[TKOSINM] 222 - Night Before the Journey to the North

 “Did you ever get hurt there?”

“...”

“If Viscounty Friedan remains a bad memory for you, I’m sorry, but I can’t let you go. You are the most important thing to me.”

Noel’s voice was resolute. Irene looked at Noel quietly, and she shook her head with a soft smile on her face.

“It is a place full of good memories for me. However, since my aunt’s serious condition has also been reported to my family, it is highly likely that I will meet them there. However...”

Irene clenched her fists.

That habit again.

Noel looked at Irene’s clenched hand and clicked his tongue slightly. It was a habit that came out whenever she pledged something to her or needed strength. Noel didn’t like that habit. He was worried that she might hurt her hand. Without knowing his thoughts, Irene continued to talk. 

“I am not worried or afraid. Because it’s already over, I am confident that I will not be shaken.”

“I see...”

In response to her words, Noel stretched out his hand and wrapped Irene’s clenched fist. Then he began to straighten her fingers one by one, interlacing his own fingers between her fingers. Irene’s eyes widened as she watched the scene.

“Next time, please hold my hand. It’s okay to hurt me.”

“Yes?”

What do you mean? 

Irene, unaware of her mannerisms, found Noel’s behaviour sudden. Besides...

It, it bothers me.

His fingers, which fit snugly through the cracks, bothered her in particular. Her face became hot, and her heart pounded. 

It’s not the first time he’s touched me, but it always feels like it’s the first time—a new and trembling feeling. 

She had felt that this feeling would not change even after several years passed.

“If Irene thinks so, that’s it. Do as you please.”

“...Noel.”

“My heart will always follow your heart.”

It might be just my feeling, but.

It feels like a confession...

Even though she knew it wasn’t, her heart pounded like it was her first love, and she couldn’t control it.

The room was bright, but it was dark outside. If only one light were turned off, the room would soon become dark. Irene’s face turned red as she became conscious of the large bed lying behind her.

It’s dangerous… this kind of atmosphere.

At the same time, as the feeling of a sense of crisis arose, Irene’s heart began to waver little by little. 

I want to hold his clasped hands tighter and those lips that speak only warm and pleasant words...

What the hell are you thinking?

Belatedly, Irene shook her head from side to side. She recalled those thoughts inwardly as she came to her senses. To have such a bizarre thought of a person who did her a favour.

That was how Irene controlled her desires and controlled her heart...

“…Irene, I’m sorry.”

He suddenly bowed his head and leaned towards Irene. His clasp on her hand grew stronger.

As soon as his lips carefully approached, Irene’s eyes widened in surprise. But she didn’t push him or shake his hand. As Irene’s eyes flitted open, he wrapped his opposite hand around Irene’s waist.

It felt as if time stopped.

As she smelled his body, Irene wondered.

What was he sorry about? 

With those queries, Irene dug deeper into his arms.

In the face of such a long journey ahead, the night between the two of them only deepened.

♔ Vol. 3 Part 10. Reunion (2) ♔

Not long after a letter from Viscountcy Friedan came, Irene immediately prepared for the journey.

Viscounty Friedan was located in the north, far from the capital, so there was more to prepare than expected. About two weeks’ worth of food, thick robes to protect from the cold, a change of clothes and a dedicated carriage.

It took about a week to prepare.

“Don’t worry, go there.”

Upon hearing about Irene’s situation, the Grand Duke was sending her off.

“You’ve become the Grand Duke, but you don’t have to take on duties and act immediately.”

The Great Kristen spoke to Noel, concerned he might be burdened about leaving his job, but Noel was not in the least worried. It was because there was a capable subordinate named Tom. However, Noel did not dare to express his inner feelings.

“Yes. Thank you.” 

“I’m worried about my darling. It must be freezing in the north right now... You must be careful not to catch a cold.”

When the Grand Duke spoke to Irene, Irene replied with a soft smile standing next to Noel.

“Thank you. I’ll come back and see you.”

 “Yes, have a safe trip.”

After saying their goodbyes, Noel and Irene got on the winter carriage. Around the carriage, several Ram mercenaries were assigned to escort, and Louiselle was already on her horse, ready to leave.

Not long after the two of them got into the carriage, the wheels around the chain began to roll.