I intend to wait for her to sit in front of me, but she insisted that we go to the stone patio, keeping a distance of 2 meters as we walked quietly.
I couldn't help but look at her.
...I wonder when she will become mine?
No!
I'm trying to convince myself that her future partner is fortunate! What is wrong with me? Is it because I like her?
...It makes sense.
While thinking, we arrived on the natural stone patio, creating a comfortable atmosphere.
The quietness of the surroundings made it unnecessary for me to initiate the conversation, resulting in an awkward situation. Despite my introverted nature, I felt compelled to start a conversation with her.
"H-How d-do you d-do?'"
I stuttered as I nervously asked. However, she seemed unresponsive and I realized my stuttering was my own fault.
"...I'm doing well," she finally replied, while avoiding eye contact.
"Are you okay? I'm concerned about your well-being."
"....Yes? ...Y-Yes."
I asked if she was okay, to which she hesitantly replied.
I could sense that something was wrong, and I wondered what had happened.
"...You see, I hadn't been feeling well lately and I had discussed it with my parents and siblings, they suspected it was an affection."
This revelation made me anxious, as it referred to a certain day.
"I-I see, the other day──"
"─It feels like you're running from something."
I tried to change the topic, however, she interrupted me, remarking, and her euphonious voice now laced with disappointment.
I wonder if she was aware of my feelings, and how she had somehow figured it out?
Sometimes, I find myself concerned about whether or not I am truly deserving of your presence in my life. However, on this occasion, I will trust the guidance of my heart.
"...I often overthinking what it would be like if we were together in the long run. I'm afraid that may not happen. I am apprehensive about allowing myself to fall in love again due to my tendency to anticipate future outcomes. I am concerned that there may come a day when you decide to leave me and start a family with someone else, while my affection for you remains overwhelmingly strong. The depth of my emotions would lead me to lose my sense of self and I would become resentful as a result of losing love. Taking these circumstances into account, I have decided that I do not wish to be in a relationship with you and I will not pursue you solely for my own benefit. Instead, I will provide support from a distance and refrain from expressing my feelings, as some emotions are better left unacknowledged even if it causes pain. I will make every effort to move forward and be a supportive friend to you," I said, In a very serious and sincere way, and she gazed earnestly into my eyes.
Thank you for considering me.
I must admit, I feel somewhat bashful expressing this, but I am sincerely grateful that our paths have crossed.
"─And," I continued.
・─ Sena's POV
In the aftermath of my association with the higher-ups. As I stood beside my father, my presence attracted the attention of those individuals, who greeted me alongside their son.
A few days later, I received a letter from them, consistently urging me to consider a marriage proposal for their son.
I promptly informed my father, and he responded by affirming that my life is my own, with the freedom to make my own choices. He assured me that no one can stand in opposition to me, as I have my own unique path to follow.
Ever since, I have been patiently waiting for them to meet with me. However, they continuously excuse themselves, claiming to have other pressing matters. Unfortunately, I cannot afford to wait any longer, as my mind is firmly set on my own aspirations. I am unable to find solace or peace of mind.
Despite my lack of interest, I have met with each of them individually in an attempt to understand their motives and the reasoning behind sending me a marriage proposal.
The manner in which they speak and perceive me was unpleasant and had a negative influence. It caused discomfort and insincerity. It is damaging my self-esteem. I was aware that their actions indicated a desire for my body.
"Why I made the decision to come here as the experience has become quite bothersome?" I question myself and expressed my frustration through frequent sighs.
Afterward, I informed my father about the situation, resulting in a decrease in marriage proposals.
I have a multitude of responsibilities in my life and do not have the time to pursue romantic relationships.
In order to protect the peaceful world that I hold dear, I find myself honing my sword skills and improving my potential, in case there is anyone attempting to disrupt that peace.
I had many aspirations, such as exploring the World's Longest Dungeon to the south, an uncharted territory that has yet to be conquered.
I have heard rumors that the monsters in that area are becoming increasingly powerful and pose a threat to anyone who ventures there, unless they possess the teleportation artifact created by the NUA Association, which allows for a swift escape.
It has been a few days since my mother fully recovered and we were enjoying a meal together.
My parents, along with my siblings, gathered at the same table for the first time, and I noticed that my mother appeared to be in good health.
I am deeply grateful to her for everything she has done, the immense joy I am currently experiencing is indescribable.
As time passes, thoughts of her occupy my mind more and more, especially the day we spent together, and we always send letters as I liked it.
The emotions I am feeling are completely foreign to me; it feels like love. I have confided in my family about it.
Today, I received a letter again. It has only intensified my feelings. Even though it is just a letter, it still makes me blush uncontrollably.
