Chapter 19

“The reason all this work is falling only on me… must be because I’m just too cute.”

 

Staring intently at the mountain of paperwork piled high on my desk, I muttered to myself with utmost seriousness. It was absolutely not because I had lost my mind from having too many documents to process.

 

‘What kind of wealth and honor was I even chasing when I proposed starting this book club? Now I’m suffering the consequences.’

 

Since it had even received investment and backing from the royal palace, there was no running away.

 

Since I was the one who chose to take charge, I had to review the overall progress of the tasks.

 

I drafted the book club curriculum report and scheduled the classes. I sent out invitations to the scholars and professors who would teach, and met with the prospective faculty members for several rounds of interviews and meetings afterward.

 

In the meantime, I spent my spare moments sending invitation letters to the young ladies who would become members of the book club and checking their replies. Before I knew it, a week had flown by in the blink of an eye.

 

Working overtime every single day made me question whether I had actually transmigrated at all. It felt like only the background had changed to a romance fantasy setting, while I was doing the exact same job as a librarian.

 

“Ah, if I die of overwork like this, will I go back to my original world? No, maybe I just need to read a book set in modern times while working overtime.”

 

Since I had transmigrated while reading <Secret Love at the Royal Library>, wouldn’t I return to reality if I read something like <Hot Overtime at the Library>?

 

“Erika, what have you been muttering to yourself this whole time? Are you alright?”

 

Before I even noticed her entry, Rose was standing across the desk with her arms crossed, observing me intently.

 

‘She doesn’t think I’ve completely lost my mind from being buried in work, does she?’

 

I forced a cheerful smile, pretending everything was fine.

 

“I was just talking to myself. But when did you get here, Rose?”

 

“Just now. No matter how much I knocked, there was no answer, so I was worried something had happened. But…”

 

Rose scanned my complexion and murmured, “You really have been having a hard time. You poor thing…”

 

She firmly grasped my hands and sent me a look of genuine, heartfelt sympathy.

 

“If you’re having a tough time, you can always lean on me. I am your precious friend, after all.”

 

Touched by her tender words, a wave of emotion washed over me.

 

“You’re the only one I can count on, Rose. Then, can you please rescue me from this place?”

 

‘Because this place is an overtime prison.’

 

I felt like calling the Capital Guard to break me out and take me back to my official residence.

 

Rose subtly let go of my hands, avoiding my desperate gaze.

 

“That falls outside the scope of my duties, Chief Librarian.”

 

As expected, she kept a strict line between public and private matters.

 

Then, as if suddenly remembering something, Rose snapped her fingers.

 

“Ah, I almost forgot. A guest has arrived to see you.”

 

“A guest? Who is it?”

 

“Lady Reina of the Douglas family.”

 

The moment I heard that name, I reflexively stood up from my seat.

 

“Lady Douglas? I was waiting because she hadn’t sent a reply yet. Is she outside right now?”

 

Rose gently patted my shoulder as if to calm me down.

 

“Yes, I told her to wait in the drawing room. But did Lady Douglas request an interview beforehand?”

 

“No. There was no word at all. Did she come to see me about the book club?”

 

The other young ladies had expressed their intention to attend the book club through letters. This was the first time someone had come to visit in person.

 

Rose tapped her palm with the folding fan she always carried.

 

“I only spoke with her briefly, but she is no ordinary person. Although the Douglas Viscount family has fallen into ruin, it is said they were highly renowned for their scholarships long ago. Generation after generation, they produced brilliant scholars and talented officials.”

 

“I see. Thank you for the information. I’ll keep that in mind.”

 

‘When on earth did she finish such a perfect investigation into the Douglas family?’

 

Admiring Rose’s precise handling of work once again, I nodded.

 

“Then, I shall bring Lady Douglas in, Chief Librarian.”

 

Lately, Rose spoke casually and comfortably when the two of us were alone, but she used formal, polite language whenever it came to official business.

 

Rose, who was about to open the door and leave, stopped in her tracks and turned around. She offered a piece of advice with an unusually sharp glint in her eyes.

 

“Persuade Lady Douglas. If you win her heart, you will be able to lead the book club to success.”

 

 

***

 

 

As I waited for Lady Douglas with a tense and anxious heart, a knock soon echoed through the room. I quickly ran over to open the door and welcomed her with a bright smile.

 

“Welcome, Lady Douglas.”

 

Reina Douglas.

 

She was in her mid-twenties, possessing a quiet, calm, and unshakable aura. She wore a simple, unadorned navy dress, and her long, light brown hair was neatly tied back into a single tail.

 

Rarely for a young lady, she wore glasses. Behind the gold frames, her blue eyes gleamed with a striking intelligence.

 

Reina elegantly held the skirt of her dress and curtsied. Her etiquette was flawless.

 

“Please forgive my unannounced visit, Chief Librarian Diel.”

 

“Not at all. It is a pleasure to meet you. Please make yourself comfortable while I prepare some tea.”

