The Terminally-Ill Duke Clings to Me Every Night (Completed Main Story) - Chapter 55

When Akia entered the audience chamber, he saw Ilay seated at the central table. Upon seeing Akia approach, Ilay’s eyes widened in delight, and he beamed brightly.

“To see you looking so healthy—nothing could make me happier.”

Ilay, reacting even more enthusiastically than usual, finally rose from his seat and walked over to embrace Akia.

“My one and only younger brother, Akia.”

His hand, which had been gently stroking Akia’s back, paused ever so briefly. Rumors had been swirling through the court that the once-frail Akia had undergone a miraculous transformation.

As if to confirm those rumors, Ilay’s fingertips now brushed against firm, well-defined muscles. But he quickly masked his surprise with a gentle smile.

“I heard the news after you drank that tea that day. I was utterly shocked. You couldn’t possibly understand how I felt at that moment.”

“…….”

“Her Late Majesty the Former Empress passed away so suddenly—and if something were to happen to you too, Akia, I couldn’t go on living.”

The Emperor, who had been holding Akia, gently stepped back. At the mention of the Former Empress, a faint crack appeared on Akia’s expression.

It was such a subtle shift in expression that anyone else might have missed it—but the Emperor, inwardly thinking, “Just as I suspected,” wore a look of profound sorrow on his face.

“We may be cousins, but we grew up like true brothers, didn’t we? You’re the only one I can rely on, Akia. You simply can’t leave me over a mere cup of tea. Of course not.”

By now, the Emperor had moved away from Akia and returned to his seat. He gestured toward the Duke, who stood stiffly in place, as if inviting him to sit.

“Let’s sit and talk. So—how is your health now?”

Even as Akia took his seat, the Emperor’s intense gaze never left him.

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