The only people who knew about them were the escort knights, the shopkeepers, and Radian, who I had briefly encountered in the store. The former was out of the equation. Not only were the escort knights our vassals, but they also knew that I was usually alone at home. The shopkeepers couldnt be so bold as to start such rumors either, in fear of decapitation. Even if these werent valid reasons, the answer was obvious from the beginning.
Radian. How can he be so delusional to start rumors just because I bought a pair of cufflinks?His notoriety as a viper was fitting, seeing as how he bit off more than he could chew.Now that I think about it, Lord Rowen made a lot of excuses. He mustve found another partner after hearing this rumor The same thing will probably happen if I accept Sir Boromirs or Lord Crocuss offers to become my partner.
My only option was to find a partner who wouldnt be deterred by this rumor, otherwise, my father might mention the marriage list.The problem is is there such a person?
As I became lost in thought, a knocking sound on my window broke my concentration.What is it?I turned around to look at the source.
A familiar, handsome face came into view. He looked at me and pointed at the latch.Ah, my fathers disciple is here again.I didnt think that he was being sincere in the note he had written with his eccentric handwriting.
Coming and going as he pleases how bothersome.I sighed and released the latch. He opened the window and entered my room.
Hes still handsome No, I cant think about that right now.I was reminded of what was troubling me and snapped out of my foolish thoughts. If someone witnessed him coming into my room, the rumor might become an established fact.Well thats not the only reason. Nothing good will come from being closer to him either.For these reasons, I decided to ask him not to visit for the time being.
Hey, you know you cant
He cut me off. Where were you just now? he asked with a piercing gaze.
Hes being ridiculous.I frowned slightly. His question was absurd, considering that we hadnt met in a while.
I said, where were you just now? he repeated.
Although I wanted to ask him the same thing, such as where he went and why he came back so suddenly, I didnt want to argue with an immature person like him. I already had a lot on my mind.
Downstairs, I said.
He loosened his tense expression. I see. He even smiled slightly, much to my bewilderment. His emotions were difficult to follow.
I dont have time to deal with him today I have many other things to think about.I glanced at him and decided to make him my fathers responsibility. If youre here to see my father, I think hes still home
He cut me off again. No, he just left.
If he doesnt want to see my father, why did he come here? Was he kicked out again?My thoughts became more complicated as I tried to think about possible scenarios on top of my existing problems.
Why are you sighing? he asked with a frown. Although we became closer after spending a few days together, I wasnt comfortable enough to tell him my troubles.
Im just worried about a lot of things, I said vaguely.
Why? Whats going on?
Its not a big deal I trailed off, hoping to end the conversation there.
Tell me. I wont tell anyone else, he said.
When I gazed into his red eyes, I recalled the time I had told him about my troubles with my father.Will I feel better like I did back then?
Then please promise me that you wont tell my father, I said. I stared at him and waited for a response.
He nodded gently. Okay, I promise.
100 gold bars if you break the promise? I joked, amused that he was strangely being obedient.
He twisted his expression. Stop joking around and just tell me. I will never break my promise.
I was still worried, but I remembered the days we spent together. His firm voice and gaze also made me trust him a little more.Even if he tells someone, the worst that can happen is getting scolded.
When I made up my mind to tell him, he mustve thought I was still hesitating because he said, If I say anything, even by accident, I will give you all my wealth. So, go ahead and tell me.
I burst out laughing because he had said those words quite seriously.He doesnt even have a home, but hes betting all his money?I quickly forgot about how upset I was.
Why are you laughing? His face became a little red as if he was displeased by my amusement. I barely suppressed my laughter, thinking that he would get angry if I continued.
Then thats a deal. If I find out that my father knows, Ill make sure to take everything you have.
He scowled. Yes, so hurry up and tell me, he said sharply, unlike his previous tone. Although I didnt like his attitude, I kind of felt like I could trust him.
Well I began slowly.