 

I guided Reina to the sofa, then retrieved the tea leaves and cups from the cabinet. After placing the tea leaves into the teapot, I poured hot water over them. A subtle, sweet aroma began to drift through the office.

 

While the tea was brewing, I stole a glance at Reina.

 

Though it was completely different from my personal taste, my overly lavish office usually caused anyone who entered to look around in surprise or interest. Yet, she sat perfectly straight, her gaze fixed directly ahead.

 

Handing her a teacup filled with a golden-hued black tea, I offered a polite greeting.

 

“I hope it suits your taste.”

 

Reina held the teacup in one hand and supported the saucer with the other. The way she took in the aroma first before slowly savoring the tea was remarkably elegant.

 

Setting her teacup down, she offered a faint smile.

 

“The tea tastes wonderful. The fragrance is very noble.”

 

“You flatter me. Thank you.”

 

I also sipped my tea, continuing to observe her from behind my cup without making it too obvious.

 

Though she came from a ruined viscount family, her etiquette did not falter by even a hair’s breadth. It bore the hallmark of a strict upbringing, fitting for a family renowned for its scholarship.

 

The information that she had been living a difficult life after the passing of Viscount Douglas seemed to be true. While sending the book club invitation, I had learned that she lived in the commoner district.

 

Her fingertips were rough, suggesting she lacked a maid to attend to her. Her dress was modest and unembroidered, and not a single common earring, necklace, or hair ornament could be seen on her.

 

Yet, she showed no signs of shrinking back; she remained calm and resolute, her deep blue eyes sparkling with intellect.

 

Maintaining the most amiable smile possible, I initiated the conversation first.

 

“Lady Douglas, thank you for visiting the Royal Library. What brings you to see me today?”

 

“I shall speak frankly.”

 

Her blue eyes locked onto me with unwavering resolve.

 

“For what purpose are you opening this book club?”

 

Caught off guard by her sharp, piercing question, I lost my words for a moment.

 

“Pardon? What do you mean by that…?”

 

Before I could even find the words to reply, Reina continued calmly.

 

“Upon reviewing the book club’s curriculum, I noticed there were no subjects on etiquette or accomplishments fitting for a noble lady. Instead, it closely resembles the curriculum of the Academy. Of course, learning such subjects is not inherently bad. It would be quite excellent for satisfying one’s intellectual vanity.”

 

Her cold and cynical critique sparked a sudden wave of defensiveness within me.

 

“Intellectual vanity? Your words are rather harsh.”

 

Suppressing the urge to raise my voice, I took a breath to compose myself.

 

“I established this book club to provide a small measure of help for young ladies to nurture their dreams and choose new paths. Please do not misunderstand my pure intentions.”

 

I could feel Reina’s icy gaze evaluating me. It was a sharp, piercing look, as if she were trying to discern whether my sincerity was genuine or fake.

 

“When noble young men learn those subjects at the Academy, it is to enter politics and become officials in the future, or to lead their own territories. In other words, it is essential knowledge for them. However, for poor noble ladies who possess no territory, and who have made their social debuts but failed to find a marriage prospect, it is utterly useless knowledge.”

 

Reina caught her breath for a moment, her eyes narrowing. A faint trace of resentment flickered in her sharp gaze.

 

“You said you wanted them to nurture their dreams? Do you truly not realize that those are hollow dreams? How do you intend to take responsibility for the despair they will feel when they dream of things that can never be realized?”

 

Though her voice had risen with emotion, her posture remained perfectly composed, and her glasses caught the light, gleaming coldly. Yet, why did it feel like I could sense bitterness and frustration hidden behind those lenses?

 

Her refusal to even entertain the idea of having a dream must stem from the environment she was trapped in.

 

Viscount Douglas had been a respected scholar of benevolent character. However, he had loaned his business funds to a relative, only to be defrauded, after which he fell ill and passed away in vain.

 

At the time, Reina had been betrothed to a young master from another family. With the passing of the head of the household, the family’s fortunes plummeted rapidly, and she received a unilateral notice breaking off the engagement. Even her relatives turned their backs on her, and I had heard that Reina was currently living a difficult life while supporting her elderly mother.

 

Lifting my teacup to moisten my throat, I looked back at her calmly.

 

“I, too, come from a viscount family, and I fled here to escape a forced marriage.”

 

Perhaps startled by my sudden revelation, Reina’s shoulders flinched slightly.

 

‘It’s only natural.’

 

I swallowed a bitter smile. After all, the image of Erika Diel circulating in public circles was that of the Chief Librarian of the Royal Library, or a glamorous, almost surreal figure akin to a goddess of war shooting flaming arrows.

 

“My family had no eldest son, and my cousin legally usurped our territory and title. At that time, I felt a deep sense of despair and helplessness. I was furious at the fact that I couldn’t protect anything with my own strength.”

 

Pausing my words, I looked down at my hands for a moment. The backs of my hands were rough, and the tips of my nails were stained black with ink. From practicing archery every single day, my palms were covered in calluses and scrapes from the bowstring.

