After the rainy scene with Aiden last time, Aiden finally decides to fully open up to me. Based on his story, indeed, he was abused by his mother since childhood. I must say, Lilith would be great at raising tyrants and craving-for-love children. I can’t believe she abused Aiden every time he ‘failed’ her. Aiden was afraid of telling me because he thought I’d look at him with disgusted and sickening eyes, just like the maids and servants. Hah, how dare they! Because of you guys, he has trauma! What if he suffers from PTSD?! The reason why Aiden didn’t report this to His Majesty is that he doesn’t want rumors about his abuse to go flying around the empire. But I don’t buy that. I think he actually doesn’t want people to talk bad about his mom. Even though he said he hates Lilith, deep in his heart, he loves her as his mother and he’s sad as to why she’s acting like that. So now, I hereby say I refuse to believe such a soft innocent boy is this empire’s disaster! “My l

“What are you doing?” Another hoarse voice speaks with utter seriousness that shows off his full authority. A sense of relived hits the two hiding rats. Azher instantly recognizes the voice very well while Airis spots those crimson red eyes. “S-Sir Felix…!” Alfred stutters, taken aback by Felix’s sudden appearance at the front door, carrying a pile of papers. “Answer me, Alfred. What are you doing at His Highness’ desk?” “I was putting a glass of water for His Highness.” He answers, just to be lucky enough that he did bring a glass of water with him. “His Highness won’t be in his office until tomorrow.” Felix places down the pile of papers, then turns to Alfred, arms crossed with all high and mighty. “Forgive my impudence, but I’m sure you know His Highness hates people invading his privacy.” He says out front, no hesitation whatsoever. “And as far as I recall, it’s not a butler’s work to serve water for His Highness.” He adds, giving

“Yeah… I find it unbelievable that I’m with the true inventor of the empire right now.” I say, giving her a tender look which she doesn’t notice. She laughs softly, pausing her current work, and gives me her full attention. “What’s with the praise? I thought that mouth of yours don’t know how to flatter.” “This isn’t me trying to flatter you.” “Huh?” “Truthfully, I dislike interacting with people and prefer to be alone. Yet, you… I don’t know why but I find your company enjoyable.” “Is that so? I’m glad.” She wears a warm lovely smile, lovelier than all the flowers here combined. Unconsciously, I speak, “You know, you changed me so much that I find myself unfamiliar.” “Pardon?” “U-Uh… How about we dig in? It wouldn’t taste good if the food is cold.” I stutter, quickly grabbing the eating utensils placed beside the food. “Sure…” She says indifferently, also reaching her eating utensils.   ***

“You ready?” “Does it look like I’m not?” I ask, opening my arms. “Confident, I like.” Felix sneers, patting my back. “Is Airis coming?” “She’s already here.” “This early? Did you see her?” “I met her and she had a little something for you.” He takes out a cream envelope from his pocket. I quickly snatch it, thrilled to know the contents. As I open the envelope and am about to read the letter, Felix buts his head in. I give him a stingy glare. “Jeez… So secretive.” He scowls, yet backs away while holding his hands up like surrendering. “I’ll be checking the security and guards. Don’t take too long.” I nod. *Thud.* Felix closes the door, resulting in me alone in my bedroom. Staring at the letter in hand, I quickly read it.     Good luck with the voting session today! I am confident you will get the most votes. Even if you do not, you have mine! – and the worst-case scenar

*Creak…* The door slowly opens as I enter. The corners of my lips carve a small joyful smile upon seeing a certain somebody sitting on my desk with her legs crossed as if it’s hers. “You’re here.” Airis gets down from my desk and walks towards me, but maintaining at least 4.5 feet in distance. “Yeah…” “…” “…” The atmosphere becomes quiet. Only the sounds of particles and specks of dust moving in the wind could be heard – if there is a sound. ‘…I should lighten the mood.’ “So, you-!” “So, you-!” We both said the same thing simultaneously, looking at each others’ eyes. In a moment, we quickly turn our heads aside, with intense redden cheeks and ears. “Uh… You first.” Airis insists, though her voice is as stiff as an iron rod. Through the corner of my eye, I see her head slowly return to me,  the person she’s conversing with, but her gaze is placed elsewhere. “Ehem! So… h-how have you b