Chapter 40

When my name was called, I looked up and met Zain-sama’s gaze, which was fixed on me with a directness that made it impossible to look away. His eyes, honey-colored and seemingly infused with heat, held me in their intensity.

"I like you much more than you think I do."

"………"

"The you who changed my world is now so cute and dear to me that I can't help it."

Taken aback by this sudden confession, I was left speechless. Zain-sama continued, "But unfortunately, it seems that hasn't gotten through to you—"

He pressed his lips to the back of my hand and smiled, his lips curling beautifully.

"I plan to take my time and make you understand my feelings."

His tone and gaze were provocatively unlike the usually calm Zain-sama, making my heart race in a way that was almost embarrassing.

"By the way, I hate losing and have never lost in my entire life. I have no intention of losing in the future either."

Then, Zain-sama looked at me and declared this with a confidence that made me feel as if nothing was impossible for him.

This must be his response to my declaration the other day that I would never give up. His overwhelming confidence made me feel as if there was no such thing as the impossible for Zain-sama.

As expected of the protagonist, he is too perfect. To me, who has always led a losing life, he truly seems to belong to a different world.

But from tomorrow, I will no longer be in front of him, and such opportunities will cease to exist. I tried to convince myself that it was okay and managed to open my mouth.

"O-Okay, that's amazing."

"Yeah. Be prepared."

After giving such an incomprehensible response, I watched Zain-sama’s carriage leave and ran into the mansion as if fleeing.

"Ugh, I can't take it anymore..."

As the door closed, I slumped to the ground, clutching my chest tightly.

Even without spending time, I already feel like I understand Zain-sama’s feelings all too well.

I seriously thought that I needed to get away from here and from Zain-sama as soon as possible.

"…You really are unfair."

—And it would be a little later before I would come to understand the true meaning of his words.

◇◇◇

"Are you really fine with just this much luggage? You have less than me."

"Rather, why do you have so much luggage, Evan?"

"First of all, I can't sleep if my pillow changes."

"Can't you apply that sensitivity to something else?"

Two days after visiting the Winslett Duke's residence, I left the mansion before dawn and was being jolted in a carriage.

I was heading to a village called Trasmina, which was prepared by Ranhardt for my disappearance.

Although it is quite a distance from the capital, it can be reached in about three days using a transfer magic array called a gate, in addition to the carriage.

However, this time, to cover my tracks, we planned to take a detour and change carriages, which would take about five days.

Trasmina is a small village, but it is said to have beautiful scenery and delicious food, making it perfect for a relaxing stay. Especially, the sea is very beautiful, and it is one of Ranhardt's favorite places.

"Miss, are you not cold? Here, please."

"Thank you, Yana."

I accepted the blanket from Yana and placed it on my knees. Although I hesitated a bit, Yana and Evan said they would accompany me on this disappearance plan. Of course, Haniwa-chan is also with us.

With these two and Haniwa-chan, I can feel safe and enjoy my time in an unfamiliar place. I am truly grateful.

All that's left is to pray that Zain-sama meets Charlotte and finds happiness.

"I have three months, so I want to do something new."

I will probably keep thinking about Zain-sama for a while. That's why I want to find something that can fully engage me.

Since it's a village by the sea, developing seafood dishes that can be served in a restaurant might be a good idea.

"Something new… How about a new love?"

"I've never been in love before, so it's not really new."

"Well, if you think so, then that's how it is for you."

"………"

Perhaps sensing my frustration, Haniwa-chan, who had jumped off my shoulder, created a disproportionately muscular arm and punched the smug-looking Evan.

"Ouch… Miss, please fire this guy."

"Where does your confidence come from that you should be prioritized?"

I have been continuing my magic practice, and as a result, Haniwa-chan has also continued to evolve. Now, Haniwa-chan’s combat abilities have significantly improved, making her a great support.

"Haniwa-chan is such a good girl, good job."

I plan to continue learning magic and apply it to various things.

"If I could use water and fire magic, it would be useful for cooking. It's very rare to have multiple attributes, right?"

"Yes, it's said that only one in several thousand among magic users."

I have heard that magic users make up about 30% of the population. Given that ratio, they must be truly valuable.

Without being greedy, I need to focus on practicing earth magic.

"By the way, I heard that the previous Holy Maiden could use multiple attributes in addition to holy magic."

At this, I let out a surprised "Huh?" I only knew from the novel that Charlotte would become the Holy Maiden, so I had no idea that there had been a Holy Maiden before.

"What was the previous Holy Maiden like?"

"Oh, you've forgotten about that. I thought you already knew."

"Huh?"

Confused by Evan’s words, which implied that I should have known, Yana spoke up.

"The previous Holy Maiden was Rosalie Winslett, Zain Winslett-sama’s mother and the former Duchess."