Chapter 36

"I'm glad your appetite has returned."

As I took a bite of the sea bream in cream sauce and relaxed my cheeks, Wendy, who was sitting across from me, chuckled softly.

This was the cafeteria at noon. The sunlight was filtered through the thin curtains by the window, and we were having lunch. Today's menu included sea bream in cream sauce, mushroom terrine, baguette, and chocolate tart for dessert.

The sea bream, tender and flaky, was coated in a rich cream sauce, which was incredibly delicious. The sweetness of the onions and carrots was well incorporated into the sauce. Scooping up the sauce with the baguette was also delightful.

"Seems like you're in a particularly good mood, Wendy?"

When I pointed out to my friend, who had been smiling all morning, her face turned red. Perhaps she hadn't been aware of it.

"…Was I that obvious?"

"Very. Did something good happen… maybe you went out with the captain yesterday?"

"How did you know? …Didn't I tell you about the letter I received before? He kept his promise."

While poking at the mushroom terrine with her fork, Wendy spoke softly. Her voice was gentle and adorable, as if she were showing me a precious treasure.

"It was a wonderful time."

"Yes, Lady Ragine also loves the theater. So, we made a promise to see an opera next. It was incredibly beautiful, like a dream."

Wendy's pink eyes sparkled beautifully. Her radiant appearance made my heart leap with joy.

I had heard that Captain Ragine was well-respected, skilled with a sword, and decisive. Such a person would surely not hurt Wendy.

"By the way, did he… ask you to 'keep meeting like this'?"

At the unexpected words, I leaned forward over the table. Wendy was smiling wryly at my reaction, but it was understandable. Love stories are intriguing, and when it's about a close friend, you want to hear more.

"Of course, Wendy, you accepted, right?"

"Well, I'm from a minor noble family, and he's the heir to a marquisate. I know we don't match, but I still like him. I wonder if I'm good enough. But… I shouldn't think of myself as 'just me.' Even though the difference in status can't be changed, I want to strive to be more suitable."

We've known each other for a long time since she started working at the library, but I might have never seen Wendy shine like this before. It wasn't just that she looked more beautiful; she was dazzling. That must be what love does.

"Hey, does that mean… you'll eventually get married?"

"Yes. He said he'll come to propose soon."

This is typical of the nobility.

They don't date and then get married; they date with the intention of marriage, which is called an engagement.

Thinking about this, maybe Noah is accommodating me. Proposing marriage by saying "come be my wife" is probably natural for a noble.

"I'm so happy for you, Wendy. I'm glad you're happy."

I know how difficult it is for nobles to marry for love. I genuinely wanted to bless Wendy for achieving her love.

"Thank you. What about you, Alicia? Did you meet the person you like?"

"Y-Yes… how did you know?"

"Your appetite gave it away."

I exaggeratedly shrugged my shoulders as Wendy chuckled. Returning to my upright posture, I tore a small piece of baguette and put it in my mouth.

"I learned his name, what he looks like, and what he does."

"That's great. Was it wonderful?"

"Yes… it was. …He seems to like me too. He seems to have noticed my feelings, but I couldn't clearly express mine."

"Oh, why not? Just saying 'I like you too' would be enough."

"…That's embarrassing."

Just thinking about it made my voice waver with embarrassment.

I cleared my throat and took a sip of water from my goblet. After a deep breath, I started on the chocolate tart.

The glossy tart, adorned with gold leaf like a night sky, was beautifully presented. The fork easily sank into the cookie crust.

"He likes you too, you know. You shouldn't be embarrassed."

"But…"

"Heavy as it is, the chocolate isn't as sweet as I expected. Encouraged by the smooth texture, I finished the tart in one go.

"Besides, he'll probably be happy if you tell him."

"Happy?"

"Yes. You were happy to know he liked you, right? He'll be happy to hear your feelings too."

"…You're right."

Wendy's words made sense.

Using embarrassment and anxiety as excuses to not express my feelings is not just being sly; it's impossible to keep this relationship going forever.

"Thank you, Wendy. I feel braver now."

"Sure. Can you introduce me to him sometime?"

I know him well too.

But I can't say that now. Even though she's my best friend, I can't reveal what Noah is hiding.

"Yes, I want you to meet him too."

"I look forward to it."

I nodded, feeling guilty inside as I smiled at my friend.

The sunlight dimmed, and I glanced at the window, noticing thick clouds flowing behind the thin curtain. It felt as if the temperature had dropped.

"Will the engagement be announced officially?"

"Since Lady Ragine has her position, it might be a grand affair."

"If you need anything, our shop can help."

"Of course."

By the way, what happened to the preparations I made when I was engaged? My angry mother had told me to leave everything to her, so I hadn't even thought about it. I should check when I get home.

Suddenly, the bell rang.

I reflexively looked at my watch; lunch break was almost over.

People around us started to stand up.

We also stood up with our lunch trays and headed to return them.

"Hey, Wendy. When you get engaged, tell me more about it."

"Sure. I want to hear about you too."

A smile escaped my lips at her happy expression. I probably had a similar look on my face.

When I touched my cheek, it felt slightly warm.