Chapter 89

"Wow... It's like a dream place."

In front of the neatly lined bookshelves, Wendy let out a sigh of admiration. Her pink eyes sparkled, and seeing them made me feel happy somehow.

This is the library of the Einhardt family – the home where Noah and I live. Since Wendy came to visit, I thought it would be a shame not to enjoy tea in my favorite library. If it were a bit warmer, we could have had tea in the arbor in the backyard, but unfortunately, it's a cloudy day. The wind is also cold, so it seems we'll have to wait until next spring to have tea in the arbor.

"It's only partially filled, though..."

"That just means there's more to look forward to filling it up."

"That's true."

We looked at each other and smiled. Wendy, who loves books just like me, was muttering to herself as she looked at the books on the shelves. I could tell that these words were slipping out unconsciously, and it felt a bit ticklish to see myself in her.

"Wendy, let's have tea."

"Huh? Oh, sorry. I got carried away."

"Hehe, you reacted just like when new books are placed on the shelves."

"It's just so enjoyable. There are so many books I like and so many I haven't read. You would understand, right?"

On the table near the fireplace, tea and pastries were prepared. This was made by the chef of the mansion. He is skilled at cooking and making pastries, and the kitchen always smells good and is filled with cheerful whistling.

We sat on the sofa in front of the table. Pouring tea from the warm pot into the cups, a fragrant aroma rose with the steam. The beautiful amber color shone in the light.

After dropping a sugar cube in, I brought the cup to my mouth. The slight sweetness spread on my tongue, and I let out a sigh of relief. It was delicious.

The maid had thoughtfully prepared a large pot so we could chat a lot. I remembered her smile when she said, "Even if it gets cold, it will still taste good, but I can bring you more hot tea anytime."

"It's delicious. It's refreshing and easy to drink."

"I'm glad you like it. Please try the pastries too."

"Thank you."

On the table, a variety of pastries were arranged.

Cookies, macarons, orangettes, beignets, financiers, and nougat. Wendy's gaze wandered as she picked up a macaron.

I also hesitated about what to eat. They were all undoubtedly delicious, and I intended to try them all. But the first one is always special.

After some thought, I decided to start with the orangette.

"Mm, it's delicious. The chef is also good at making pastries."

"Yes, thanks to him, I've discovered more things I like."

Wendy's voice was lively after eating the macaron. I nodded and took a bite of the orangette.

The slightly bitter orange peel went well with the sweet chocolate. A gentle citrus aroma wafted up.

Spending time like this with Wendy felt like it had been a while. With my wedding and various troubles before that, it was hard to find time to relax.

We often worked and had meals together, but this kind of time was different.

"By the way, did you hear that a new café is opening in town?"

"No, what kind of place is it?"

"It's a fruit specialty store. They serve pastries and tea made with seasonal fruits."

"That sounds absolutely delicious. Can we go together when it opens?"

"Of course. I want to go with you first. If Einhardt-sama goes before me, I'll be jealous."

I couldn't help but laugh at Wendy's playful words.

"I'm happy that you're happy, and I'm happy that you two are close. But... I still know you best, more than anyone outside of your family... let me at least think that."

This time, while eating a cookie, Wendy dramatically shrugged. Even though she pretended to be upset, her voice was gentle.

"You know, Noah... was jealous of you too."

"Of me?"

Back when Captain Radine and Noah were waiting for us to finish our work.

When we saw Captain Radine and Wendy walking back, Wendy showed a face of love that she never shows to me. It was so cute and beautiful that my heart felt warm.

"Noah said you were giving him such intense looks, even though he was right next to you. He said I couldn't be jealous."

"Even Einhardt-sama can't come between our bond."

I smiled at Wendy's proud expression.

For some reason, my eyes felt hot, so I picked up my teacup and took a sip to hide it. Since the temperature was just right, I finished the cup in one go.

"Hey, Wendy."

"What is it?"

I picked up the pot and poured tea into the empty cup.

I deliberately didn't look at Wendy, as I couldn't raise my head.

"Thank you for being here. I really like you."

A close friend and like a sister, a very important person.

Someone special in a different category from family, someone I wish the best for more than anyone else.

After putting the pot back on the table, Wendy leaned her head on my shoulder. I also rested my cheek on her hair, which smelled of gentle soap.

"I do too. I'll always be important to you. So, you can always rely on me."

"Thank you. You too."

"Yes."

In the solemn atmosphere, we looked at each other and laughed. Neither of us mentioned that our eyes were teary.

After that, we spent time chatting, as if the previous atmosphere had been a lie.

We talked about books, work, trendy sweets, dresses, and even the story of the mother and kitten who recently visited the library. The topics never ran out.

Before we knew it, it was completely dark outside, and there was a knock on the library door. When we answered, the door opened, and there stood Noah and – Captain Radine.

"We're back."

"We're joining you."

Noah was still in his knight's uniform, and it was clear that he and the captain had come straight to this room.

"Welcome back."

"Sir Sirius?"

Wendy also looked surprised, so she probably didn't know the captain was coming.

"I heard Wendy was still here, so I came to pick her up."

"Thank you."

Wendy's smile, which only Captain Radine could draw out, was gentle, sparkling, and happy.

"...Wendy, I'm getting jealous too."

At my muttered words, Wendy laughed.

Noah and Captain Radine tilted their heads in confusion, not understanding the meaning of my words.

Wendy playfully winked at me. That expression was probably only for me. I'm sure I also had a face that I only show to Wendy.

We looked at each other again and let out a laugh.

On September 27, the third volume of the manga was released.

It's a heart-pounding, heart-melting volume filled with Noah's love!

Thank you very much for your support!