𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟏: 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐨𝐝𝐨𝐫𝐞-𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐚 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈 𝐭𝐨𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫
The restaurant, which was said to host royal family members visiting for mine inspections, was beautifully designed and served exquisite dishes.
While enjoying the ice cream cake and tea after the meal, Theodore-sama and I spent a peaceful time.
“How is the mine in your hometownーーthe former Maclouge territory?”
“I. . . left the management of that to Simon.”
Feeling embarrassed, I answered honestly.
“I used to accompany my father on his inspections many times when I was a child. But after marrying into the Strelitzi family, I lost all opportunities to visit. My mother-in-law disliked me interfering in the management of the territory, and I didn’t have the luxury to leave the main house due to my training as a mistress and household affairs. Besides.”
“Besides?”
“More than anything. . . it was painful to see the Maclouge territory, where my father’s memories are, become the Strelitzi territory. It felt like being confronted with the fact that my father was really gone from this world.”
“It must have been hard. . .”
I was taken aback by Theodore-sama’s pained expression as he furrowed his brows.
What a childish and shameful sentiment I had voiced.
“I’m sorry. During our meal. . . I shouldn’t have brought up such a thing.”
“No. I’m glad you talked to me.”
Theodore-sama shook his head. The cord tying his silver hair swayed vividly as it slid over his black formal attire.
“You don’t have to carry everything on your own. You’ve done enough. . . There’s no hesitation in mourning the death of your real parents. Especially with me. It’s comforting for me too, to be able to talk about the memories of the Count Maclouge whom I respect.”
“Theodore-sama. . .”
“It was a wise decision for you to leave the management of the mines and the territory to Simon. It’s not a bad thing to entrust your burdens to those who wish to take care of Miss Chloe.”
Theodore-sama intertwined his fingers on the table and spoke to me gently.
Since coming to this landーーI’ve been cherished and spoken to with kind words.
“You’re not alone anymore. I’m your family.”
When he tells me that straight with his strong ash-blue eyes, I can’t stop my heart from melting sweetly.
“. . . Theodore-sama. . .”
“If your pain eases even a little, let’s go to the old Maclouge’s magic stone mine together someday. I want to feel the land of Miss Chloe and your father’s memories together.”
“Thank you. . . Yes. If the day comes when we can go together, by all means.”
At that time, he said with a slight squint in his eyes.
“We’ll be able to go eventually. If you leave it to Simon, everything will go well.”
Encouraged by the strength of his assertive words, I nodded, saying “Yes.”
If Theodore-sama says so, I feel like the future will be filled with smiles, and I’ll be able to visit the old Maclouge’s magic stone mine.
[insert page=’4633′ display=’content’]
[insert page=’4587′ display=’content’]
Leave a Reply