Brody’s heart raced.

In truth, when Aidan suggested talking, she had a concern that he might say, “I appreciate it, but please don’t go any further.”

Up to now, his attitude had been enough to predict such a response, resembling a delicate and fragile glass.

So, even if she had to insist, she was preparing herself to persuade him.

“As the Grand Duke of the North, I implore you. Your help is desperately needed. Please, Brody, I hope you assist the North.”

“…….”

But he didn’t.

He set aside his previous attitude and, with sincere feelings, acknowledged Brody.

Not just her presence but also her abilities.

In this era, it wouldn’t be easy. Honestly, it was a time when ordinary noble men might say things like, “Don’t interfere in state affairs; women don’t understand,” even in the 21st century. No, even in the 21st century, there were still groups saying such things.

“No, this man is really…”

Being so exceptional yet humble and able to objectively view himself.

There was also a way to pretend not to know and accept Brody’s help. Regardless of Aidan’s objections, the contract had already been signed, and Brody was in a situation where she would become vulnerable without Aidan. Just crushing and passing by might have left Brody helpless.

Considering memories from a previous life and the experiences in the dukedom, everyone seemed eager to somehow exploit Brody for their own purposes… He, however, respectfully acknowledged Brody instead of doing so.

“He says he needs my help…”

Wiping away a teardrop that seemed to sting, Brody couldn’t speak.

Instead, Aidan spoke.

“I know it’s an indecent request. I know that you might be in trouble three years later, or rather, I know you will be in trouble. So…”

With a sharp sound, the chilly noise of a well-forged blade accompanied the unsheathing of the sword.

As if presenting the sword to Brody, he thrust it into the ground, maintaining formality as he spoke.

“I swear. I will protect you at the cost of my honor, my life, everything I have. I will protect the freedom you want to protect.”

“…….”

A cold northern wind enveloped the two.

The cloak fluttered, and the hair scattered, but the knight’s posture as he solemnly swore remained steadfast.

Brody silently stared at him and slowly spoke.

“Whatever happens to the North doesn’t concern me.”

“…….”

Aidan’s eyes, looking down at the ground, slightly trembled. The determination of the knight, unyielding even against the northern wind, was now swaying uncontrollably at the words of the woman he loved.

Perhaps, it was too late.

He knew all of this had happened because of his arbitrary decision to involve Brody. Even if she rejected him, there was nothing more to say.

As he helplessly lowered his head, Brody’s bangs gently swept into his field of vision.

“I am at your service.”

“…….”
Brody’s voice sounded close. Aidan instinctively raised his head.

Then, Brody, who had crouched in front of him, met his gaze.

Unconsciously, Aidan gasped.

Beyond the slenderly curved eyes of Brody’s emerald eyes, something sparkling brilliantly could be seen.

Indeed, Brody was wearing a broad and affectionate smile towards Aidan.

It wasn’t the sociable smile she usually gave to people. It wasn’t a ridiculous forced laughter or a mocking smile.

It was a smile overflowing with joy, unconsciously bursting out… such a smile.

Aidan was perplexed. No matter how many times, he had wanted to see that smile, but it was an uncommon one to witness.

But now? At this timing?

“I am at your service. The reason I came to the North is not because of the North, but because I came to see you. So, whether the North is poor or wealthy, it doesn’t concern me much.”

“Uh…”

“I want to help the North because I want to help you. It’s because you love the North.”

Brody leaned forward.

Then, reaching out with both hands, she cupped Aidan’s cheeks.

Soon, her soft lips touched the deep furrow between Aidan’s eyebrows.

In the scent she missed and the sweet texture, Aidan’s breath quickened.

‘For me…’

Brody’s lips were restrained, but after lightly touching, they parted.

Immediately, Brody stood up, reaching out with her hand.

And, as a comrade who had shared life and death with Aidan for a long time, she grabbed the hilt of the sword covered in leather.

It was longer and heavier than expected, so Brody had to exert all her strength to draw the sword embedded in the ground.

It wasn’t an unbearable weight to lift somehow, but now wasn’t it a solemn time to fulfill the oath.

Feeling that she couldn’t swing her arms wildly, she firmly stepped on both feet, applied force to her abdomen, and raised it without swaying too much.

“I will gladly accept this sword.”

“Then…”

“Yes, as long as you are here, I will also protect the North with you.”

Aidan raised his head and looked at the woman standing upright.