 

I was not ashamed of these rough, calloused hands. On the contrary, I was proud of them. Though it wasn’t complete, these were the hands that had carved out a path for me to survive on my own. And they would continue to do so in the future.

 

“Therefore… I wanted to make sure no one else would have to go through what I did. That is why I resolved to create a book club that could help young ladies protect themselves.”

 

The icy expression on Reina’s face softened slightly.

 

“I understand your noble intentions well, Chief Librarian. However, what I am asking about is what happens after the book club.”

 

She knitted her brows slightly as she continued.

 

“In Ruberia, there is no path for a poor noble lady to become independent other than marriage. We cannot farm or engage in commerce like commoners. How exactly will this book club be of help to these young ladies?”

 

Maintaining a gentle smile, I looked at Reina warmly.

 

I hadn’t told anyone yet. Not Her Majesty the Queen, nor Calix, nor the Crown Prince, nor even the library staff—none of them knew the true purpose of this book club.

 

Because the young ladies who would lead the book club themselves needed to be the very first to know. Only when I conveyed my true sincerity to them, and they invested their hearts into it, could the real objective be achieved.

 

“My true purpose… is to contribute to the future of Ruberia.”

 

As if it were an answer she had never anticipated, Reina asked back with wide eyes, “The future of the kingdom… you say?”

 

“The knowledge these young ladies gain in the book club will nurture the dreams and change the futures of dozens, even hundreds of children.”

 

“The dreams of children?”

 

Reina murmured, as if unable to believe my words. I stated my conviction with a serious gaze.

 

“The young ladies who complete the book club will go on to teach the children of Ruberia. Of course, provided they wish to do so. However, if it becomes possible, my ultimate goal… is to establish a primary school where anyone, regardless of their status, can receive an education.”

 

Yes, this was the real goal.

 

The poor commoner children of Ruberia only learned basic literacy before they had to work to make a living. Just like young Nella, who labored to feed her family.

 

“I believe that the path to Ruberia’s advancement ultimately lies in education. And noble ladies like yourself will be able to make a grand contribution to that cause.”

 

I emphasized each and every word with strength.

 

Reina lowered her gaze to the floor, her expression filled with confusion. Her eyelashes trembled faintly.

 

“When my own future is so uncertain… how can you ask me to take responsibility for the future of the kingdom’s children?”

 

“We will provide benefits, such as a salary, to the young ladies employed as teachers. So that they can take responsibility for their own lives. Above all, I hope that the young ladies can nurture their own dreams alongside the children they teach. I know this is a difficult task for a noble lady. However, I hope you can view it as a noble endeavor for the children of Ruberia.”

 

It would be a venture requiring immense manpower, time, and effort, not to mention substantial funding. Securing those funds would be a problem I’d have to keep wrestling with moving forward.

 

“Lady Reina.”

 

I called her name with earnest sincerity. As if drawn by it, she lifted her head.

 

“Please lend me your strength. This is not a task I can accomplish alone. I beg of you.”

 

The trembling in Reina’s gaze began to transform.

 

“Lady Erika… you have shown me a dream. But is that truly a dream that can be realized?”

 

“That is why I am asking you to join me. A dream dreamt alone is a mere delusion, but a dream dreamt together becomes reality. That is what I believe.”

 

Reina squared her shoulders, regaining her original composure and elegant dignity. Her eyes, reflecting my image, no longer held cold distrust, but rather a warm sense of trust.

 

“I shall become a member of the book club. I may be lacking, but I look forward to working with you, Chief Librarian.”

 

“I believe I am the one who will be relying on you greatly. Let us work hard together.”

 

I smiled brightly and offered Reina my hand.

 

While noble ladies rarely shook hands, I wanted to reach out to her. I felt a powerful conviction that she would become a dependable ally.

 

Reina hesitated for a brief moment before letting a soft smile grace her lips. Her hand reached out, and our hands met in a firm, solid grasp.

 

 

***

 

 

After seeing Reina off to the library entrance hall, I arranged for her to return home in the library’s private carriage out of consideration for her circumstances.

 

Following a brief meal in the dining hall, I returned to my office to resume my tedious battle against the paperwork.

 

Suddenly, the door burst open and Rose came rushing in in a flurry, holding a letter in her hand.

 

“Erika, look! We received a reply from Lady Schpern.”

 

Setting my documents down, I exhaled a sigh of relief.

 

“Really? Ah, thank you goodness. I was getting worried since Eliade hadn’t contacted us at all, and I was just debating whether I should go and persuade her in person.”

 

Rose furrowed her brows, shuddering as if the mere thought of it was terrifying.

 

“Ugh, wouldn’t that be far too dangerous? It would be like walking straight into a wolf’s den just to find a wolf.”

 

I vehemently agreed with her. After all, Duke Schpern’s manor was home not only to the villainess Eliade, but to Franz as well. It might as well be a demon king’s castle.

 

While I was relieved that an in-person visit was no longer necessary, I couldn’t help but wonder what Eliade was plotting by agreeing so readily.

 

Rose’s eyes gleamed sharply, as if she had suddenly been possessed by a master detective.