She is truly unique and exceptional in every way. Despite being younger than me, she possesses a level of maturity that is remarkable. Although she may not speak much, I can easily understand her.
Now, she visited me and arrived earlier than expected.
I am filled with immense happiness, as it is evident that she genuinely wants to see me. Although I was initially nervous and took some time to compose myself, she was patient and understanding.
The way she carried herself was incredibly elegant.
While walking together, I sensed a distance between us, which made me feel slightly disheartened, but I caught a glimpse of her subtly gazing at me.
My heart raced, and I took a deep breath to calm myself.
However, I could sense that she was feeling a sense of sorrow.
I wonder what is weighing on her mind?
We arrived at the destination, she inquired about my well-being, and I divulged everything to her, yet she has not provided a response, although I sensed that she understood.
"──To you."
I can't believe she said that, she address and confront her emotions.
My heart is exceedingly noisy, causing me distress.
Could it be that your earlier sadness was because of me?
I am honored that you have regarded me in such a manner.
You, who captured my heart without permission, must assume accountability.
"...And I want to be honest with you. There have been moments when I caught myself smiling because I realized I was thinking about you. All I want is to see you and feel safe when I am with you. I don't want to see you struggling, so I will do everything in my power to make you better. Honestly, I wasn't expecting anything at all, but you mean so much to me. All I can think about is that I have a crush on you, that I am infatuated with you. However, one day I realized that I was pretending to be someone else, and I realized that you are the one I have been waiting for. Since then, I constantly think about the future──" Before she could finish her sentence, I approached her, leaning my body against her. As my head rested on her chest, my soft azure brushed against her jaw, leaving us both surprised and captivated.
"I desire to be in your presence," I expressed, and I find solace in burying my blushing face within her embrace.
"...I understand that I do not need to hold a special place in your eyes, but I kindly request the opportunity to remain by your side."
What are you saying?
See, your heart beats solely for me and I feel the same as you do, and this is our love inclination.
This heartbeat is already the beginning of love between you and me.
Don't run, please, you're not going anywhere.
"I humbly ask you to utter my name."
"Sena," her monotonous tone conveys a gentle touch.
"I am pleased──"
Suddenly, my body begins to feel numb, and will fall, yet she embraces my waist.
"Take responsibility for your actions."
— We discovered ourselves laughing together.
I intend to wait for her to sit in front of me, but she insisted that we go to the stone patio, keeping a distance of 2 meters as we walked quietly.
I couldn't help but look at her.
...I wonder when she will become mine?
No!
I'm trying to convince myself that her future partner is fortunate! What is wrong with me? Is it because I like her?
...It makes sense.
While thinking, we arrived on the natural stone patio, creating a comfortable atmosphere.
The quietness of the surroundings made it unnecessary for me to initiate the conversation, resulting in an awkward situation. Despite my introverted nature, I felt compelled to start a conversation with her.
"H-How d-do you d-do?'"
I stuttered as I nervously asked. However, she seemed unresponsive and I realized my stuttering was my own fault.
"...I'm doing well," she finally replied, while avoiding eye contact.
"Are you okay? I'm concerned about your well-being."
"....Yes? ...Y-Yes."
I asked if she was okay, to which she hesitantly replied.
I could sense that something was wrong, and I wondered what had happened.
"...You see, I hadn't been feeling well lately and I had discussed it with my parents and siblings, they suspected it was an affection."
This revelation made me anxious, as it referred to a certain day.
"I-I see, the other day──"
"─It feels like you're running from something."
I tried to change the topic, however, she interrupted me, remarking, and her euphonious voice now laced with disappointment.
I wonder if she was aware of my feelings, and how she had somehow figured it out?
Sometimes, I find myself concerned about whether or not I am truly deserving of your presence in my life. However, on this occasion, I will trust the guidance of my heart.
"...I often overthinking what it would be like if we were together in the long run. I'm afraid that may not happen. I am apprehensive about allowing myself to fall in love again due to my tendency to anticipate future outcomes. I am concerned that there may come a day when you decide to leave me and start a family with someone else, while my affection for you remains overwhelmingly strong. The depth of my emotions would lead me to lose my sense of self and I would become resentful as a result of losing love. Taking these circumstances into account, I have decided that I do not wish to be in a relationship with you and I will not pursue you solely for my own benefit. Instead, I will provide support from a distance and refrain from expressing my feelings, as some emotions are better left unacknowledged even if it causes pain. I will make every effort to move forward and be a supportive friend to you," I said, In a very serious and sincere way, and she gazed earnestly into my eyes.
Thank you for considering me.
I must admit, I feel somewhat bashful expressing this, but I am sincerely grateful that our paths have crossed.
