar. Ah, I remember now. They were the knights at the front lines fighting off the monsters during the tournament.’

 

Intrigued by their thundering toasts, the surrounding patrons began to tune into their conversation.

 

“Knights, did you truly witness the Goddess of War with your own eyes?”

 

When a flush-faced, middle-aged man asked the question, a young knight nodded vigorously, his expression filled with overwhelming emotion as he recalled the event.

 

“Of course I did! I fought right alongside Her Divinity on that very battlefield. The sight of her charging like the wind, unleashing a barrage of flaming arrows—it was the most beautiful, breathtakingly powerful thing I have ever witnessed! I will never forget it.”

 

‘Aaagh! Please, forget it! I am about to curl up and shrivel into nonexistence from pure embarrassment.’

 

I buried my face in my hands, letting out a silent scream.

 

‘I lowered my guard. I thought the ‘Goddess of War’ thing was just a passing fad!’

 

Like dropping a match onto oil, the pub erupted into a frenzy of cheers and burning excitement. Patrons raised their glasses high into the air, competing to shout the loudest.

 

“To the Goddess of War!”

 

Seemingly swept up in the fiery enthusiasm of the crowd, Ludwig prepared to vault out of his seat.

 

Terrified, I used every ounce of my strength to grab onto his arm and hang on for dear life. If I could have grabbed onto his pant leg to stop him, I would have. I locked eyes with him, desperately trying to convey my silent plea.

 

‘Please, Your Royal Highness. I beg of you, control yourself.’

 

Perhaps my sheer desperation actually reached him, because the Crown Prince stopped moving.

 

‘Good. If you have even a shred of a conscience, you’ll stay seated.’

 

William watched him with a tense, rigid posture, while Calix glared at the prince with an explicitly threatening aura. It was a gaze that promised absolute violence if Ludwig took so much as a single step forward.

 

But the moment I saw the corners of Ludwig’s mouth twist into a sly grin, I cursed my own foolishness.

 

‘In the original novel, Ludwig was a villain whose entire personality revolved around doing the exact opposite of what he was told. How could I have forgotten that?!’

 

Like the wind, Ludwig leaped right onto his chair and suddenly began plucking his mandolin.

 

With every strike of the strings, a crisp, crystal-clear melody echoed throughout the pub. The patrons, who had been passionately drinking and chanting praises to the Goddess of War, froze instantly.

 

Ludwig closed his eyes gently and began to sing. A remarkably clear, beautiful tenor voice flowed from his lips.

 

“Unleashing arrows of brilliant flame, striking down the wicked foe, the fierce, radiant Goddess of War. Her divine might guides my destiny. Oh, my sweet, celestial Goddess, lead me to the highest peaks, protect me for all eternity.*

 

Everyone listened, completely spellbound by Ludwig’s song. Even I forgot the sheer horror of reality for a brief moment, utterly captivated by his gorgeous performance and voice.

 

“Whoaaa!”

 

“Magnificent performance!”

 

The moment the song concluded, thunderous applause, cheers, and loud whistles filled every corner of the pub. Someone even tossed their hat into the air.

 

Calix and William looked thoroughly stunned by the prince’s genuine vocal talent, while Madam Marian and Rose were so moved that tears welled in their eyes. Lloyd and Gilbert were already linking shoulders with the neighboring knights, cheering along.

 

Ludwig looked down at me, his gaze incredibly deep and soulful.

 

“This piece is dedicated entirely to you.”

 

“Your Highness, that was truly incredi—”

 

Before I could even finish my sentence, Ludwig pointed a dramatic finger right at me and bellowed at the top of his lungs.

 

“The Goddess of War has descended right here!”

 

‘In my entire life, I don’t think I have ever felt such a potent surge of homicidal intent.’

 

At this exact moment, I felt a profound, deep wave of empathy for Franz’s rebellion. Ludwig must have pushed Franz to his absolute limit at some point, exactly like this!

 

I bolted up from my seat, fully prepared to grab the Crown Prince by the collar, but it was a fatal miscalculation. The knights, recognizing my face instantly, cheered wildly and swarmed our table, completely surrounding us.

 

“The Goddess of War is here!”

 

“Oh, what an absolute honor!”

 

Swept up in the frenzy, the crowd let out a roar so deafening it threatened to tear the roof off the pub. They looked ready to hoist me onto their shoulders and toss me into the air at any second.

