HTTRPIAO Ch 145-149

“Now, of all times?”98e957f26e498f81

Leona asked with 9cdd29240b a look of 2854758b83 disbelief.He’s regretting it now because he heard Etienne got hurt? Etienne hasn’t been sick for just a day or two, so why this sudden change?9a351b870b9f7121

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

He must have some ulterior motive; otherwise, he wouldn’t suddenly show interest in Etienne while talking about playing his role of a father. Leona tried to understand Edwin’s true intentions. She couldn’t believe those words were sincere. It was such an incomprehensible and sudden change of emotion.9a2b7120311b5b79

“Don’t you think you’re being too shameless?”e7f0fed7605a7087

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

Leona said bluntly, attacking dd8e4e813d Edwin. To an 77bc2729cf outsider, it be06ed80c5 might seem d05911cdbb like she 73879aa1c9 was scolding 61762ac038 a husband 7dbf84327d who had d04db7f6a1 long been 013c48df8b indifferent to 7beac40daf his child, 086f087dc9 but the 6a929701a7 reality was 22c928f913 different. She was anxious.43df3ec78a9cfe16

“I know better than anyone that I’m being shameless. But I can’t continue living like this anymore.”4b3dae862f682d27

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

Edwin humbly accepted Leona’s criticism. In this regard, no matter what she said to him, there was nothing he could do. His attitude made things more complicated for Leona. She couldn’t understand what his true intentions were.cb0bbb819674bc06

…Could he have noticed something?When that 7d49d209eb thought crossed cdb3263c19 her mind, 7bcc2471ae her neck 60272b7851 tingled with 7292d8c8c6 fear. Leona observed 89eccb59f3 Edwin with c110ce99d3 eyes full 4cfa2fdbe7 of wariness. Her mouth 7a67c5a6c4 went dry 9a86925bd0 with anxiety 2ff3f45035 about the e6550b8af1 possibility of d0558a4181 her secret 37a1e48144 being discovered.438c0f2f42783276

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

Until now, Leona had been able to hide Etienne’s true nature partly thanks to Edwin’s indifference. If Edwin had shown even a little interest in Etienne, he might have discovered that he was an Omega long ago. Even though he was recessive, Edwin was still unmistakably an Alpha.747c7c2439c8a39f

Fortunately, Edwin hadn’t paid any attention to Etienne until now. Thanks to that, she had been able to control Etienne and his surroundings as she pleased while keeping the secret.65491bd541352a1e

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

However, things would be different if Edwin actively intervened with Etienne. Even now, Leona couldn’t meet freely with Etienne because of Edwin’s imperial order.4b5d0a6555cc7a28

“It’s too late to start acting like a father. Don’t confuse the kid and just leave him be.”6f1f310ce8e40dab

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Edwin’s lips tightened at Leona’s rebuke. He remembered Etienne’s distorted face when he had apologized. Thinking about that moment felt like sharp thorns were pricking his heart.b03eaa9851e2d241

But he couldn’t back down here. This was necessary, if only to protect Etienne. Edwin steeled his resolve, recalling his conversation with Rishar.ec95a59ba0c15e15

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“And how well have you played the role of a mother?”7c78ab6b0417cff2

“What did you say?”6ca584ef4fb772da

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“It seems the Empress hasn’t been such a good mother to the Prince either.”e06c3194f0dddc2d

“Are you insulting me right now? I raised the Prince. All by myself, even your share…!”032168d15f56822e

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“You didn’t raise him, you shaped him according to your taste.”047ab9d1ad1b948e

At the biting 9f12d0e19d remark, Leona’s face 8d367b8ce3 flushed red. Her body trembled f74e73bae1 with uncontrollable anger. She pressed down her e7fa7f44e3 rage and questioned him abf6322494 in a strained voice.322e7ea10c9d31fc

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“Shaping, huh? Have you finished what you wanted to say?”88f74c8b11940ce3

“Why? Don’t like it? I could say worse things. Anyway, this is a matter between me and the Prince, so don’t interfere unnecessarily.”afd4bea13dcb5c66

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Edwin coldly rebuked 20c5f6d318 Leona, who was deba7c26cb glaring at him c0a4c21090 with fierce eyes. Before, he had only 31581d00e4 vaguely suspected, but now e38495dbce through Rishar, he knew 833508b90b that Etienne had grown 513bab61d2 up being abused by ef41853356 Leona. Thinking about e32ba4024b it brought 46b4a113d5 back the 255fdd0bd8 pain that ed3c73091f felt like c12ddec21e it was 83baddfd56 tearing his 4cfa1a0c95 chest apart.fb15f8e2f7f2eb42

