Chapter 142
Bathed in the warm autumn sunlight, Eila smiled contentedly.
Perfect weather for a date.
She had accepted Felix’s invitation to go out together after the exams, and now their carriage was heading toward the duke’s townhouse.
The dense buildings of the capital gradually thinned out, replaced by scenery so beautiful she wondered if such a place could truly exist within the city.
The sight naturally calmed her heart.
How long has it been since I last had this kind of peace?
With the exams finished, Eila was finally free.
Originally, her plan had been to leave the dormitory, find a new residence, and begin research on the paternity artifact at once.
But with unexpected free time, she found herself busier than ever—occupied with childcare.
Since Piyo had transformed into a human and started learning magic, he had also begun causing all kinds of trouble.
“Piyo, no! That’s dangerous!”
“You can’t do that. Stop—ah, don’t—!”
A dragon who had just learned magic was no different from a child holding a dangerous weapon.
That was why Eila couldn’t leave Piyo alone for even a moment, constantly having to scold and watch over him.
Lord Devens said that since Piyo’s body is smaller, his magic’s power is reduced… but if it’s this strong now, how powerful will he be in his true form?
Eila sighed deeply and shook her head.
Thankfully, Piony had agreed to watch Piyo today. Otherwise, she never would have dared think of going out.
Though Piyo could now use almost all forms of magic after molting, he still lacked control.
And, more importantly, he had yet to learn proper etiquette for the human world.
Soon, Eila would have to take him to the Emperor’s birthday banquet. The thought filled her with dread.
If Piyo makes a major blunder, I’ll be held responsible… Can I really teach him basic manners before then?
She sighed again just as the carriage passed through a white-painted gate nestled in the woods.
They had arrived at the duke’s townhouse.
Moments later, the carriage slowed and stopped before a garden bursting with colorful flowers.
Stepping down with the knight’s help, Eila’s eyes widened at the sight before her.
A white mansion, surrounded by lush greenery, stood like a painting come to life.
While she stared in awe, Felix—who had been waiting to greet her—approached with a smile.
“Welcome, Eila. The trip wasn’t too tiring, I hope?”
“No, it was quick by carriage. But wow…! This place looks like a vacation villa. It’s beautiful.”
She was so absorbed in admiring her surroundings that she hardly glanced at Felix.
So he stretched out his long fingers and deliberately blocked her view.
“I appreciate the compliment, but… is the house so wonderful you can’t even see me?”
Eila chuckled, gently lowering his hand.
“Of course not. Do you know how much I was looking forward to today?”
“…Really?”
“Yes. It’s been so long since we spent time alone together.”
At her words, Felix’s ears flushed red, his brief sulk forgotten. He quickly changed the subject.
“So, have you sorted out all your pressing problems? I mean Piyo’s training.”
Eila smiled awkwardly.
“Well… somewhat?”
“Somewhat? That’s a vague answer.”
“He’s still a child, you know. Can’t stay still for a second. Children don’t have much patience.”
“Hm. And you plan to bring him to the birthday banquet like this? Piony said he causes trouble almost daily.”
At that, Eila lowered her eyes, troubled.
“That’s exactly my worry. The Emperor’s banquet will have every important figure present… What if he causes a huge scene?”
Seeing her anxious face, Felix spoke gently.
“Then, how about this?”
He interlaced his fingers with hers and continued,
“I’ve been invited too, so I’ll attend as your partner. It’ll be easier if more than one person is watching him.”
“Partner?”
“Yes. Since we’re together anyway, it’s the natural arrangement.”
“Well, that’s true, but…”
Eila trailed off, hesitating.
Accepting his proposal felt daunting—appearing with Felix as her partner at such a grand banquet would solidify their relationship in the eyes of others.
Rumors would spread. They might even be mistaken for an engaged couple.
I told myself I’d be brave… but I keep worrying that Felix might be hurt because of me.
Eila glanced at him nervously.
Squeezing her hand firmly, Felix silently pressed for her answer.
His determination melted her resistance.
At last, she smiled softly, yielding.
“Alright. Thank you. Having you with me does make me feel better.”
“Of course. It’s only natural.”
Overjoyed, Felix pulled her along energetically.
“There’s so much I want to show you. The house is beautiful, but the lakeside nearby is famous for its scenery.”
“Really? Then I’m glad we came here. It’s so quiet and peaceful.”
After the exams, they had debated for a long time about where to spend the day.
But with Felix’s status, strolling through the markets required guards.
Neither of them wanted company today, so they decided on a picnic at the duke’s townhouse.
Reaching the stables, Felix asked,
“We won’t need two horses, right? We can ride together.”
“Together?”
“Yes, on this one.”
He led out a dazzling white horse by the reins.
“Wow, it’s beautiful.”
“The saddle’s ready. Here, let me help you up.”
Lifting her lightly, he placed her on the horse, then mounted smoothly behind her.
“….”
His solid chest pressed against her back, making her stomach tighten nervously.
“Eila, look forward. And hold the reins tightly.”
“O-okay.”
“Then, let’s go.”
With a tug of the reins, the horse began moving. Though the pace was slow, the rocking was stronger than expected.
Each step brought Felix’s arms and legs into light contact with her body.
He seemed unfazed, but Eila couldn’t help tensing each time his breath brushed her hair.
Am I the only one conscious of this…?
She tried to breathe slowly, hoping not to reveal her nerves.
Before long, the trees opened up, revealing a breathtaking view.
“Wow…!”
Just as Felix promised, the lakeside was stunning.
The late afternoon sun turned the blue water silver, while wildflowers and shrubs bloomed riotously around the shore.
“How is it, Eila?”
Felix looked down proudly, watching her profile.
