“That was very interesting. Thank you for the good experience.”

“Really? I’m glad to hear that.”

After watching the performance, we exchanged such words while having a late lunch at a restaurant Philip had reserved. Apparently, he really enjoyed it, which was a relief.

That restaurant, which was one of the most popular restaurants in the royal capital, was famous for its seafood dishes—which happened to also be my favorite. I wondered if he chose that restaurant with that in mind.

I kept saying that it was delicious. Each time, he’d smile and say “That’s good.”

“Even so, wasn’t it difficult to read all the 31 books?”

“Indeed. I have work, so I stayed up all night for about three days.”

“T, three days…!?”

Why would he go to such lengths!? Seeing me muttering, he chuckled.

“Even if a little, I want to enjoy our time together.”

I really didn’t understand the person named Philip. At the same time, I also wanted to cry a little for some reason. I also wanted to hit myself, for letting go of my competitiveness towards the newbie that easily.

…If everything was indeed a lie, was there a need for him to go to such an extent?

Gradually, my doubts towards him swelled within me. However, still feeling uncertain, I told myself to not let my guard down yet.

“A second stage play was announced. It’s scheduled for next year?”

“Yes, I’m looking forward to it. I hope we can go together again.”

However, as soon as those words unconsciously left my mouth, I raised my face. Philip was also staring at me with an indescribable expression. It was as if he was about to cry.

“…Next year, will you still say that to me?”

He muttered with a voice that seemed like it were to disappear. When he saw me, whom was confused by the meaning of his words, Philip also showed a surprised expression.

“I’m sorry. Don’t worry about it. If you’re alright with me, I definitely want to go with you again next year.”

He said while laughing, as if troubled.

◇◇◇

After finishing our meal, I was offered to take a short walk outside. I nodded. I had even become accustomed to the fact that we often held hands.

Then, when the two of us were strolling through a nearby park, I saw a boy standing alone. He was about 10 years old. From his appearance, I concluded that he was an aristocrat.

Recently, there were many kidnappings for ransom. I thought it’d be dangerous for such a boy to be alone. After telling Philip, I decided to approach the boy.

“Hello, are you lost?”

When I talked to him, he said. “No, it’s my servants who are lost.”

…What a troublesome child. That said, I couldn’t leave him as he was.

“Would you like to wait with older sister until your servants arrive?”

“…I don’t mind.”

Judging from his honest answer, the boy might be anxious inside. It was a bad idea to move around aimlessly, so we sat on a bench nearby.

After hearing his story, my guess was proven to be true. He was the son of an aristocrat. I didn’t want him to be suspicious, so I didn’t ask for his name. We waited for his servants to appear.

But somehow, my surroundings were odd. Because it was daytime, many couples were flirting—and even kissing. But neither of the two—Philip and the boy—seemed to care. They both showed a cool expression.

Somehow, it felt awkward. I stood up, saying I’d buy a drink at a nearby food stall.

Then, when I returned with three drinks.

“Did you guys also do something like those other couples?”

The boy asked a ridiculous question. I paused as I watched them.

Philip gave a bitter laugh. I turned my gaze towards him, thinking he’d set the boy straight. For some reason, after looking a bit confused, he opened his mouth.

“Of course we do.”

Why were you lying again?

For him to also lie to a stranger, I wanted to tip my hat to his nowhere to be found conscience.

“When would you guys do it?”

“…When we’re happy, or when something good happens.”

He’s equating those passionate acts of romance to a high five! Stop!

Due to his low level of knowledge about romance, I just wanted to throw the drinks. I wanted him to study all the 31 volumes again all night long.

“Then, are you guys going to get married?”

“At the very least, I want to.”

“What do you mean by that?”

“There are circumstances…”

What was that…?

Although I was confused, I thought the drinks would spoiled if I didn’t return soon. Acting as if I had just arrived, I said. “Sorry to have kept you waiting.”

“Oi, you, do you love this guy?”

As soon as I gave them the juice, the boy came with an even more ridiculous question.

However, because of the lie he mentioned earlier, it had become a fact to the boy that kissing is quite frequent in our relationship. I didn’t want the boy to have a bad education.

“Of course I love him.”

That was why I said that. At that moment, Philip covered his face with one hand and looked down. He sighed deeply, “Haa…” The skin, which could be seen through the gaps, was bright red for some reason.

Then, he suddenly stood up. “I’m thirsty, so I’ll buy a drink.” And left with the drink I had just handed over.

---

***T/N: AHAHAHAHA THIS MAN WASN’T MADE TO HANDLE THAT MUCH OF A CONFESSION.

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