 

Right then, a heavy black cloak fluttered past, completely shielding my field of vision. A large, powerful hand wrapped securely around my shoulder, pulling me tightly into a solid chest.

 

“Step back.”

 

At Calix’s warning—which sliced through the air colder than a sharpened blade—the knights instinctively recoiled.

 

The manic laughter drained from the patrons’ faces, replaced instantly by sheer terror. Confronted with the flashing, piercing blue glare of the Grand Duke, the crowd lowered their heads in fear, desperately avoiding his line of sight.

 

Calix turned a freezing gaze toward the Crown Prince.

 

“The air in here is foul. We are leaving to get some fresh air.”

 

At the declaration—which sounded entirely like an ultimatum—Ludwig’s expression darkened. His gaze remained pinned to me, locked within Calix’s tight embrace.

 

Calix issued a sharp, unyielding command to the Shadow Knights.

 

“Guard the entrance. Do not let a single soul out.”

 

The Shadow Knights gave a resounding military salute, promptly escorting Calix and me toward the exit. The moment we stepped outside the pub, the heavy wooden doors slammed shut behind us and locked.

 

‘Wait, what? Did he just place the entire pub under lockdown? Is he allowed to do that?!’

 

Calix kept me held close against him as we walked into the night. As the crisp, cool night air brushed against my cheeks, my dizziness faded, and my mind cleared.

 

Only then did my temporarily frozen heart begin to hammer erratically against my ribs.

 

Behind us, the music inside the tavern resumed, followed by the muffled sounds of toasts and laughter.

 

I turned my head slightly, looking up at Calix’s sharp profile.

 

The striking bridge of his nose, the deep shadows falling beneath his long eyelashes, and the firm, beautifully defined contours of his tightly set lips.

 

‘Those lips had touched mine. Why on earth am I suddenly remembering the exact sensation from back then, inside the tent during the tournament?’

 

The vivid memory of craving his lips out of a pure, desperate instinct to survive rushed back, making my heart race frantically.

 

‘Hadn’t he used those exact lips to swear a knight’s oath to me?’

 

An intoxicating urge flared within me—a desire to grab his wrist, pull him into the pitch-black shadows of the alleyway, and pin him against the brick wall.

 

‘If I caught him off guard like that, what kind of expression would this arrogant knight make?’

 

I wanted to press my lips against his, drowning out the deep, rumbling voice that would surely ask me what on earth I thought I was doing.

 

I want to see that arrogant, merciless face flush crimson. I want to see him lose control of his ragged breath because of me, burning up with a feverish passion until he completely unravels.

 

“Grand Duke…”

 

Slowly, I leaned in toward him.

 

But Calix’s hand immediately caught me, steadying my body just as I was about to topple over.

 

“You are heavily intoxicated, to the point where you can barely stand. Are you alright, Erika?”

 

Calix examined me with a deeply worried look.

 

“Yes, I’m fine… Hiccup!”

 

‘Ah. That’s what I get for harboring such wicked thoughts about ravaging the pure-hearted Grand Duke. A sudden bout of hiccups.’

 

As my shoulders heaved with another hiccup, Calix gently patted my back. He then guided me over to a wooden bench near the pub entrance, sitting me down before draping his own cloak over my shoulders.

 

“Wait here for a moment. I will bring something to warm you up.”

 

He disappeared into the pub and returned shortly after, holding two steaming mugs.

 

“It is warm tea. Drinking this should help sober you up a bit.”

 

We sat side by side on the bench, sipping our tea. The night wind was cool, but the warmth of the mug in my hands was comforting.

 

Calix silently gazed up at the night sky. Beyond his view, countless stars twinkled across the deep blue expanse.

 

“…The stars were much clearer at the northern border. You could even see the Milky Way flowing across the night sky.”

 

It was the first time I had ever heard him speak of his life at the border. Even in the original novel, his time there was merely summarized with a brief sentence: ‘Calix fought enemy forces and handled the occasional appearance of monsters in the north.’

 

It had been a staggering seven years. A long, grueling, and heartbreaking stretch of time during which an innocent eighteen-year-old boy had to transform into a man bearing the heavy weight of an entire realm’s safety.

 

“What was it like for you at the border, Your Grace? I mean, when you weren’t actively fighting in battles.”

 

Rather than stories of a bloody, desperate battlefield, I found myself wanting to know about his ordinary, day-to-day life. Calix turned to look at me, his eyes filled with a quiet surprise at my question.

