Chapter 56

It's a slightly shorter interlude.

Finally, this day has come. Or perhaps it would be more accurate to say that we have finally reached this day. Elina was about to face the last day of her three-year whirlwind of school life. Today was the day of the graduation ceremony at the Royal Academy.

Last year's school life was not something Elina could truly say she enjoyed. However, she felt a deep sense of emotion that this year was different.

There were times when she had to go to the royal castle under the pretext of education, but the fact that the last year prioritized school life was a significant factor. The friendships formed within the school would become a great source of strength after graduation. This was especially true for Elina, who would soon become the Crown Princess after her marriage.

"It's finally the graduation ceremony, isn't it?"

"Yes, it is. Graduation is a happy event, but it's a bit sad to part ways with everyone, including Lady Harbara."

The options for the young ladies after graduation are not many. Some choose to serve at the royal castle, but most return to their territories. Some help their families, while others get married. Only a few of the young ladies remain in the capital. The graduation ceremony is also a day of farewells.

"Harbara, you're going to be involved in the business you've been working on, and you plan to return to your territory after the wedding, right? You'll be busy there, so I don't know when we'll meet again."

"It makes me very happy to hear you say that, Lady Elina. I feel the same way. The last year was really enjoyable."

"…Harbara."

"I'm not lying. I've come to terms with it now. With him too."

Harbara didn't seem to be forcing herself. Among the young ladies whose engagements were broken, she had been particularly close to her fiancé. His departure had deeply hurt Harbara. But now, there was no shadow of that pain on her face.

"I'm also grateful to him."

"Huh?"

"…Honestly, if I had married him, I might not have been able to take such responsibility for my work. Because of that incident, I was able to persuade my parents. I gained the support of my entire family, and now I can continue with the development. It's all thanks to that incident."

For Harbara's parents, it was probably an attempt to help Harbara recover from her pain. He had supported Harbara's endeavors, but her father had not. However, she would now be able to take a more active role in her work. It wasn't a typical life for a young lady, but it was one that suited Harbara.

"I've also convinced my father about marriage, and I'll be busy with work for a while. I'm looking forward to it."

"You really sound excited. I'm glad, Harbara."

"Elina, you must be looking forward to it too, right? It might be challenging, but—"

At the mention of being excited, Elina's mind immediately turned to Alvis. Like Harbara, Elina was also grateful to Lillian. The life she would have with Alvis was something she would not have gained from her marriage to Gerald.

In the past year, their relationship had started with only formal conversations and letter exchanges. It changed during Alvis's birthday celebration. When Alvis was injured, Elina realized her feelings. She had spent less time with Alvis than with Gerald, but she was drawn to him. The change from just being a fiancée to being more aware of Alvis happened when they went out of the castle for the first time. Despite being the Crown Prince, Alvis went out without a guard, which seemed fresh to Elina. Gerald always used his position as the Crown Prince to manipulate those around him, but Alvis did not. At that time, Elina should have stopped him, but she didn't, perhaps because she felt a sense of security from Alvis's background as a former knight.

During their outing, they walked through the market, visited shops, and had trivial conversations. Alvis even gave her a gift. At the time, it was probably just a duty to his fiancée, but for Elina, it was special. Now, it was her most precious treasure. The pendant she received that day still hung around her neck. Elina gently touched it through her dress.

"It will be challenging, but I'm excited. I'm happy to become his bride, more so than joining the royal family."

"The Crown Prince is a bit of a handful, but he's definitely a better match for you than that guy."

"Thank you."

"Even though I'll be leaving the capital, please let me know if you need anything. My younger brother is friends with the Prince, so I can be of help in various ways."

"Hehe. I'll ask for your help then."

Laughing together, the two of them entered the auditorium where the ceremony was to be held.

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Finally, the engagement arc is coming to an end.

This is all thanks to everyone who has been reading. I am truly grateful. Thank you so much!!