[TKOSINM] 56 — A Contract Relationship

         “It’s alright. You don’t have to worry about it.”

The Great Kristen shook his head at Irene’s words because he thought that Irene was thanking him for allowing her to stay in this house. Actually, the real meaning as to why Irene had thanked him was because he had opened his heart to her. She also wanted to thank him for trying to reach out to Noel. But it didn’t seem necessary to say that. Thus, with those unspoken words lingering in her throat, Irene left the room with Noel.

Unlike when she went in, Irene felt at ease when she came out.

“More than I thought…”

Irene turned her head when she heard Noel’s relieved voice. Then, Noel said with a slight smile.

“I’m glad my grandfather likes you more than I thought.”

Irene was vaguely aware of that from his grandfather’s nice attitude, but when Irene heard that remark from him, she was convinced.

Noel took the first step after closing the door and Irene walked along behind him. Tom then came up and informed them that the new room for Irene was ready and led them to it. After entering, Noel told him to leave them because he wanted to be alone with Irene, at which Tom showed a look of curiosity. However, he complied and then stepped out quietly.

“Now I have something to make sure of with you.”

Irene raised her eyebrows at Noel’s vague statement and prompted him to continue. Noel took a piece of paper and pen from the desk and then headed to the table.

“Do you remember what I said to you that I had something to do with you?”

“Ah, yes.”

Irene nodded straightforwardly at Noel’s question. There was no way she could remember what she had heard in passing in the hallway. Not noticing her blank expression, Noel continued to speak.

“Really, it’s not a big deal. It is just that we have to set a few rules in order to carry on with this contract relationship between you and me. So, I’m writing a contract.”

“A contract?”

Irene blinked her eyes. Then, Noel nodded his head belatedly at her. Please read the original translation and latest updates at onedaythreeautumns(dot)com if you’re reading this anywhere else the translation is stolen.

         It was basic and important to draw up a contract before it was implemented. The reason was to not make the other person feel uncomfortable with the sudden variables or change of heart.

         Of course, Irene did not think that such a change would happen to her and Noel, but it was good to make sure of everything.

         “First of all, the purpose of our contract.”

         Irene nodded at Noel’s words.

         “For me, it’s to become the Grand Duke, while for you, it is to cut off ties from your family.”

         Although Irene had won the heart of the Great Kristen, Noel had not yet taken over the title. And although Irene had left her house, she was still in the Chase’s family. Thus, both of their goals could be achieved through marriage.

         “That’s the purpose of the contract, but there’s a lot more to decide.”

Noel started writing.  The words ‘Clause 1’ appeared elegantly in black ink on the paper.

         “We can’t immediately break off our relationship just because we’re married, and our goals have been achieved. It’s because of the surrounding eyes. If it’s known that we’ve signed a contract marriage to leave your familial home and for me to inherit the title, we both will be in trouble.”

         “If that is the case, then…”

         “I’m saying divorce is impossible right now. At least for two years. We must stay married for two years. In other words, you can’t break up with me even if you hate me.

Is that fine for you, Irene?”

         “...”

         Irene was silent for a moment. She didn’t know how to respond to Noel’s question. In truth she was feeling complicated. She gave it some thought, and she knew that surely, it would be very difficult to force a relationship with someone you hated. However, …

         “It’s alright.”

         “Please think a little bit more…”

         “There’s no way I would hate you Noel.”

         “...”

         “I think we will become quite close by then.”

         At Irene’s unexpected words, Noel looked up at her quietly. He could tell that Irene had changed since he had first met her. Unlike back then, when Irene seemed to be in a hurry and desperate, she now seemed quite comfortable. Her flurry of anxiousness had gone. Noel felt slightly pleased knowing he played a big part in this.

         Thinking that, Noel smiled and answered her.

         “I see.”

         Then, he spoke seriously.

         “So, the contract period is two years. Even if you change your mind before that, you can’t break the contract, Irene.”

         Irene nodded at Noel’s words. She was fully aware of that. Upon seeing her agreement, Noel continued to talk.

         “Then, this depends on your approval. Please be honest and talk to me if you object to this.”

         “What is it?”

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