HPDBC Chapter 18
Chapter 18
Ania gazed at the carriage, moving away outside the window for a while.
When it was no longer visible, she took a deep breath and looked down at the small garden below the mansion.
The garden, once filled with various colors of flowers, was now illuminated in a golden yellow hue.
It was because, in the winter, when the other flowers withered and returned to the ground, only the goldenglows remained.
Despite the weather, they continued to bloom brightly.
Goldenglows were flowers that bloomed steadfastly regardless of the weather.
Ania liked that about them.
Looking at the unwavering garden always brought a sense of tranquility to her heart.
However, even while gazing at her favorite flowers, Ania’s heart sank into complexity.
‘I apologize for yesterday.’
What was he apologizing for?
Since she was the one who didn’t want to meet him, she couldn’t understand the reason for the apology.
Was it an apology for not answering?
Or an apology for being ignored?
In any case, it was not a warm expression.
Ultimately, it meant that his affection for Ania’s affection had faded.
Ania felt her body trembling with the sensation of sinking deep into dark water.
No, it wasn’t just a feeling; it was a reality.
Her lower abdomen was tingling, and her waist was tensing up.
‘My body’s condition is worse than I thought...’
Why does it always hurt so much every month?
If I become more sensitive while I feel down... I might end up getting angry with Edward again.
In that case, Edward would probably hate me even more.
Despite the pain in her body, Ania found it amusing that she, who was concerned about such things first, laughed.
Even though she made a promise not to be betrayed this time, not to give her heart first, thoughts of that man had gradually filled her mind.
Even though she made such resolutions, she constantly sought affection from him to the point of absurdity.
However, even if she fell apart like this, Ania didn’t want to let go of Edward.
She would gather the pieces her overflowing emotions pushed away.
***
“With this, let’s conclude the demonstration.”
The vast circular arena was filled with the pungent smell of gunpowder, and the firearm demonstration event ended successfully.
The crown prince clapped approvingly on the podium on the stage.
There were no accidents.
Of course, the nobles’, who emphasized the sword’s sanctity and legitimacy, were irritated.
However, the era of firearms was coming.
Currently, the musket took a whole minute to load and fire, making it seem like an unimpressive weapon.
However, someday, this weapon will change the course of this world.@@@@
“Haha, as they say, you truly are a well-mannered person. Feel free to sit comfortably. No need for formalities in front of me.”
Although I thought it was just a courteous remark, Eldrigan casually crossed one leg and comfortably took his seat as soon as the door closed.
“I appreciate your direct invitation. It is an honor beyond words.”
“No need to be so formal. I just wanted to have a conversation with you.”
He chuckled.
“Opening up about concerns is not easy. It can be burdensome. So, let me ask first. How... enjoyable is married life?”
When I reacted with a slightly surprised expression, Eldrigan laughed heartily.
“Ahaha. Doesn’t seem too enjoyable, huh?”
“...”
“Marrying the woman known as the most beautiful in the Empire isn’t bringing much joy... You’re quite the ambitious man.”
“No, Your Highness. It is enjoyable.”
“I was joking.”
He laughed as if he found it amusing and sipped his red tea.
“I understand well enough. Ania seems like a tiresome one.”
“You seem to know my wife well.”
“Yes. She was quite a beloved younger sister. I was quite surprised when she said she wanted to marry with her volition.”
“Did My Lady... say it herself?”
“Seems like you’re hearing it for the first time.”
He chuckled with an intrigued tone.
“Didn’t Ania tell you?”
“... She did not.”
“Truly an unchanging child.”
The crown prince rose from his seat, approached the window, and looked outside.
The once-lit guest room was tinged with crimson as the evening festivities unfolded.
“That child rarely expresses what’s inside. She always expects those around her to accommodate, thinking it’s only natural.”
I listened silently, unsure of how to respond.
“That might make you feel a bit frustrated and annoyed. Isn’t that right?”
“She is an extraordinary person.”
“Even if you say that, Edward, your expression shows how you feel. You’re probably going through some trouble because of her.”
I conceded to Eldrigan’s straightforward remarks.
“Your Highness is correct.”
“Haha. Still, take good care of her. Although Ania may seem naive, she must have done much to get your marriage approved.”
As Eldrigan chuckled, the door to the reception room swung open wide.
“Now, it’s time to head back. Ania must be waiting for you.”
“Yes... I will keep your words in mind.”
Following his escort, I stepped out of the room.
Strolling with the attendants by my side, Eldrigan turned abruptly toward me.
“Edward!”
“Yes, Your Highness.”
“I wanted to tell you something but seem to have forgotten.”
With an enigmatic smile, Eldrigan spoke.
“It’s important for couples to have many conversations. Since feelings are only known if you express them.”
“I will keep that in mind.”
“Then be careful heading in. Let’s meet again when the opportunity arises.”
Bow in respect, I watched as Eldrigan walked away.
‘Since feelings are only known if you express them...’
Engraving his words in my mind, I boarded the carriage returning to the mansion.
The sky had darkened without me realizing it.