 

“I smell something suspicious. The Schpern family must have caught on. Since Her Majesty the Queen is sponsoring the book club and His Highness the Crown Prince is showing immense interest, they’ve likely deduced that something significant is afoot.”

 

“Well, there is nothing we can do if they’ve already noticed.”

 

At my indifferent response, Rose tilted her head.

 

“Are you really alright with that, Erika?”

 

“The original purpose of the book club has nothing to do with political issues. I’m going to focus solely on providing these young ladies with a good education and opportunities to learn.”

 

“Alright then! Leave the screening of the Crown Princess candidates to me. I shall examine every single detail with the sharp eyes of a hawk.”

 

Rose seemed brimming with motivation, having clearly braced herself for the task. It might have been due to the reward of a tea party with the Queen, but I had no desire to misinterpret her sincerity.

 

Gathering the stack of papers, I neatly piled them on one side of the desk.

 

“I’ll leave it in your hands, Rose. Please evaluate them as fairly as possible. This will serve as crucial data for deciding the future Crown Princess of the kingdom.”

 

Rose’s eyes suddenly sparkled, a meaningful smile gracing her lips.

 

“Speaking of the Crown Princess, the visits from those two have been rather sparse lately, haven’t they?”

 

“Which two?”

 

Seeming intent on settling into my office for a while, Rose sank deeply into the armchair. She elegantly unfurled her fan, fluttering it gently as she spoke in a thrilled, dreamy voice like a young girl in love.

 

“Oh, don’t pretend you don’t know. I mean His Highness the Crown Prince and His Grace Grand Duke Reinhardt. They used to clock into this library almost every single day, so why haven’t they been coming by lately?”

 

I replied half-heartedly, keeping my focus on reading the next document.

 

“Ah, they’ve been busy with state affairs lately.”

 

“And here I was, hoping to see the two of them engage in a fierce battle of nerves as rivals in love over you!”

 

I set my pen down and let out a long sigh.

 

“Let me make this absolutely clear: as a book reader, my relationship with them is strictly professional. There is no personal intimacy whatsoever between us…”

 

The tip of my tongue suddenly felt as heavy as stone.

 

The breathless kiss shared with Calix, the warm moments spent laughing while meeting each other’s gaze, the sparkling dreams shared in the pub… they all scattered through my fingers like sand.

 

Catching my breath, I gathered my thoughts. It was only by drowning myself in work while distanced from him like this that I truly realized it.

 

I finally understood where I stood, and what it was I needed to do.

 

I must never let myself get swept away by fleeting emotions again.

 

“There is no personal relationship. I mean that from the bottom of my heart, Rose.”

 

Upon hearing my firm response, Rose fell silent. Her elegant lips parted slightly as she pointed toward the open door.

 

“Librarian Erika, I’m rather hurt. To think our relationship amounts to only that much.”

 

Before I knew it, Ludwig was standing there, leaning against the doorframe with his arms crossed.

 

Rose gracefully spread her dress like a peacock and curtsied to the Crown Prince.

 

“Your Highness, it is an honor to have you grace us with your presence despite your busy schedule with state affairs.”

 

A violent urge surged within me to tell Rose the truth.

 

In reality, Calix and William were the ones shouldering all the actual work, while His Highness only dropped by occasionally to utter grand words or stamp his seal. I was certain of it.

 

Looking somewhat fatigued, Ludwig swept back his bangs with a melancholic expression.

 

“Exhausted by state affairs, I wandered in search of an oasis for my soul and found myself here. As expected, the Royal Library is a sanctuary for the heart.”

 

The Crown Prince offered a sweet smile, subtly throwing a wink in our direction. Rose hastily hid her flushing face behind her fan.

 

I glared at Ludwig with suspicious eyes.

 

“Didn’t you simply run away because you didn’t want to attend a meeting?”

 

“I had hoped you would show a bit more faith in me,” he murmured, sending a smooth smile and an intent gaze my way.

 

“You’d actually have to act in a trustworthy manner for me to believe you,” I wanted to retort, but bit my tongue.

 

He was, after all, the Crown Prince of the nation, and as a public servant earning a living from the state, it wouldn’t do to speak recklessly. Visualizing the salary I was due to receive in a few days, I managed to pull off a strictly business-like smile.

 

Watching the subtle clash between the Crown Prince and me, Rose let out an awkward laugh.

 

“Oh my, look at the time. I’ve left the information desk unattended for too long. Well then, I hope the two of you have a wonderful time.”

 

Before I could even try to stop her, she vanished like the wind.

 

‘I, too, wish to make my exit, truly.’

 

Reluctant though I was, etiquette dictated that I host a member of royalty.

 

Quickly but rather carelessly, I prepared some tea and placed it before Ludwig. Perhaps because I had put a bit too much force into my hand, the teacup met the table with a loud clatter.

 

“Thank you for the passionate welcome, Librarian Erika.”

 

Of course, the Crown Prince didn’t even bat an eye.