If only I had b816c119bd paid a little attention 3b551feded to my son, I f3fe8b2919 could have prevented it.cf079ead56d3cce9

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

Over the past few months, Edwin had spent sleepless nights regretting ignoring Etienne in the past. He couldn’t make the excuse that he didn’t know. He had felt something was wrong. That made him regret it even more. He hadn’t not known; he had pretended not to know.096cd0c90072db3c

“Unnecessary interference?! The Prince is my child!”4feedd3d89ce90ca

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“Watch your words! The Prince isn’t just the Empress’s child, nor is he an object you can handle as you please!”9c11861a5e1122ba

Edwin shouted, striking the sofa’s armrest hard. His eyes, clouded with deep remorse, shook in pain. Now that he knew how Etienne had grown up, he had no intention of leaving him in Leona’s hands. Protecting the child from Leona was the minimum atonement he could do.98ee93a5105f41cf

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“Is it so strange that I want to take care of the Prince as his father? Honestly, I don’t understand why the Empress is so defensive. Didn’t you criticize me before for caring only about Grand Duke Eckhart, an outsider, while neglecting my own child, the Prince? You even resented me for not giving the Prince any opportunities. Now that I’m going to care for that child as you wanted, why are you opposing it?”0b7a1f5191deda52

“That’s…”891c60d9da95234c

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Unable to find words to refute, Leona’s voice trailed off. It was undeniable that she had been telling Edwin, who supported Rishar, to take care of Etienne as well. Edwin looked at Leona, who was biting her lower lip with a frustrated expression, and spoke.a64a98dcd82dafb6

“Anyway, I intend to give the Prince an opportunity.”435bef26b6b0cca4

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“What?”07b188c468d4a0ec

“A few days ago, we received word from the West. They say there are signs of a monster wave in the Forest of Magic.”8892316cfbc058cf

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Leona’s expression hardened at the unexpected topic. She had been too busy with family matters these past few days to pay attention to other news.4b14b5dd89d5fcee

“It’s only been three years since the last wave, and there’s another one already?”212857d27a38a068

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Leona asked, puzzled. This was unusual because e445ea9fed monster waves typically occurred 54b87f0dd5 in ten-year cycles. Although territories 1071d13db6 bordering monster 821af44f03 habitats conducted 3f21121fd4 regular annual 42e6dc127f exterminations to aa8dddf84e control the 9d7d8445c5 population, waves caffb36bcb large enough bac4ff2917 to be 2a3c241d6f called monster 4b9fcba60a waves usually 3b3507a4f0 happened only 7909c4db51 once every e1b3d3efb0 ten years.cce247304f2aaf6a

“Not as large-scale as three years ago… According to reports, it seems mutants have appeared in the Forest of Magic. The Forest Federation and the Kingdom of Rohan, which share the Forest of Magic with the Empire, detected the anomaly and requested military support this morning. They want Grand Duke Eckhart to become the commander of the extermination forces.”0c31dda90276ee36

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Leona’s expression hardened further at hearing that both the Forest Federation and the Kingdom of Rohan wanted Rishar. In the current situation, if Rishar earned another achievement, he would likely become crown prince. She had to prevent that at all costs. As Leona bit her lip with an anxious face, Edwin brought up something unexpected.d2636b8719892db5

“Within a few days, envoys from the Forest Federation and Kingdom of Rohan will visit to negotiate about the extermination. I plan to entrust those negotiations to the Prince.”92adead98b9b1ee5

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“To the Prince?”4e82303eb835aa46

“Didn’t I just say I would give that child an opportunity? Marquis Miles would have been perfect for this, but unfortunately, he has passed away…”ab6f378e1c58cb7a

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Suddenly, Leona’s eyes lit up. Monster waves were a topic that everyone in the Empire had to care about. If Etienne successfully concluded negotiations with other countries, he would not only prove his ability but also instantly raise his low public recognition.b255bb96a48e58d8

“If you don’t like it, we could assign the negotiations to Grand Duke Eckhart instead…”884e1b401b8e2aa0

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“No. It’s a good idea. The Prince will surely agree to do it.”8a82c2091ac91f35

Leona interrupted Edwin’s words to answer. Usually, she would have thought carefully, but now there was no time for that. Edwin twitched one eyebrow as he watched Leona’s sudden change in attitude.873891d707e48d6d

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“Very well. Then we’ll entrust the negotiations to the Prince. But you are not to get involved.”9e5c987f5558a4fa

“What do you mean? The Prince has never properly handled state affairs before. Of course, I should help…”d09bab579130dbee