"─And," I continued.
・─ Sena's POV
In the aftermath of my association with the higher-ups. As I stood beside my father, my presence attracted the attention of those individuals, who greeted me alongside their son.
A few days later, I received a letter from them, consistently urging me to consider a marriage proposal for their son.
I promptly informed my father, and he responded by affirming that my life is my own, with the freedom to make my own choices. He assured me that no one can stand in opposition to me, as I have my own unique path to follow.
Ever since, I have been patiently waiting for them to meet with me. However, they continuously excuse themselves, claiming to have other pressing matters. Unfortunately, I cannot afford to wait any longer, as my mind is firmly set on my own aspirations. I am unable to find solace or peace of mind.
Despite my lack of interest, I have met with each of them individually in an attempt to understand their motives and the reasoning behind sending me a marriage proposal.
The manner in which they speak and perceive me was unpleasant and had a negative influence. It caused discomfort and insincerity. It is damaging my self-esteem. I was aware that their actions indicated a desire for my body.
"Why I made the decision to come here as the experience has become quite bothersome?" I question myself and expressed my frustration through frequent sighs.
Afterward, I informed my father about the situation, resulting in a decrease in marriage proposals.
I have a multitude of responsibilities in my life and do not have the time to pursue romantic relationships.
In order to protect the peaceful world that I hold dear, I find myself honing my sword skills and improving my potential, in case there is anyone attempting to disrupt that peace.
I had many aspirations, such as exploring the World's Longest Dungeon to the south, an uncharted territory that has yet to be conquered.
I have heard rumors that the monsters in that area are becoming increasingly powerful and pose a threat to anyone who ventures there, unless they possess the teleportation artifact created by the NUA Association, which allows for a swift escape.
It has been a few days since my mother fully recovered and we were enjoying a meal together.
My parents, along with my siblings, gathered at the same table for the first time, and I noticed that my mother appeared to be in good health.
I am deeply grateful to her for everything she has done, the immense joy I am currently experiencing is indescribable.
As time passes, thoughts of her occupy my mind more and more, especially the day we spent together, and we always send letters as I liked it.
The emotions I am feeling are completely foreign to me; it feels like love. I have confided in my family about it.
Today, I received a letter again. It has only intensified my feelings. Even though it is just a letter, it still makes me blush uncontrollably.
She is truly unique and exceptional in every way. Despite being younger than me, she possesses a level of maturity that is remarkable. Although she may not speak much, I can easily understand her.
Now, she visited me and arrived earlier than expected.
I am filled with immense happiness, as it is evident that she genuinely wants to see me. Although I was initially nervous and took some time to compose myself, she was patient and understanding.
The way she carried herself was incredibly elegant.
While walking together, I sensed a distance between us, which made me feel slightly disheartened, but I caught a glimpse of her subtly gazing at me.
My heart raced, and I took a deep breath to calm myself.
However, I could sense that she was feeling a sense of sorrow.
I wonder what is weighing on her mind?
We arrived at the destination, she inquired about my well-being, and I divulged everything to her, yet she has not provided a response, although I sensed that she understood.
"──To you."
I can't believe she said that, she address and confront her emotions.
My heart is exceedingly noisy, causing me distress.
Could it be that your earlier sadness was because of me?
I am honored that you have regarded me in such a manner.
You, who captured my heart without permission, must assume accountability.
"...And I want to be honest with you. There have been moments when I caught myself smiling because I realized I was thinking about you. All I want is to see you and feel safe when I am with you. I don't want to see you struggling, so I will do everything in my power to make you better. Honestly, I wasn't expecting anything at all, but you mean so much to me. All I can think about is that I have a crush on you, that I am infatuated with you. However, one day I realized that I was pretending to be someone else, and I realized that you are the one I have been waiting for. Since then, I constantly think about the future──" Before she could finish her sentence, I approached her, leaning my body against her. As my head rested on her chest, my soft azure brushed against her jaw, leaving us both surprised and captivated.
"I desire to be in your presence," I expressed, and I find solace in burying my blushing face within her embrace.
"...I understand that I do not need to hold a special place in your eyes, but I kindly request the opportunity to remain by your side."
What are you saying?
See, your heart beats solely for me and I feel the same as you do, and this is our love inclination.
This heartbeat is already the beginning of love between you and me.
Don't run, please, you're not going anywhere.
"I humbly ask you to utter my name."
"Sena," her monotonous tone conveys a gentle touch.
"I am pleased──"
Suddenly, my body begins to feel numb, and will fall, yet she embraces my waist.
"Take responsibility for your actions."
— We discovered ourselves laughing together.
