Still stroking my cheek, weighing up my reaction, Ed hesitated. Then, slowly closing his eyes, he leaned in…closer than he ever had before…and for a brief moment, his lips touched mine.
I looked at Ed, blinking in surprise.
“Was that unwelcome?”
“…It was very welcome.”
I touched my lips, half in disbelief.
“Unwelcome?” It was wonderful…
“I’m glad.” His joy showed on his face. “I know I’m speaking above my position here, but please, Princess…I’ll do my best to proceed with as much haste as is possible, but for a few years, at least…would you wait for me?”
From the serious look in his eyes as he gazed at me and from the words he used…I knew for sure then that what Ed wanted was to become a man of high social ranking. High enough even to pursue, and then propose to, a princess like me.
By becoming a Royal Magician, Ed must have been aiming to ascend to the rank of Magic Count. Since the legendary sorcerer Longile, no other had ever risen to such an exalted rank.
“I’ll gladly wait for you.”
A single tear rolled down my cheek.
Back in that desolate dungeon cell, I wished for another chance, to marry someone I loved. Will you make that come true for me, in this new world?
In truth, I’d known it for a long time. Ever since he squeezed my hand so reassuringly in that dank dungeon cell. I’d been in love with Ed. My brave knight, my loyal protector.
“I swear I’ll obtain what I seek.” Ed took my hand and kneeled there on the spot to swear an oath, in the manner of a knight swearing fealty to his lord. “I promise you, Princess.”
“Yes. It’s a promise.” My voice was trembling and tearful.
Through the doors behind us I could hear the laughter of my fellow students, the orchestra playing a lively tune.
At the first ball of my first life, Daniel asked me to dance, and marrying him led to destruction and ruin.
At the first ball of my second life, Ed asked me to dance, and this time…I wanted a second chance for real love. Real happiness.
This time…I had to get it right…