 

“Please speak frankly regarding the purpose of your visit. I won’t report this separately to the Director.”

 

The Crown Prince smiled, his eyes crinkling softly over his teacup. It was a charming smile capable of bewitching anyone.

 

“I merely dropped by to check on the progress of the book club. And to evaluate the Crown Princess candidates as well.”

 

“You needn’t worry about that; it is progressing smoothly. Furthermore, Your Highness is barred from entering the library for the time being.”

 

Ludwig instantly pouted, looking as aggrieved as a child who had been robbed of his candy.

 

“Why must I be banned from the library?”

 

I wanted to press my palm to my forehead and let out a sigh of despair.

 

Honestly, where on earth were the Director and the Grand Duke, the ones who were actually supposed to handle the Crown Prince? Wasn’t this a total dereliction of duty?

 

“We are currently preparing for the Crown Princess evaluation. If you, an interested party, keep visiting, it will surely catch the attention of the nobles, and the true intent of the book club will be misconstrued. As I have mentioned before, I have no desire to see the book club entangled in political conflicts.”

 

The Crown Prince let out a heavy sigh that seemed to shake the room.

 

“Haah, how despairing. Very well, how long do you intend to run the book club for?”

 

“We will run the first session as a pilot for three months, and we plan to continue it consistently thereafter.”

 

“Hmm, a royal ball is scheduled to take place in a month’s time, so we can conduct an interim review then.”

 

The Crown Prince’s tone, which sounded as though he were appraising merchandise, grated on my nerves. A frown inadvertently marred my features.

 

Noticing my souring expression, Ludwig beamed with an amused glint in his eyes.

 

“This is precisely why I like you. It all shows on your face. That expression that says you absolutely detest me—it’s quite entertaining.”

 

“I expect to be fully compensated with overtime pay for the hours dedicated to the Crown Princess evaluation. Labor is sacred, after all.”

 

Leaning back against the sofa with his arms spread out and his legs crossed, the Crown Prince looked up at me with an arrogant gaze.

 

“Ask for whatever you desire, Erika. Dresses, jewels, estates—I can even find the finest husband for you. Ah, but do exclude me from the options. The line of candidates is already quite long.”

 

“You may rest assured, as Your Highness is absolutely out of the question.”

 

His clear blue eyes observed me as though inspecting a strange creature.

 

Looking into those eyes always brought about an odd sensation. It was a gaze that seemed to pierce through the very essence of everything. His long, languid eyelashes blinked slowly.

 

“You are the first person of your kind I’ve encountered. Becoming the companion of the Crown Prince is the sole method in this world to become royalty through non-hereditary means. And yet, why do you not covet it?”

 

‘Again? More dangerous lines keep slipping out.’

 

It was the textbook line of male leads that I had grown sick of seeing in novels. Though it had undergone various iterations lately, the core essence remained the same…

 

“You’re the first one to treat me like this!”

 

The hand holding my teacup trembled slightly. I felt my entire body freeze.

 

Could it be that the Crown Prince, too, had fallen for me?

 

If that was the case…

 

Instinctively, I scrambled to alter my expression.

 

I pressed my upper lip toward the tip of my nose, contorted my eyebrows, and wrinkled my forehead without a care for any lines it might leave.

 

In short, I conjured the absolute ugliest face I could possibly make!

 

Upon witnessing my grotesque expression, the Crown Prince looked visibly shocked, his face going completely blank.

 

“Why on earth are you making such a bizarre face? Are you unwell? Is the excessive workload taking a mental toll on you?”

 

With my face still twisted, I forced the words out with difficulty.

 

“I’m telling you not to fall for me. This is my personal protective shield.”

 

Even chameleons change their body colors to conceal themselves from enemies.

 

Therefore, this was my survival tactic in a romance world where people fell in love at first sight.

 

“……”

 

The Crown Prince suddenly dropped his head. Wondering what was wrong, I stared at him intently.

 

His crimson hair began to tremble violently, and his entire body shook as though he had been struck by a bolt of lightning.

 

“Pfft, hahahaha!”

 

An explosive burst of laughter echoed through the office, loud enough to bring down the roof.

 

Reflexively, I covered my ears. What a fright; I thought my eardrums were going to burst.

 

“Really, hahaha! You are truly amazing, hahahaha!”

 

He clutched his stomach, laughing so hard that he couldn’t even finish his sentence, tears pooling at the corners of his eyes.

 

Even after I restored my expression to normal, the Crown Prince continued to laugh for quite some time. His face had turned bright red from the sheer exertion of his laughter.

 

Sipping my cooled tea, I shot a sharp, sullen glare at him.

 

“Laughing like that right in front of someone is rather rude, Your Highness.”

 

“Hahaha, truly, you are the first person of your kind I’ve met.”

 

Ludwig spoke as he wiped away his tears. Once his laughter subsided, his playful and jovial demeanor vanished in an instant, replaced by a serious gaze directed straight at me.

 

The lighthearted atmosphere turned heavy in a split second.

