Lost momentarily in thoughts about my recent conversation with Father, I was pulled back to reality by Bertia’s curious voice. “Lord Cecil?”
I softly smiled and lightly shook my head, saying, “It’s nothing.”
Though sharing our royal lineage with Bertia would be simple—considering her fate to join the royal family and access its secrets—I decided against it.
Sharing with her the heavy legacy we Alphastas bear could tighten our bond if I conveyed that my unpredictable nature might worsen if she were to leave. This awareness could serve as a chain, yet the idea of using my inherited blood—an aspect of me determined not by choice but by birth—as a shackle repulsed me.
I wanted to keep her by my side through choices made freely, through mutual understanding and decision-making, not through the chains of destiny or genetic fate. After all, isn’t it much more romantic to speak of destiny than to give in to genetic doom?
If she ever genuinely planned to leave, I could be inclined to embellish the story of our “cursed bloodline” to hold her back. However, no such actions were required now, nor did I find them necessary.
Burdening her with the shackles of my lineage, stifling her vibrant expressions and clipping her wings, would only lessen the very charm that attracted me to her. It was better to grant her some freedom, to let her remain unaware of being trapped in any way, thereby enhancing her allure.
I didn’t want a puppet who simply went along with my desires. What fascinated me about Bertia was her unpredictable nature, much like a jack-in-the-box that surprises and delights simultaneously. I appreciated every aspect of her personality, including the spontaneous outbursts that often caught me off guard.
Bertia was my primary interest, my “special someone,” and also my anchor. Since she had completely captured my attention, it was only fitting that she remained by my side until my heart stopped beating.
Having her by my side filled me with true happiness and contentment. In this joy, I felt more motivated to strive for the welfare of our subjects, confident that our happiness would radiate to Bertia and, through her, to our entire community.
The cycle that started appeared flawless, creating a scenario where no one would suffer loss.
Don’t you agree?
Bertia’s expression became more and more confused.
With a reassuring smile, I shattered the silence. “Excited for the wedding, aren’t you? I can’t wait to begin our life together.” I knew that with her by my side, each day would be vibrant and full of joy.
“W-w-what? The wedding?! Yes, I can’t wait for it either!” Bertia stuttered, her cheeks turning red as her gaze shifted anxiously. Her behavior resembled that of a cute, timid creature.
“The wait until graduation feels long.”
“No, not at all! Time will fly by as we prepare for the ceremony! I… I will miss seeing you every day, though…” Her voice trailed off.
Although we weren’t in the same school year and didn’t see each other daily, I decided it was better not to mention that right now.
“I will dedicate myself to being a wife just as fiercely as I did while training to be a villainess!” she proclaimed with enthusiasm and resolve.
“I’ll also train to be a good husband,” I replied, half-jokingly contemplating where to begin—maybe by quieting the noisy neighbors to our kingdom, much like buzzing insects around our ears.
Based on insights from the Marquis of Noches and Kulgan regarding their domestic issues, along with my own intelligence about the neighboring country’s questionable activities, it shouldn’t be too difficult to silence them.
Perhaps I should initiate a business venture or two to increase the budget for Bertia’s bridal gown and other expenses. I want to protect my lovely bride from any difficulties.
When I brought up the idea of training to become a better husband, Bertia shook her head vigorously. “Cecil-sama doesn’t need any training to be wonderful! You’re already the best groom there could be!”
How should I reply to this charming being, so earnestly squeezing my hands and championing my virtues?
… Really, Kuro? Are you still questioning my abilities? I guess I have my moments of effectiveness too.
Then there’s Zeno, always cautious. “Don’t overdo it, please?” though his tone unmistakably suggested more lethal undertones. Are you implying I’m some kind of tyrant?
A terrifying Demon Lord, you think… Already planning a “tutorial” session for him in my office later.
Refocusing on Bertia, I smiled warmly. “I’m genuinely moved by your words, Tia, but I can’t allow you to be the only one making an effort. As promised, I’ll work hard to become a king deserving of you.”
“Lord Cecil…” Bertia’s eyes filled with tears, overtaken by emotion.
I leaned in to kiss her forehead, a simple and tender gesture. Just as my lips neared her skin, Kuro’s tail swooped in to block me. Seriously? With little other option, I took hold of the pesky tail, set it aside gently, and swiftly gave Bertia a peck on the lips instead.
“?!” Bertia gasped, and “Fushaaa!” came the indignant hiss from Kuro, whose tail puffed up in my hand. I chose to ignore it.
Bertia, caught between shock and joy, embraced Kuro tightly, her cheeks turning a deep red. “My sweet Tia, you always manage to amuse me. I wish to watch over you for eternity.”
“Fumyaaaa!!” she squealed, her voice oozing with such sweetness that I almost felt overwhelmed myself.
Bertia, in her panic, attempted to escape from my lap, but I held her firmly, preventing her from getting away. She muttered something about this being a “smothering love route” and how terrifyingly intense the situation felt, yet her amusing reactions were too entertaining for me to ignore.
It struck me then, as it has on numerous occasions, that my records of observing Bertia—this intriguing and unpredictable being—would undoubtedly persist for my entire life.