[TKOSINM] 114 - Just Look At Me

“Because if you don’t become the Grand Duke, you can die,” he stated.

“Well, that...” Irene could not find the proper words to reply to his sombre statement. The world of nobility politics was foreign and still new to her.

“The Grand Duke of Kristen is a long-standing family with power and wealth, not even lacking in comparison to the Imperial Family. Some even say that the power of the Grand Duke exceeds that of the Imperial Family. Dozens and hundreds of heads are cut off for the throne, so would being the Grand Duke of Kristen be peaceful? Rather, it’s a position overflowing with blood. That is this place.” Noel continued. Since his birth, this was the fate he was to be born into. A powerful family meant power struggles. No matter the position you were in. One could only come out on top and be weary for the rest of their life, or be forced into a subservient position, and face unconditional threats and danger. If one let their guard down, their life could be over. There was no in between. 

“The former emperor supported me, but the current emperor is supportive of Ascardo. He secretly supported him from behind, hoping that he would become the Grand Duke and be his strength. But you showed up, and my relationship with my grandfather has improved. Furthermore, it is more than likely that I will succeed the Grand Duchy. As you and I have officially announced our marriage, it has become more difficult for them to deal with you and I quietly. In this situation, what kind of decision do you think His Majesty will make?”

“That’s…”

Irene swallowed her saliva. Unlike the refreshing backdrop of the flower garden, the atmosphere between the two was heavy.

“I would choose Noel.”

“Yes, but no.”

Noel shook his head and Irene looked at him puzzled. Yes but no?

“His Majesty will choose me as the future Grand Duke, but he will try to contact you, not me.”

“Oh…? Why would His Majesty call on me...It is Noel who will become the Grand Duke.”

“Because Irene is the one who can control the Grand Duke’s family. Because you are the one loved by me and my grandfather.”

At Noel’s words, Ireen blinked. It didn’t feel real. She never thought she would have such power.

“Also, if Irene becomes the Lady of the House, she will know all about the Grand Duke. All information will be accessible to her. From the Duchy’s finances, to the number of enlisted soldiers. So, His Majesty will ingratiate you, to dig up information.”

“Oh...I see. I never thought of that. I was only planning on marriage.”

Noel’s story felt like it came from another world. She was dazed. He looked at her concerned and asked, “Do you feel pressured?”

Irene hesitated at his question, then nodded. Why wouldn’t she feel the pressure? It seemed too much of a responsibility that far outweighed her own abilities. She was already worried. What if she made a mistake, and it affected Noel? Would she be able to do well on her own? 

The complicated relationships she found herself in gave her a headache. Noel looked down at Irene, who could not find the words to express herself, and smiled softly. He then bent down to her, who was concentrating her gaze to the ground and whispered.

“Don’t worry.” 

When his face suddenly came into sight, she raised her head in surprise.

“There is no need to feel pressured. You don’t have to care about power relationships. You just…”

“...”

Noel held Irene’s hand, which had been hanging by her side weakly, and raised it to his lips. He pressed his lips against the tip of her fingers. The ring they wore sparkled in the sun.

At the touch of his warm lips, Irene hardened. His gaze was unwavering.

Noel kissed Irene’s fingertips deeply, and raised his head. Seeing Irene frozen, he raised the corners of his mouth.

“Just look at me, only pay attention to me.”

//another tl, ‘only care about me’.

The landscape which had been an unnoticed background, became a colourful garden. At the heart of it was Noel. At that moment, the wind blew and Noel’s silver grey hair shook.

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