Chapter 3

Lukas Hering -- I've heard that name before. Perhaps one of my fangirl colleagues mentioned him in conversation.

However, even hearing the family name, I can't tell which title he holds. Because I didn't review the social circles, I've completely forgotten the names of families other than the influential nobles.

Given his profession as a knight, he's probably not a bad person. It would be rude to ask about his title, so I'll look it up later. For now, I'll inform him of the additional conditions for the marriage.

"Lukas-sama, I apologize for not mentioning this earlier, but there are some things I would like you to observe during the marriage. To avoid complications, please don't incur debts or have affairs. Everything else is up to you."

"I promise. Of course, I expect the same from you, Viela-sama. I would be troubled if you decided to marry another man and changed your mind."

Viela, who never thought she would be worried about such things, was slightly taken aback and then chuckled.

"I have never had a single marriage proposal until I turned twenty-three. You needn't worry about me having affairs. Even though it's a contract, I swear to cherish my husband."

"I also swear to cherish my wife."

Lukas kissed the tips of Viela's fingers, which he still held. Even if it was a formal gesture, it made her blush. She hoped he would think her flushed face was due to the alcohol.

Viela genuinely felt that it was a good decision to attend the ball. Meeting a handsome, gentlemanly, and not overly formal young man of a suitable age was fortunate. She was grateful to Lukas for saving the von Ubert family from crisis.

"Lukas-sama, thank you very much."

"It's a convenient arrangement for me as well."

Lukas smiled and stood up.

"I have a reason to check with my parents, so I'll go home immediately to get their consent for the marriage. I'd like to contact you again tomorrow. Is your workplace the Technical Division of the Magic Bureau?"

"That's correct. How did you know?"

"Of course, it's you. I heard that there's a workaholic who dedicates their soul to the job in the Technical Division."

"U... Ufufufufu♡"

She could only laugh. Her resentment towards Clement, the likely source of the rumor, grew.

"If you're going home, I can take a shortcut and drop you off at your place before heading to my mansion. Would you like that, Viela-sama?"

"Thank you for your offer. I would be grateful if you could do that."

She happily accepted the offer, saving on the carriage fare. Thus, Viela was dropped off at her apartment by the comfortable carriage Lukas had arranged, and they parted ways.

The next morning, Viela walked lightly down the corridor of the western wing, heading to her usual workplace in the Technical Division of the Magic Bureau.

However, her steps stopped just before the workplace. The red-haired young man, who was a target of her vigilance, was looking out the window at the scenery outside.

(Why is my encounter rate with Clement-sama so high even though I arrive early? I don't want to meet him if I can help it.)

Despite this, the corridor was unavoidable if she wanted to reach the technical office. Viela tried to pass by him quietly, but of course, he noticed her.

"Good morning, Viela-sempai."

"Good... morning, Clement-sama."

While maintaining a smile, Viela felt his probing gaze and pasted a smile on her face.

"You seemed to leave the ball early last night, despite saying you were serious about it."

She had quietly informed only her younger sister about her return home. Viela was not the type of young lady who drew attention. She and Lukas had taken a back route to the carriage stand to avoid drawing attention. Still, knowing that her actions were being monitored made her feel uneasy. She had no obligation to report that she had found a husband.

"Yes, I decided there was no further need for the ball and returned home early."

"No further need for the ball... Are you planning not to attend anymore?"

"Yes, I won't be looking for a husband anymore."

"I see. I think it's a wise decision."

Clement smiled happily.

(Why are you so pleased that I keep getting delayed in marriage!? Or did you think it was annoying for a subordinate who can be easily ordered around to be active in the social circle? You're as cruel as ever... But I'm sorry. I've found a husband who is even more handsome than you!)

Her spirit, now at its strongest, could return a smile even when mocked.

"Since that's the case, I'll take my leave. Please be careful not to get injured during your work or training, Clement-sama."

"Yes, please work hard, Viela-sempai."

"Thank you."

Clement left without any new orders or attempts to engage her, and Viela let out a sigh of relief.