Chapter 61

There was a streetlight near the bench, illuminating us.

The flame flickered in the wind, casting shadows, and I became acutely aware that I was out at night. Although I often go to the teahouse, night outings aren't that rare... but why am I so nervous?

Noah placed the wine cup on the bench and took out a wrapped snack from the bag. He placed it between us, making it easy for us to reach.

As always, his subtle consideration made me happy.

"It looks delicious."

After clasping my hands in prayer, I picked up one of the skewers, being careful not to let it fall apart. The bottom layer was a thin slice of baguette, topped with something that looked like braised meat. The top layer was probably a carrot, which was also quite dark.

I removed the skewer from the baguette. It was a bit larger than a mouthful, but I was worried it might fall apart if I bit into it. So, I used the skewer as a pick and took the carrot into my mouth.

It was braised in red wine.

It was very tender, well-cooked, and the richness of the red wine combined with the sweetness of the carrot made it delicious. I thought the meat must also be braised in red wine.

Thinking that, I bit into the meat and the baguette. Some crumbs fell, but it was okay since we were outside.

"Mmm, delicious. It's topped with red wine braised meat."

The beef, which was as tender as it could be, was still delicious even though it was a bit cold. It had no strong flavor and no greasy aftertaste. The grilled baguette was crispy, providing a nice accent.

"Yeah, it's good. This one is octopus and olive marinated. The vegetables are also marinated and chopped, spread on the bread."

"That sounds good too."

"It's quite tangy and refreshing."

"I like this kind of thing too."

I thought the same when I had lunch outside with Emma the other day. Maybe it's because the night breeze is gentle and comfortable.

"Maybe we should build a big gazebo in the new house's garden."

"That would be lovely. It would be great for reading books too."

"Yeah, it would be convenient to have a door from the library to the outside."

"The renovation of the mansion is already complete, right?"

"Unfortunately, it seems we won't be able to move into the new house for a while. It shouldn't be a problem to add more renovations. Personally, I'd like to get married and live together as soon as possible."

Caught off guard, I almost spat out the wine I had just put in my mouth. I managed to swallow it, but I couldn't taste anything. Seeing me choke, Noah laughed softly.

"What's wrong, you're overreacting."

"I didn't expect you to say something like that so suddenly..."

"It's not that sudden, though."

While patting my back, Noah's lips curved into a smile. His eyes, hidden behind thick bangs and black-rimmed glasses, were probably gently narrowed.

After coughing lightly, I took another sip of wine, a bit wary of what Noah might say next. Seeing this, Noah laughed again, amused.

"By the way, I haven't properly thanked you. Thank you for the flowers and the letter."

"I'm glad you liked them. I don't want to make you anxious."

"The anxiety flew away with the flowers and the letter. Hey... can I write a letter too? Would it be a bother to have it delivered to the dormitory?"

"No, not at all... is that okay?"

"Yes, if you don't mind."

Noah's voice sounded cheerful.

It made me happy, and I smiled.

"I'd be happy if you wrote one."

"It might end up being just a review of what I ate that day."

"That would be cute too."

"...You're such a dork."

Even though I said it jokingly, he replied in a sweet voice. Feeling my heart race, I took a sip of wine to cover it up.

Noah reached for the snack again. The atmosphere changed with just that, so I decided to choose a snack too.

Noah picked one with cheese and tomato. I chose one with an omelet and tomato sauce. The red of the tomato sauce and the yellow of the omelet were beautiful. When I bit into it, I could tell the omelet had vegetables mixed in. The crunchy texture was delicious and went well with the tangy tomato sauce. Yes, this was delicious too.

"...I made you feel bad today."

"I feel worse for you. You must have been dealing with that kind of thing for a long time, right?"

"Because of my looks, I thought I was used to it. But it's troublesome when they don't listen."

"You must have had a hard time. I'm really glad you're off guard duty."

"Yeah... I feel restless not being by your side. I can't bear the thought of something happening to you."

Noah took a sip of wine and looked at me. His eyes, peeking out from under his thick bangs, were filled with worry.

Noah had it harder.

Noah, who had to spend every day with the princess, must have had a harder time. Even now, he can't do as he pleases and has various restrictions to avoid meeting the princess... yet he still comes to see me.

Because I felt bad.

"You... should take better care of yourself. You've had a harder time and felt worse than I have."

"Whether one has it harder or not, it's no reason not to worry about you."

Hearing those words in his gentle voice, my chest felt tight. My heart, feeling like it was being squeezed, seemed to be shouting that I liked Noah. The overflow of emotions turned into tears.

"I've asked Lars and the others for help, but it's complicated. I can't be by your side, but I have to rely on others... I know it's not the right time, but I'm jealous."

Not just the words, but the jealousy in his voice.

Even at a time like this, I felt happy, and a mix of emotions overflowed as tears.

"...Dork."

The only thing I could manage to say was a curse, but Noah, looking happy, patted my head. His hand was so warm that I cried again.