 

Ludwig leaned in toward me. Since I was holding a teacup, I found myself without an opening to retreat.

 

His hand gently brushed the tips of my hair. Soon after, his lips descended onto my hair as softly as the season’s first snow.

 

Caught completely off guard, I couldn’t even think of pushing the Crown Prince away; I could only blink my eyelids in astonishment.

 

With a flushed gaze, Ludwig whispered in a deeply raspy voice, “This is exactly why I find myself falling for you even more.”

 

‘That had backfired spectacularly.’

 

The Crown Prince’s symptoms had only worsened.

 

Bang!

 

In that instant, the door flew open so violently it seemed on the verge of breaking, and someone strode inside with long steps.

 

“Your Highness, what do you think you are doing here?”

 

It was a sharp voice laced with suppressed fury—Calix.

 

At his entirely unexpected appearance, Ludwig froze with his hand still grasping my hair, and I sat paralyzed with my teacup in hand.

 

“Ah… hello, Grand Duke.”

 

I quickly extricated my hair from the Crown Prince’s grip and offered an awkward greeting.

 

To think I would show him such a pathetic sight upon our first meeting in a while.

 

Leaning back lazily against the sofa, Ludwig sneered.

 

“My, my, it seems the Sword of Ruberia has grown dull. Grand Duke Reinhardt, I am disappointed that it took you this long to locate me.”

 

Calix knitted his brows. He appeared genuinely enraged, a thick vein bulging on his forehead.

 

“It would suffice if Your Highness simply informed us of your destination from the start. Why on earth did you shake off the Royal Guard? And,”

 

With a coldly frozen countenance, Calix directed his gaze toward the Crown Prince and me.

 

“Why are you present here?”

 

To think a speech could sound so threatening despite utilizing formal language; it was a remarkable way of speaking.

 

Avoiding Calix’s terrifying gaze, Ludwig feigned innocence.

 

“T-That… I merely came to inspect if the progress of the book club is coming along well.”

 

“If your inspection is complete, then please return.”

 

“Already? What a pity. I had hoped to share more private conversation with Librarian Erika.”

 

Ludwig curved his eyes halfway, flashing a seductive smile.

 

“I would love to invite you to the royal palace so the two of us can enjoy a private tea time together.”

 

‘Is he trying to ruin my promising future?’

 

Nobles absolutely lived for rumors and gossip. My head began to ache at the mere thought of becoming the talk of the town.

 

Just as I was about to deliver a cold refusal, Calix stepped in and cut him off bluntly.

 

“Absolutely not.”

 

“I do not recall asking for your opinion, Your Grace.”

 

“I am offering counsel as your subject. Inviting Librarian Erika to the palace will only serve to fuel wild rumors. Are you unaware of the numerous eyes watching your every move, Your Highness?”

 

With a playful smirk lingering on his lips, Ludwig pressed his index finger to his lips.

 

“Then, let me ask you this instead.”

 

The Crown Prince’s gaze suddenly turned earnest.

 

“Setting aside everyone else, what do you truly think about me having a private tea time with Librarian Erika, Calix? I would love to hear the honest thoughts of my old friend.”

 

Without a single moment of hesitation, Calix delivered a firm, immediate response.

 

“Drop it. Do not put Erika in a difficult position.”

 

Startled, I could only gape in silence.

 

Even if they were childhood friends, wasn’t speaking informally to royalty crossing the line?

 

Yet, the Crown Prince did not seem to mind in the slightest. On the contrary, his lips curled upward as if he found Calix’s reaction quite amusing.

 

“Regrettably, I must take my leave. If I stay any longer, I fear I shall go down in history as an ill-fated prince who fell by the sword of his loyal knight and trusted friend.”

 

Ludwig spoke, throwing a playful wink my way.

 

I nodded slightly in agreement. Given the ominous aura radiating from behind Calix’s back, it was an entirely plausible outcome.

 

Keeping an eye on Calix’s reaction, I whispered to the Crown Prince.

 

“The enemy always lies closest to you. Please take care of yourself at all times, Your Highness.”

 

“Oh, I shall take your advice to heart.”

 

The Crown Prince widened his eyes, feigning surprise. He then lowered his voice, whispering sweetly.

 

“Surely that enemy residing close by doesn’t happen to refer to you, does it?”

 

“Who knows. Occasionally, I do feel a strong urge to hurl a thick book at the back of your head, Your Highness.”

 

I confessed to plotting an assassination in a grave tone. Ludwig grimaced with exaggerated sorrow, as if finding it quite unfortunate.

 

“In that case, I must hone my agility to dodge any flying books.”

 

As the Crown Prince and I exchanged banter like a comedy duo, Calix, seemingly unable to tolerate listening any further, gritted out between his teeth.

 

“Enough. Let us depart. Your. High. Ness.”

 

With an unyielding demeanor, Calix practically escorted Ludwig out of the office. Outside the door, an aide was waiting anxiously, stomping his feet.

 

The moment he spotted the Crown Prince, he rushed over and poured out his grievances. He looked on the verge of tears, having clearly suffered immensely while searching for the missing prince.

