Refusing Your Ex-Husband’s Obsession: A Guide - Chapter 161

Chapter 161

Translator: Yonnee

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I began walking alongside the crown prince as he led the way.

“It’s the first time we’re alone together.”

“Yes, Your Highness.”

“Since Ciel guards you like a hunting dog, it was hard to find an opportunity.”

“…Is that so?”

“Wouldn’t you say Ciel was a bit too obvious?”

When I didn’t respond, he continued.

“Don’t be too tense. I’m simply curious about the woman Ciel has chosen.”

Honestly, I was curious too.

How well did he know Seo-yoon? If he had come to know about another Guide, would he still love her as described in the novel?

Despite sensing that the story wouldn’t anymore follow the novel’s progression, I still felt curious.

We reached the orangery in the garden. A tea table was set up under the elegant structure.

“Please, have a seat.”

A servant helped me into a chair, and hot tea was promptly poured into my cup.

“I hope it’s not too forward to ask, but is Her Eminence the Saintess also staying at the palace?”

I asked, thinking of seizing another chance if Seo-yoon was in the palace.

I didn’t quite understand why Ciel was so worried. As a fellow Guide, I shouldn’t be at risk from Seo-yoon, right?

Or was it because of something from the past?

While I sipped my tea, lost in thought, the crown prince finally responded.

“I wish she were. She’s always taken back to the temple. Yesterday, the High Priest himself came to fetch her, so I couldn’t do anything.”

“…I see.”

“More importantly, Lady. How did you captivate Ciel?”

His playful question left me pondering how to respond. Who would believe it if I said Ciel and I were married in a past life?

“Well…”

He laughed at my response.

“Even I can see Ciel is smitten.”

“……”

“Isn’t it strange? An Esper falling for a regular woman instead of a Guide.”

“…Is that so?”

“You might not know, but according to ancient records, Espers are destined to fall for Guides. I too didn’t know this blissful feeling until I met the Saintess.”

The crown prince seemed to be subtly sharing confidential information. Should I delve deeper?

No. I decided against it.

Not wanting to get entangled, I changed the subject.

“The tea is wonderful, Your Highness.”

“I’m glad you like it. Actually, this tea is Ciel’s favorite.”

“……”

He continued with a mischievous expression.

“But you know, the scent of this tea. Somehow it’s similar to your natural scent.”

“…My natural scent?”

“Ah, my apologies. That might have been inappropriate. But your natural scent is so strong I couldn’t help but notice. One can’t hold their breath forever, right?”

He chuckled lightly, savoring the tea’s aroma before taking a sip.

“It’s refreshing with a perfect hint of bitterness. It’s fascinating. Ciel has loved this tea for the longest time, and he ended up falling in love with a woman who emits its very scent.”

“……”

I was at a loss for words, increasingly uncomfortable, but he spoke again.

“I hope you’re not too uneasy. As you can see, I’m quite fond of not just you but your entire family. Oh, right. You caused quite a stir yesterday… I couldn’t help laughing seeing someone cause such a scene in the palace banquet hall.”

The crown prince burst into laughter. His refreshing smile and golden hair fluttering in the wind caught my eye.

I could see why he was the male lead, given his appearance and personality. In contrast, I could also see why Ciel, with his less affable nature and darker impression, was only the second male lead.

He, like me, had a darker side and was quite gloomy. A male lead should be bright and be more proactive with the female lead, right?

That’s how it’s supposed to be…

Or maybe my judgment’s biased because of my memories from the past?

Lost in thoughts about Ciel once more, the crown prince stopped laughing and spoke.

“Next time we have tea, I hope you won’t wear such an expression.”

“…I apologize, Your Highness.”

“It’s natural to be awkward at first. But strangely, I don’t want to be disliked by you…”

He looked somewhat embarrassed after speaking, then stood up.

“I’ll escort you back to your chambers.”

“Thank you, Your Highness.”

I sighed in relief that the meeting ended relatively quickly. The crown prince extended his arm, and I lightly placed my hand on it, barely touching.

“Is that enough to hold on to?”