 

“To ask such a thing… you are the first, Erika.”

 

“Am I?”

 

“Everyone else only ever wishes to hear of my exploits on the battlefield.”

 

A soft smile graced his lips as he began to share snippets of his life at the border. His voice was gentle and serene, like a low lullaby sung to a child.

 

“I would share meals with the local residents, and sometimes plow the frozen earth to help them with their farming. I have even planted seed potatoes with my own hands.”

 

“Really? A Duke actually farmed potatoes?”

 

When I asked in sheer disbelief, Calix gave a thoroughly solemn nod.

 

“Indeed. I harvested the potatoes I planted and cooked with them. I am quite capable of making potato soup and roasted potatoes.”

 

I paused to picture him crouching down, diligently peeling potatoes.

 

‘Oh, that is actually adorable. I am definitely making him do that for me next time.’

 

Calix’s gaze wandered back up to the night sky, looking wistful, as if he genuinely missed the sky he used to look at from the border.

 

“In the winter, I would venture into the forest with the knights to gather firewood. We chopped down far more trees than the number of monsters we killed. We had to distribute firewood to the residents, you see—the winters at the border were unforgivingly harsh. The knights often complained, joking that they had been drafted as lumberjacks rather than soldiers.”

 

“Was it not difficult for you, Your Grace?”

 

“I actually found peace in chopping wood. Sometimes, I would venture into the forest alone just to pass the time. I would sit upon a tree stump I had felled and remain there for a very long time.”

 

“What did you think about?”

 

His eyes slowly drifted down from the starry sky, locking onto me. It felt as though a star was descending right before my eyes.

 

“I thought about the life of a tree. The birds chirping in the morning, the sound of the wind, the patter of the rain… I wondered what a tree might think about in the morning sunlight after a violent storm has passed.”

 

His voice was as hushed and still as a snow-covered winter forest.

 

“Sometimes, looking at the felled trees, I thought that… I would rather become a tree myself.”

 

In my mind’s eye, I could see the silhouette of a younger Calix sitting alone on a stump in that pristine, white winter forest. Just imagining him enduring that profound loneliness all by himself made my heart ache with a sharp, stinging pain.

 

Like the lyrics of a wandering minstrel, his story continued to unfold.

 

He spoke of the days spent standing atop high stone walls, lighting a bonfire as he waited for the dawn to break. He painted a picture of the Milky Way flowing above his head, the early morning light breaking through, the blazing summer sun, and the blinding flurries of snow and rain.

 

He had crossed the threshold of life and death through countless battles, yet he quietly confessed that those moments were when he felt most like himself.

 

Because he had a home to return to and people he was determined to protect, he calmly reflected that his seven years at the border hadn’t been so bad after all.

 

“It was a harsh place, but it was equally free. I could act as I pleased, and go wherever my sword took me. There was no need for empty pleasantries or suffocating noble etiquette.”

 

It was a sentiment perfectly fitting for him—a man who utterly despised unnecessary formalities and the cumbersome manners of high society.

 

I let out a soft, relaxed smile. Hearing about his life at the border finally put my mind at ease.

 

“I’m glad.”

 

“About what?”

 

“I’m glad to know that your seven years at the border weren’t filled entirely with misery and suffering.”

 

Calix gave a tender smile. It was as warm as a sunbeam, making me want to stare at it forever.

 

“Yes. It is a relief. Just as it is a relief that I returned and met you like this.”

 

‘Wait, hold on. This line is dangerous.’

 

This male lead never misses an opportunity to create a romantic atmosphere. He really doesn’t give me a single moment to lower my guard. I scrambled to change the subject.

 

“Hearing your stories makes the border sound rather wonderful. I’d love to visit it sometime.”

 

I intentionally spoke with a bright, energetic tone. Calix looked at me with an amused, questioning expression.

 

“Are you certain? The border is a brutal, unforgiving territory. It is difficult for anyone to endure it for long.”

 

“But it’s free, and you don’t have to constantly walk on eggshells around anyone. I can easily handle that much.”

 

“Hmm. And what exactly do you plan to do at the border? Winter consumes half the year there, and fierce winds howl through every season.”

 

His eyes locked onto me, shimmering with genuine intrigue. Propping my chin in my hand, I looked up at the night sky, pondering the idea.

