Chapter 53

Since there was a request to see a conversation with Dante, I made this one about Dante! It's short, but I hope you enjoy it!

This is a story from one particular after-school time—

"By the way, Dante, are you still in touch with Merlin?"

In the empty dormitory lounge, Cecilia asked Dante this question. Merlin was the woman who had been the top of the assassination organization, Hyart, which Dante used to belong to. After Cecilia's kidnapping incident, the organization was dismantled and reorganized. It is said to now operate as a small, elite covert organization. Surprised by her unexpected words, Dante's eyes widened.

"With Merlin? Why?"

"Well, just out of curiosity?"

Dante raised an eyebrow at her hesitant response.

"I do keep in touch, but it's more like we just report to each other. We don't really contact each other regularly."

"Really?"

"Yeah. I'm not part of the organization anymore, and if it were to come out that I, a friend, was regularly in contact with an illegal armed organization, it wouldn't look good for Oscar. ...So, what's up? Need some help with something?"

Cecilia shook her head frantically at Dante's words.

"No! No! I was just wondering if Merlin is doing well."

"Well?"

"Yeah. I was thinking I hadn't heard about her injuries."

Dante's eyes widened in surprise.

"You're worried?"

"Well, she did take care of me."

"She's fine. She's recovered to the point where she could be called by the Sylvie family at any time."

"Ahaha..."

Cecilia let out a wry smile. That offer was apparently still valid. Ideally, she wouldn't need to rely on it, but in this situation, where a bad ending was just around the corner, she might not have a choice.

"Anyway, if anything comes up, please let me know."

"Anytime."

Even after leaving the organization, it seems he would still act as a liaison. Dante said this with a slight smile.

"Still, Cecilia, you're as kind as ever. Normally, people don't worry about the kidnapper who took them."

"But it's not like Merlin made them do it... And besides, it was my fault that she got hurt... ...And..."

"And?"

"I hope you two keep in touch."

"Huh?"

"Aren't you two family?"

At her words, Dante's eyes widened significantly. He remained frozen for a moment.

"You were worried about me?"

"Was I worried...? I just thought it would be nice if you two got along. That's all."

"I see."

Dante smiled and chuckled, ruffling Cecilia's hair.

"Hey!!"

"You're such a good kid, Cecilia."

"Y-You're making fun of me!?"

Dante shook his head, still smiling, at her confused voice.

"No, no. I just really like you."

"Huh?"

"What?"

Another voice sounded, and both Cecilia and Dante turned to the door. There stood Gilbert, frozen in place. His eyes were fixed on the two of them, who were playfully interacting.

After laughing and shaking his shoulders, Dante suddenly hugged Cecilia tightly.

Volume 1 of the manga is now available!

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