 

“Just where on earth did you go? Do you have any idea how frantically we searched for you? Please, from next time, at least tell us where you are headed.”

 

“Understood, understood. Let us go then.”

 

Looking a bit sheepish, Ludwig stole a glance at me before departing alongside his aide.

 

Calix made as if to leave as well, but suddenly spun around and stopped right in front of me. Wondering what else he had left to say, I stared up at him intently.

 

“Erika, in the future, I would prefer it if you avoided situations where you are left entirely alone with His Highness.”

 

“I wish for nothing more than to avoid them myself. As you well know, Grand Duke, His Highness’s visits are akin to a natural disaster. Try as I might to evade them, I simply cannot.”

 

I shrugged my shoulders, adopting a resigned expression.

 

Calix shook his head, releasing a faint sigh.

 

“It seems I must monitor—no, escort His Highness more thoroughly.”

 

“You certainly have your hands full. Grand Duke.”

 

I felt genuine pity for him. Calix paused, staring down at me intently.

 

“Retiring and guarding you myself would likely be faster.”

 

‘No, retiring just to become a guard knight would be a complete waste of talent.’

 

Just how much capital would it require to employ the Grand Duke of the North as a mere knight?

 

Furrowing my brows slightly, I delivered a swift refusal.

 

“I am perfectly fine, really. I can protect myself.”

 

“I do not like it.”

 

“Pardon?”

 

Startled by his abrupt, displeased statement, I blinked and questioned him back.

 

Dark, intense eyes filled with latent heat locked onto me. It was a gaze so powerful it took my breath away.

 

“I do not like seeing anyone else reflected in your eyes. I wish for nothing but myself to occupy your sight.”

 

“Ah…”

 

For a moment, I found myself entirely at a loss for words. My heart raced wildly, and my throat went completely dry.

 

“Whomever I choose to look at is entirely up to me.”

 

I managed to counter weakly, offering it as an excuse. Yet, he continued to stare through me without breaking eye contact.

 

Soon after, his large, straight hand gently stroked my cheek. That touch alone left me feeling lightheaded, forcing me to suppress my trembling heart.

 

Calix slowly lowered his head, bringing his face closer to mine.

 

‘Could it be that he intends to kiss me?’

 

I swiftly averted my head, dodging his approach. I could feel his heated breath brushing against my ear.

 

“I missed you, Erika.”

 

It was an earnest, aching voice.

 

In an instant, my face grew burning hot. I feared he might hear the loud, frantic pounding of my heart.

 

Did Calix have any inkling? That I, too, had missed him.

 

Yet, unable to bring myself to utter those words aloud, I kept my head turned away. Flat, emotionless words slipped past my lips, entirely detached from my true feelings.

 

“His Highness is waiting for you. You should depart, Grand Duke.”

 

The gaze Calix fixed on me resembled that of a wounded child.

 

“Due to preparations for establishing the knight order, I shall be residing at the library villa for the time being. I have instructed the butler, so if you experience any discomfort, you may speak to him.”

 

Despite his words, his voice remained rigidly controlled, making it impossible to gauge his true emotions.

 

I focused all my energy on desperately maintaining a professional demeanor.

 

“Understood.”

 

Calix continued to gaze at me, as if clinging to a lingering attachment he couldn’t quite sever.

 

“Is that all you have to say?”

 

“…Yes.”

 

‘No, that’s a lie. The words I wish to say to you are overflowing within me. “Are you eating your meals properly? Are you sleeping soundly? Do you still suffer from nightmares?”, ”Don’t worry about Michael; I shall take good care of him.”, “I wish for you to return safely to the Duke’s manor without injury, so we can share meals, stroll through the gardens, and read books together in the study…”.

 

I forcefully swallowed the countless tender and warm thoughts that kept surging within me.

 

Calix’s gaze wandered over my face like a lost bird. His eyes were so deep and dark that, if I weren’t careful, I felt I might be pulled right into them.

 

“I see. I shall take my leave then.”

 

The cold thud of the closing door echoed through my mind like a clap of thunder.

 

 

***

 

Presently, I was standing before a classroom inside the annex of the Royal Library.

 

Facing the classroom door, I took a deep, steadying breath.

 

Though my entire body trembled with a mix of excitement and anxiety, I balled my hands into tight fists. Once more, I checked my librarian uniform to ensure there were no wrinkles or disarray.

 

Rose watched me with an expression of sympathy.

 

“I am ready, Rose.”

 

Suppressing my tremors, I offered Rose a smile filled with gratitude.

 

At long last, the grand opening ceremony of the Royal Library Book Club, a project everyone had poured their hearts into, was about to begin. Beyond that door sat the young ladies awaiting a new destiny.

 

Though time had been scarce, I had given my absolute best to prepare for this book club. Had it not been for the devoted assistance of the library staff, this day would never have come.

 

Staring at the closed door, the moment I had first rushed into this place to escape Verdi and his lackeys flashed across my mind.

