Life as a Tower Maid: Locked up with the Prince - Side Story 4
Side Story 4
Translator: Yonnee
—
“Even if I’m really bad at my job?”
“Nobody is good at something from the start.”
Albert said nonchalantly. That was true, but… I chuckled and turned to face him, poking his cheek.
“There’s one over here.”
The most capable person I know.
“Thanks for saying that, but….”
Albert, having set the towel down, began to caress my chin.
And unlike before, there was a sensual intent in his touch.
“If you tempt me, I can’t just let you go.”
“…I wasn’t doing any of that though. Should I refrain from saying things like this in the future then?”
“If you refrain while knowing how much I’ll yearn, are you doing it on purpose?”
Albert playfully glared at me, and I awkwardly laughed. But only for a moment, as his hot lips touched my neck and then disappeared.
His eyes still glowed with a red hue, like the setting sun.
“No, absolutely not.”
One thing I learned while being with Albert was that it was best to respond promptly.
If I stared at Albert’s beauty for too long, I’d end up being led entirely by his desires.
This was wisdom gained from experience.
“…We should get going.”
Albert, sounding somewhat reluctant, pulled me up from the tub and into his arms.
His tone still held a hint of reluctance, but it didn’t seem like he was going to touch me further.
Now, he’d carry me out and help me get dressed.
Having repeated this routine for about two and a half months, being in Albert’s arms felt more natural than walking.
…Oh, this is another serious topic.
Not good. Not good. With a determined look, I whispered to Albert.
“Albert, if you keep doing everything for me like this, I’ll develop bad habits.”
“And what bad habits are those?”
“I’ll end up relying on you for everything.”
“I like the sound of that. I hope you develop that habit soon.”
Albert answered with a bright smile. Knowing he meant it sincerely, I couldn’t say anything more.
I never win these arguments, but I don’t feel bad. Instead, my heart swells with happiness.
I love how you make me feel loved every moment.
* * *
We headed toward the carriage prepared in front of the imperial palace.
Considering our magical powers, we could have teleported, but I purposely suggested a three-night, four-day journey by carriage.
The charm of traveling is in riding the carriage, camping out, and staying in different countries along the way.
Teleportation was simple, but it skipped many processes. In those skipped moments, we lose many chances to create memories.
“Jung-in….”
In front of the carriage stood Blanc, ready and waiting for me.
I hugged Blanc tightly. His silver hair flowing around me was like wisteria blossoms.
“It’s been a while.”
After a brief hug, Blanc released me under Albert’s sharp gaze, smiling brightly.
I couldn’t remember the last time we saw each other properly. Even after a long time, his characteristic languid aura was still there.
“I’m here too, you know.”
Alexander peeked out from behind Blanc.
He was so short that I hadn’t seen him properly. It was funny considering his original form.
I was so glad to see familiar faces again.
I had heard that becoming a full-fledged dragon wasn’t difficult since they retained their memories, but seeing it in person felt different.
Since the existence of Rosé Artius had disappeared, the dragon that helped overcome the new challenges was even more special.
I extended my hand to Alexander with a smile.
“I knew we’d meet again.”
“Took the words right out of my mouth.”
As the warm atmosphere lingered, a small cough came from behind.
Turning my head, I faced some familiar faces.
“Ah, hello, Lady Jung-in. I am Leona, assigned to escort you on this journey.”
Leona, still upright and courteous as ever.
“And I am Mercy, accompanying you by His Majesty’s command!”
Mercy winked at me with a much livelier face than before.
“I am Schubert, also honored to join this journey by His Majesty’s glorious command.”
Schubert, showing extra courtesy in front of the empress.
…What is going on here? I thought it would just be a simple vacation for Blanc and me, but the scale of this trip seemed much larger than expected.
There was only one person who could plan such a thing. I turned to Albert, who responded with a gentle smile.
“Liam will join us later.”
“……”
“Isn’t this what imperial power is for? I thought I’d use it once.”
Albert approached and whispered to me, still speechless.
“They all wanted to see you.”
He always reads my mind so quickly. Wherever, whenever.
I felt like I had just received a surprise gift.
Albert whispered in my ear.
“You’ll ride in the carriage with Leona and Mercy. Have a wonderful time…”
After a brief pause, he kissed my cheek lightly.
“See you later.”
Seeing his trust in me, a light feeling bubbled up inside me.
And here, I couldn’t help but think.
Isn’t this what happiness is?
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