Chapter 30

As the carriage swayed on the way back, Lionel leaned against Edith, narrowing his eyes fondly.

"Do you remember, Edith? ... The last time I came to the Oakridge family, just being in the carriage on the way back was so painful that it felt like my body was falling apart. You immediately noticed the change in my condition and took care of me."

"... At that time, you came to pick me up despite the strain. I was worried, but I was also delighted by your feelings."

"That's how my body was back then. Even though I still have some difficulties in my daily life, compared to then, it's like the difference between heaven and earth. ... As Laura, who came to greet you just now, said, you have brought a miracle to my life. When we first met, I said it was fine to consider it a one-year engagement, but... I wish to live with you for many more years, even decades if possible."

Lionel looked into Edith's eyes with a passionate gaze.

"As I told the Earl and Countess of Oakridge and your step-sister, I can't imagine spending my life with anyone but you. You might feel uneasy about continuing with me in this not yet fully recovered state... but I want to ask you again. Will you continue our engagement?"

"Lionel-sama..."

Edith, feeling tears welling up in her eyes, looked back at Lionel with a serious expression. Lionel continued.

"Of course, we can wait to get married until my body has recovered more and your concerns have been alleviated. But, thinking about how I would feel if you left me after this year, as we promised when I was given a year to live... it's unbearable."

Edith smiled at Lionel, who was slightly tense.

"How can I express how happy I am to hear your words? I truly love you, Lionel-sama. I only want to be by your side. ... However, my concerns are about something else..."

Edith lowered her eyes, remembering her step-sister Daria's words.

"I believe that your illness will surely be completely cured. ... But, as I mentioned before, I have lived a long time as a commoner and lack the manners and education befitting a noble, let alone a marquess's family. Many beautiful young ladies, who have received proper noble education, will likely gather around you once you are fully recovered. I worry that I might hold you back in the future..."

Lionel gently took Edith's soft hand.

"I will always protect you. Besides, there are more important things than noble manners and education. Edith, you have those qualities. Deep kindness, empathy, and a strong, pure heart. No one else has a heart as beautiful as yours."

Looking up at Lionel, Edith listened as he continued.

"I can't imagine walking through life with anyone but you. ... Even before I was ill, I saw many young ladies and there were talks of engagement with Eugenie, but I never felt my heart move for any of them. The only one who made me feel so cherished and whom I want to be with forever is you."

Lionel smiled as he gently pulled Edith into a light embrace.

"Edith, you are the only one for me for the rest of my life. I know this is selfish, but if your feelings are for me, I hope you will nod to my words."

Feeling her heart race as she was drawn into Lionel's breathtakingly beautiful arms, Edith looked up at him, surrendering.

"Lionel-sama. If it's really all right for me to stand by your side from now on... I would be delighted."

"Thank you, Edith."

Lionel's face lit up with joy, and he gently kissed Edith's slightly flushed cheek. Her cheeks quickly turned even redder.

"Also, there's one more thing I want to tell you. ... I am the eldest son, but given my illness and ongoing recovery, it's uncertain whether I will inherit the Granville Marquessate. The decision will ultimately be up to my father, whether it's me or my brother Craig. Is that all right with you?"

"Of course. Whether Lionel-sama inherits the Granville Marquessate or not is not a concern for me. I will be happy as long as I can be by your side."

"Thank you, Edith. I will cherish you."

Lionel tightened his embrace around Edith. Surprised by the strength in Lionel's arms, which had grown more robust, Edith felt her heart fill with happiness and leaned into his embrace.

Thank you all for your kind words and support. I feel much better now. Thank you so much. m(_ _)m