 

Back then, I had no inkling of what lay ahead. Merely to survive, to escape, I had thrown open the library doors recklessly, completely blind to what awaited me on the other side.

 

However, this time was different. I now knew with absolute certainty what was waiting for me inside.

 

My tension gradually dissipated, and my stiffened muscles relaxed. My chest swelled with anticipation and excitement.

 

Rose patted my shoulder, offering her encouragement.

 

“Chief Librarian, go deliver a wonderful speech.”

 

Nodding to Rose, I pushed the door open and stepped inside. Instantly, the noisy chatter inside the classroom ceased, and the twenty young ladies seated within turned their gazes upon me in unison.

 

The first person to catch my eye was Freesia. Her eyes crinkled beautifully as she offered a welcoming greeting.

 

Seated behind Freesia, Reina gave a brief nod, her face maintaining its characteristic indifference. I could also clearly see Eliade, lavishly adorned, sitting with a thoroughly displeased expression.

 

For the most part, the young ladies wore modest dresses in calm hues, their expressions sparkling with an eagerness to learn.

 

Confronted by their enthusiasm, the remaining traces of anxiety within my heart melted away.

 

Standing before the podium, I bowed slightly to greet the young ladies.

 

“A heartfelt welcome to the book club. I am Erika Diel, the Chief Librarian of the Royal Library, and the one responsible for leading this book club.”

 

As I concluded my introduction, a ripple of excitement passed through the classroom. The young ladies looked at me with an almost overwhelming amount of admiration, while Freesia smiled with a face full of pride.

 

In stark contrast, Eliade sneered coldly, her gaze dripping with contempt.

 

Some of the young ladies clutched each other’s hands in sheer awe, letting out soft gasps of admiration. They behaved precisely like young fangirls face-to-face with their favorite idol.

 

“Oh my goodness, Lady Diel is that very Goddess of War we’ve only heard about in rumors!”

 

“To be able to meet you like this is truly an honor for our family.”

 

To think I would have to hear that embarrassing moniker even here.

 

A headache throbbed at my temples, but I forced myself to maintain a composed smile.

 

“Yes, that is correct. I am indeed that famous Goddess of War. Please do not be startled if the painting and the real person differ; the artist went a bit overboard with the beautification.”

 

The young ladies burst into a chorus of giggles. The atmosphere grew considerably lighter. Gaining confidence, I pressed on with my speech.

 

“Now then, just what exactly will we be learning here at the book club? I am sure you are all immensely curious.”

 

A few young ladies nodded along, their eyes gleaming with curiosity.

 

“We will not be teaching high society etiquette or the accomplishments expected of a lady here. Nor will we be learning the language of the fan. After all, aren’t fans meant for cooling oneself when it is hot?”

 

I meant it sincerely. I had been utterly shocked when Rose first informed me that one could hold a conversation using a fan.

 

The young ladies hid their smiles behind their hands, amused by my remark. Eliade, however, merely scoffed and unfurled her fan.

 

Maintaining a gentle smile, I scanned the room, making direct eye contact with each and every one of them.

 

“The Royal Book Club will teach you how to think for yourselves, voice your opinions, and protect yourselves. What you learn here will be of absolutely no help in becoming a good bride or a wise wife. If that is what you came expecting, you will be disappointed.”

 

Freesia and Reina, who were already aware of the book club’s true nature, offered subtle smiles of agreement. However, Eliade and several other young ladies who lacked prior information appeared considerably startled.

 

One young lady cautiously raised her hand. She was a lady of slender, quiet impression, resembling a small deer.

 

Adopting a warm expression, I met her gaze.

 

“You are Lady Melanie of the Baron Barret family, correct? Do you have a question?”

 

Melanie fidgeted with her hands, her face flushing shyly as she spoke.

 

“I… I believed we would be learning the refinement expected of a lady and the cultivation necessary to become the mistress of a household here. Just like what other noble ladies learn through private tutors. If that is not the case, then what exactly do we learn?”

 

“I shall explain the answer to that right now.”

 

Holding up a book I had prepared, I spread it wide open from both sides.

 

“Everyone, what does the shape of this book resemble to you?”

 

At the sudden question, the young ladies murmured softly amongst themselves. Reina spoke up quietly.

 

“It resembles the wings of a bird.”

 

Impressed by Reina’s response, which precisely mirrored my own thoughts, I offered her a grateful smile.

 

“Correct. A book takes the shape of a bird. I believe books will grant us freedom, much like a bird’s wings. We all possess invisible wings. If we wish to fly freely, we must read books, learn on our own, and awaken our minds.”

 

The expressions of the young ladies grew notably solemn. A few let out quiet murmurs of admiration.

 

“The book club will assist you in gaining strong wings. I hope you will become strong birds capable of soaring through wind and rain, rather than remaining birds confined to a cage.”

 

Emphasizing each and every word, I desperately hoped my sincerity would reach them.

 

After all, the words I addressed to them were equally meant for myself.

 

I would no longer be swept away by the destiny of a villainous supporting character.

 

I would forge my own path as I saw fit.