[TIDK] 118 – Viktor’s Gift

Continuing their conversation, Viktor proposed, "Let's set aside the idea of donation-based admission. There's no need to squander money on something unnecessary. I can make a simple phone call and arrange for one of those nobles who seek to gain favour with me to become your recommender."

"You would do that for me?" Scarlett inquired, touched by the offer.

"It is something I also require," Viktor replied.

Scarlett's gratitude spilt forth as she said, "Thank you."

With a sense of thirst, Viktor emptied his teacup and posed another question, "So, I will handle the admission process, and you can invest the profits from this mansion and vineyard into constructing an aircraft."

Upon hearing his proposal, Scarlett hesitated momentarily before asking, "Does a sense of patriotism drive this?"

Viktor couldn't help but chuckle at Scarlett's question and provided an explanation, "Since the age of fourteen, I have been in the Navy, living a life as a soldier longer than my civilian life. Every sailor in Salantier receives education on patriotism and harbours a strong disdain for pirates. I have fought countless battles and no longer desire to partake in war."

Scarlett, who had been lost in her own thoughts, simply replied, "Okay."

"Before you simply say 'okay,' take some time to reflect," Viktor advised, meeting Scarlett's gaze.

"If it becomes known that you possess the ability to construct an aircraft, you will never find comfort in life. Even in Vestina, they would relentlessly pursue you," he continued, expressing his concerns.

Scarlett's contemplation deepened as she absorbed his words. She had failed to keep Viktor's secret hidden, ultimately exposing everything to the Royal Police. Could she genuinely keep her knowledge of the technology concealed?

Finally, she spoke, her voice steady, "In that case, please end my life before that happens."

Her request took Viktor aback, but he understood the gravity of her words. Scarlett extended her hand for a handshake, implying agreement.

Regardless of her true sentiments towards Viktor Dumfelt, Scarlett viewed this as a favourable proposition, considering themselves as fellow inhabitants of the same land. In her eyes, it was only natural that when a lady offered her hand for a handshake, it should be accepted without hesitation. Yet, Viktor hesitated as if he had something to convey. After Scarlett urged him with a subtle gesture, he finally extended his hand and firmly shook hers.

♔♔♔

In the days following their return from the vineyard, Scarlett couldn't stop talking about her experience. She would recount every detail to anyone who would listen, including Andrei. However, Andrei had grown weary of hearing about it and bluntly expressed his frustration, saying, "Enough with the vineyard already. I haven't even been there, but I'm already sick of it."

Ignoring his remarks, Scarlett's excitement persisted. She exclaimed, "No, I'm so excited... I'll go as soon as the gates open!"

Andrei, trying to bring her back to reality, advised her to focus on her work. Scarlett retorted, "That's too much, really," but Andrei remained steadfast in his insistence.

Scarlett, who had limited travel experiences, had become fixated on the memories of her vineyard trip. It consumed her thoughts and conversations.

As they were engrossed in their discussion, a servant from the Dumfelt household arrived, carrying a gift box. Intrigued by its contents, Scarlett eagerly tore off the wrapping paper. Her eyes widened with delight as she opened the box, revealing a pair of exquisite skates with white and silver blades nestled inside.

Observing Scarlett's inability to hide her excitement, Andrei leaned in for a closer look and inquired, "Why skates?"

"I don't know," Scarlett replied, her mind grappling with conflicting emotions. While it was a gift from her ex-husband, something she should discard, she couldn't bring herself to part with skates filled with cherished childhood memories.

Why did you give me ice skates….

There was a letter on the skate.

[If you're going to skate, see you in front of the store at nine o'clock.]

"What is wrong with you?" Andrei abruptly interrupted Scarlett's thoughts. "You can leave at nine because it's after work."

"I'm the boss; why would I need your permission?" Scarlett retorted; her frustration evident.

"I told you. My salary is at stake," Andrei explained, reminding Scarlett of the consequences of her actions.

Andrei's constant complaints became a nuisance, eventually forcing Scarlett to retreat upstairs and resume her work. With a heavy workload looming over her, she decided to sacrifice her sleep and dedicate every minute to completing her tasks.

Scarlett glanced at her watch as she worked tirelessly and paused momentarily, realising it was close to midnight. Fatigue weighed heavily on her, but she pressed on, determined to meet her deadlines.

Amidst her exhaustion and mounting stress, Scarlett couldn't comprehend why Viktor kept appearing by her side. He was undeniably selfish, always seeking something from her whenever he approached. It frustrated her to no end, leaving her to question his motives.

But I don't know what he wants…

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