“Yes, that’s right. When we were young, we fought a lot because I was born a year earlier, but now that she’s getting married, it feels strange.”

Charlotte smiled softly.

“By the way, does Lydia take good care of you, Your Majesty?”

“Yes. You’re not as good, but you’re quite quick and thorough.”

“I’m relieved. Then, may I take a week off next week? I want to help my sister choose a wedding dress, and I want to see the wedding too. Can I briefly visit my hometown?”

“Of course. Take about two weeks off and rest well.”

Charlotte’s face lit up at my permission.

‘I should call her later and give her a generous bonus. I’ll have to spend some money when I go to see my family after a long time.’

But marriage.

Now everyone is of that age.

Since those around me weren’t getting married, I didn’t feel like I was getting older. But now, hearing that a child one year younger than Charlotte is starting a family, it felt somewhat novel.
‘Marriage… the act of promising a lifetime with a beloved. It also means not wanting anyone other than that person.’

Although I failed, I hope Yulia lives well.

Feeling somewhat empty, I adjusted the shawl on my shoulders.

At that time, I thought marriage was about giving oneself entirely to the other person. I understood it as a declaration to share not only good things and sweet things but also to overcome difficult and challenging things together. It meant that even if the other person acquired a disability or suffered from a severe illness, I would still love them. Whether the person becomes poor, goes through hardships, or even if they experience depression or nervous breakdowns, my love wouldn’t change. At least that’s how I saw it. Eternal trust. Mine even in death. Looking back now, I was quite naive.

“Your Majesty, I have something to tell you.”

Many people are looking for me today.

After Charlotte left with a pleased look, the one who entered as if replacing her was Lady Shion, Bertolt’s wife.

“Your Majesty, may I have a moment? Your expression is serious.”

“What’s wrong?”

“It’s… there’s a slight issue among the officials. Suckrell pushed Gabriel down the stairs.”

What?

Fortunately, Gabriel was not injured.

Even though I thought he might have a sprained wrist or something, he seemed so unharmed that I doubted if Suckrell really pushed him.

“I… made a mistake, Your Majesty.”

Kneeling in front of me, Suckrell pressed his forehead against the floor.

Still, acknowledging his mistake, he seemed to be sincerely regretful. With a sigh, I asked him:

“Why did you do that?”

“I was so angry… Gabriel said someone as lowly as me could never become Your Majesty’s true companion. I don’t even know where I came from, but he asked if the nobility would accept me if I were brought into the bed. He said someone like me would dirty the bedding, and it should all be thrown away.”

“…And Gabriel said that?”

Recalling Gabriel’s personality, I raised an eyebrow.

That timid Gabriel said that? It sounded like Suckrell was lying.

But I never jumped to conclusions.

After all, I had separately called Suckrell and Gabriel to see and accurately grasp the truth.

“And also, he said that you don’t have any interest in the officials, and I’m the only one shaking my tail like a dog trying to attract attention… asking if I don’t even have the balls. But it’s not wrong to try to gain your attention, right? Isn’t it?”

After letting it out, Suckrell looked defiant. Then, as if the excitement had died down, he dropped his head again. Among the various appearances of Suckrell I had seen so far, this was the most genuine.

“It’s distressing. However, it doesn’t mean you should push from behind.”

“Yes. I will reflect on this, Your Majesty.”
“If it’s true, apologize to Gabriel. And stay confined to your room for a week.”

After sending Suckrell away, I called for Gabriel.

Gabriel, who seemed half-asleep, looked unstable, like a sapling about to break.

“Y-Your Majesty. Oh, hello, h-hello.”

“How have you been? It’s been a while since I last saw your face.”

Come to think of it, I meet Suckrell almost every day, and I saw Terion not too long ago, but it felt like it had been quite a while since I last saw Gabriel.

Maybe it’s because he doesn’t come to see me.