Karl’s apologetic words contradicted his rough hand movements. Gebis, staggering, quickly gathered his things and fled the restaurant.

‘So pathetic. Despite everything, to leave a lady you came to see like this? Well, it’s a relief for me.’

Tsk-tsk, I clicked my tongue as Karl leaned back in the chair Gebis had occupied.

“What do you want?”

I glared at him for taking the seat, and Karl raised an eyebrow.

“Aren’t you going to thank me first?”

“For what?”

“You were looking at me as if you wanted me to get rid of that lunatic.”

“When did I…”

Although I had indeed hoped for his intervention. Did I unknowingly give him such a look?

“People change their minds so quickly.”

“Thank you, okay?”

“Is that how someone who’s grateful behaves?”

Karl chuckled.

“Besides, that guy who just left is the secretary to the Second Prince. Are you sure it’s okay to behave like that? You’ll cross paths in the palace.”

“You worried about me?”

“No.”

“Not bad.”

Karl seemed pleased, thinking I was concerned about him. His long fingers stroked his chin as he curled his lips.

I kept quiet, knowing arguing was futile.

Honestly, I was grateful he got rid of Gebis, and a part of me did worry about any repercussions he might face.
“You should finish your meal.”

I pointed to the next table, trying to change the subject.

“I’m done eating.”

He claims to be done, but the red-haired man is still busy devouring the food. What an odd thing to say.

“So, how are you planning to repay this favor?”

“What?”

“It seems to me that you owe me quite a bit.”

“Me?”

I stared incredulously at his smug face.

“Including today’s incident, I’ve helped you out more than just a couple of times.”

Remembering every single favor? He’s pettier than he looks. Just when I thought he’d appreciate my gratitude eventually, he had to spoil it by voicing his expectations. I grimaced, and Karl chuckled as if amused.

Then he nodded.

“Today, I’ll give you a chance to repay one of those favors.”

“I’d prefer you pay back the money you owe me first.”

“More vindictive than you look.”

“Look who’s talking.”

Karl smiled briefly and continued.

“I need your help with something. Let’s go.”

“What about him? He’s just started eating.”

I gestured towards the red-haired man, who was enthusiastically eating. He raised his hand in response.

“Oh, don’t mind me. I prefer dining alone, actually.”

“Well, there you have it.”

Karl gestured towards the exit. Well, since he helped get rid of Gebis, why not? I readily followed him.

“What do you need my help with?”

“My brother is getting married soon. I want to give him a wedding gift, but I’m not sure what to choose.”

“Is your brother a man or a woman?”

“A man.”

“Then just pick out an expensive bracelet. That should do.”

“Isn’t that a bit impersonal?”

“Classics are the best. Usually, gentlemen receive bracelets as wedding gifts.”

“Really?”

“Yes, didn’t you know?”

Of course, he didn’t. I just made that up. But I’ve never met anyone who wasn’t pleased with an expensive piece of jewelry.

Without much question, Karl led the way.

We arrived at a luxurious jewelry store. I gaped at the price tags on the accessories displayed.

‘Damn, he has money for this but not to pay me back?’