 

“Hmm… I want to build a library. You mentioned it’s incredibly windy there, right? How does ‘The Library of the Wind’ sound?”

 

“A library… you say?”

 

“Yes. Children, farmers, local women, and soldiers alike can come to the library after a grueling day, holding a book tightly to their chests as they head home. Each person can soothe the weariness of their day and dream of the future through reading. And I will be the librarian who protects the Library of the Wind.”

 

Swept up in my own excitement, I laid out my grand imagination before him. Suddenly worried that he might scoff at how childish it sounded, I peeked at his reaction.

 

Calix sat utterly motionless, a dazed, dreamy look washing over his face. It was a rare, completely defenseless expression. For a moment, he looked like the young duke who had first stepped onto the border—as if he had traveled back in time to become that eighteen-year-old boy.

 

“That is a beautiful thought. I have never once considered such a thing. It sounds almost like… a dream.”

 

Calix spoke the word ‘dream’ with extreme care, as if handling something incredibly fragile that might shatter at the slightest touch.

 

“What is your dream, Your Grace?”

 

The world I originally came from was a place overflowing with dreams. Everyone nurtured a dream since childhood, and during adolescence, that dream changed dozens of times. As adults, people compromised with reality and abandoned them, or perhaps discovered entirely new ones.

 

But in this romance novel world, asking the male lead about his dream felt entirely bizarre. After all, a male lead’s ultimate dream is supposed to be achieving a happily-ever-after with the female lead.

 

“…My dream is to bring prosperity to House Reinhardt and successfully pass the mantle of the next patriarch to Michael.”

 

I shook my head firmly.

 

“That isn’t a dream; that’s just a duty or an obligation. Not something boring and rigid like that—I mean a dream meant strictly for you, Calix.”

 

Calix looked utterly perplexed.

 

“Why should I even think about such a dream?”

 

“Because that is what keeps a person alive.”

 

“Then what is your dream, Erika?”

 

“That is a secret.”

 

When I replied with a refreshed, playful smirk, Calix’s brows knit together.

 

“You give me a whole lecture about dreams only to tell me yours is a secret?”

 

His voice carried a hint of genuine exasperation, bordering on amusement.

 

“They say that if you reveal your dream too early, it won’t come true. I’ll tell you when the time is right.”

 

‘After all, my actual dream is to avoid the guillotine and safely return to my real home.’

 

Since they say you can’t spit on a smiling face, I kept up my beaming grin until Calix ultimately shook his head in resignation. A faint smile had found its way back to his lips.

 

“I find myself quite fond of that Library of the Wind you spoke of.”

 

“Do you?”

 

“If I ever return to the border, I would like to build such a library. I have left nothing but destruction and slaughter in that place. I left nothing behind. But a library… a library is something that can be passed down to future generations for centuries.”

 

Listening to him, I nodded in agreement.

 

As a librarian, I too had once harbored a grand, ambitious dream of founding my own little library. But after running the numbers—calculating the cost of the land, construction fees, city permits, annual book budgets, and labor costs—I promptly decided to leave that dream as nothing more than a dream.

 

I suppose I should offer some sharp, realistic advice to this naive gentleman who only knows how to swing a sword and knows absolutely nothing about real estate.

 

“I hate to rain on your parade, but building a library requires an astronomical amount of funding. And you need land, first and foremost.”

 

Calix scratched his chin, deep in thought.

 

“Well, I own several duchy estates up at the border. I can simply build it on one of those lands.”

 

“Pardon? You own land at the border?”

 

“His Majesty bestowed the territory upon me as a reward for driving back the enemy forces and eradicating the monsters.”

 

Calix stated nonchalantly, as if it were the most trivial matter in the world.

 

‘Good grief. This Grand Duke is a force to be reckoned with.’

 

Exactly how much property does this young man own? Once the border regions begin developing in the future, the real estate appreciation alone is going to be staggering.

 

While I was busy mapping out an ambitious real estate development plan in my head for land that wasn’t even mine—

 

“Erika.”

 

His low, resonant voice instantly pulled me out of my thoughts.

 

Feeling a sudden wave of tension, I looked up at him.

 

His hand reached out, gently brushing a stray lock of hair from my forehead before tracing down my cheek and chin, slowly pulling away. His striking blue eyes reflected my image perfectly, shining brightly like the stars in the night sky.

 

“If I return to the border one day… will you become the librarian for my library?”

 

It was a promise of the future. A promise that could never, ever be fulfilled. I couldn’t bring myself to say a word. Because in his future, I wouldn’t exist.

 

As his quiet gaze waited for my response, a small, agonizing crack began to form deep within my heart.

 

“Your Grace, I…”

 

The words choked in my throat.

 

“I cannot share a future with you. I cannot stand atop the fortress walls with you to watch the sunrise. We cannot sit across from each other, peeling potatoes to make soup. And we cannot hold hands, sitting together on a tree stump in a snow-covered winter forest. I cannot dream a dream with you.”

 

I knew I had to say something, anything, but my vision suddenly began to blur. Determined not to show him my tears, I clenched my fists so hard my nails dug sharply into my palms.

 

At the same time, a hollow laugh threatened to bubble up.

 

He and I hadn’t even shared a simple declaration of love. We were nothing more than a male lead and a supporting character. So why did the cruel words I had to deliver feel like a volley of arrows piercing straight through my own chest? Why did I find myself wishing my tongue would rot away so I wouldn’t have to utter a single word? Why do I…

 

I tried to turn my face away to avoid his gaze, but Calix’s large hands gently cupped my face, forcing me to look at him. He stared down at me with a gaze full of raw desperation.

 

“Erika. Look at me.”

 

Right then, a voice calling out for me shattered the silence from behind.

 

“My precious librariaaan~ Erikaaa~!”

 

It was Ludwig’s voice, thoroughly slurred from the alcohol.

 

‘Seriously, that Crown Prince is undoubtedly a savior sent directly to ruin my life.’

 

He occasionally turns my path into a complete disaster, but at the exact same time, he always manages to disrupt things at the absolute necessary moment.

 

Letting out a heavy sigh, I glanced back toward the pub.

 

Ludwig was throwing a tantrum trying to storm out of the building, while the Shadow Knights were practically risking their lives to block the doorway.

 

“How dare you bar my path?!”

 

“We shall repay our disloyalty with death, Your Highness! But you absolutely cannot leave right now!”

 

Gilbert shouted with a tragic, solemn voice, looking fully prepared to lay down his life on the spot. Lloyd, on the other hand, flashed a sly, smooth smile as he tried to coax the prince.

 

“Your Highness, I know of an absolutely spectacular establishment. Please, allow me to escort you there instead.”

 

Ludwig, practically dying of curiosity, pressed down on their shoulders as he desperately tried to peer past them out the door.

 

“What on earth is going on out there? What are you hiding from me? What are those two doing alone?!”

 

I hurriedly bolted upright from the bench. Honestly, I wanted nothing more than to run straight back inside the pub to escape this suffocating moment.

 

“We should quickly head back inside before His Highness causes a massive scene. We need to make sure Madame Marian and Lady Rose get home safely too.”

 

“You haven’t answered my question, Erika.”

 

Calix said, his voice dropping into a cold, motionless chill as he remained seated.

 

‘Ah, I forgot again.’

 

This Grand Duke possesses a terrifying streak of possessiveness and a massive tendency to hold a grudge.

 

I let out a forced, boisterous laugh, taking a slow, subtle step backward.

 

“Haha! What did you say again? I think the alcohol is finally hitting me, I can’t quite remember…”

 

The exact moment I turned around to sprint toward the pub, he stood up and caught my arm. Guided by a firm yet remarkably gentle pull, I tumbled straight into his chest. My breath hitched as his handsome face hovered mere inches from mine.

 

Calix wore a faint, mesmerizing smile as he reached out to brush my bangs aside. Then, he gently pressed his lips against my forehead. It was a soft, incredibly warm kiss, light as a feather.

 

Before I could even open my mouth to protest, he flashed an enchanting smile, his eyes curving beautifully.

 

“I will wait. Until you are ready to give me an answer. Consider this a token for my patience.”

 

Suddenly, a chorus of gasps and startled shrieks erupted from the pub entrance. Even without turning around, I knew exactly what was happening. The Crown Prince was undoubtedly yelling, Rose was letting out a squeal bordering on pure ecstasy, and the Shadow Knights were frozen in utter shock.

 

“A-Aren’t you being a bit too presumptuous, Your Grace?!”

 

I desperately wanted to scold him, but for some infuriating reason, my face kept burning hotter and hotter.

 

‘Come on, Erika. You’ve had plenty of relationship experience in your past life. You are way too old to be blushing over a silly forehead kiss.’