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“If the Prince receives help from you, Empress, the public opinion will remain the same. He needs to show people that he can do it on his own.”b19d13c7342c8f27

Edwin spoke in a firm voice. He agreed with Rishar’s statement that Etienne needed his own power base. Although he had been half-skeptical when he first heard it, not anymore. After confirming Etienne’s abilities, there was nothing to hesitate about.e26aa1ea5105ec58

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Edwin intended to use these negotiations to create a foothold for Etienne. For Etienne to break free from Leona’s influence, he needed to gain power on his own. This matter would be a good opportunity for Etienne in many ways.e4f79b4cebd6b484

“Above all, isn’t the image of House Herace in shambles right now? Don’t you think it would backfire if you helped the Prince?”aef6a297cae3702f

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“…I understand.”d1e6f2cc1881eaeb

Leona stepped back reluctantly when Edwin took a strong stance. Although she didn’t want to admit it, Edwin was right. It would also be troublesome if she provoked him further and he withdrew his decision.35c18bbc7f88175b

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“I will follow Your Majesty’s will.”360599db72d17e36

“Good thinking. Then I’ll have the negotiation team assembled by tomorrow. You may leave now.”910f7df494542a09

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Edwin announced the eab762167a end of the bd0f61e819 conversation and dismissed 20f5266934 her. Leona left the office 29939e8a91 with an uneasy expression. She kept feeling 30bc374d27 that something was 5f03626603 going wrong.12e3f37758e13356

“Send word to Duke Herace right away. Tell him I need to see him urgently.”8fdd98169607eb10

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Leona ordered the head maid after coming outside. She headed toward her palace while suppressing her anxious feelings. Edwin had told her not to interfere, but she couldn’t really just sit back and do nothing.7278d5ba7c7cf3db

***dfab19bc44e6ff17

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Splash, whoosh…26f93dabbfea454c

Etienne sat 43e0f99286 alone on 1bfb0ca901 the terrace, 00d31d1651 listening to 481594856f the sound 5efee7b607 of waves.Squawk, squawk, the cries of c33ec5a7b2 seagulls flying in the fab48b6f4c blue sky mixed with e2058e8f1e the wave sounds that da0b3bc56c resembled rain.9fc87a338c364e2d

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

He fixed e8945d4762 his gaze 7a6ef3f127 on the 1a6eca9d79 distant horizon, ff28834929 feeling the e84498553d salty sea b5d7d280e8 breeze tickling a2443db7ed his hair. The scenery where a89b8b0e0d the clear blue eb5f4b7776 sky met the ea459fb0c4 deep blue sea 3f2d73e478 was like a 8f6b89fe6d painting.1562ebee27f4326a

Etienne’s gaze, which had lingered on the boundary between sky and sea, moved downward. As he absent-mindedly watched the transparent waves repeatedly rushing onto and retreating from the beach, he felt the tension that had been gripping his chest gradually subsiding. Just then, a shadow fell over his head.78740f4356f89628

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“What are you looking at so intently?”c0cc03053ab00414

“Rishar.”67b3ef87daf49566

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

Etienne looked up 678f4c0f3c at Rishar who 748e496938 had spoken to 0ddf8b77dd him and slightly 763a248303 curved his eyes. Rishar, who had made 8ac07e02aa shade with his hand 93d6629f8b as if blocking the 50fbced5c6 hot sunlight, shifted his 054a31bc4d gaze to the sea 56c8882767 along with Etienne.852a2d98a5651d8c

“Is there something good to see?”d1311e11e9470673

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“Just enjoying the scenery…”76a967cf62b104df

Etienne answered while looking bd6a45ad41 at the sea sparkling b624f3d896 in the sunlight. Perhaps because 7416e39922 the view 35c8384f57 was so 7214131f9e open, just 2b334769cb looking at a4cf1cd4e1 it made 3ed129f503 his head e39120e449 feel refreshed 770aa292fb after being fcfb2fe94c dizzy all 6c09583613 day.ce19cc46e634b9e8

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“It’s been a while since I’ve seen the sea, so it’s nice. But since the sun is too hot, let’s go inside.”0931a73382cb75c9

Rishar, who had 9f159cea86 been admiring the 40f8a88b25 sea with Etienne, 1cc74e746f lowered his hand 0bca224cad that had been 10159b17cd blocking the sunlight e5678ec90b and rubbed his 004674cb4d flushed cheeks.19f2b4cb16e984fd

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“Your face is red… Doesn’t it sting?”4f659eacf4517dc4

“Huh? Ah, well…”7d015e53f3a6a7e9

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Etienne hesitated before answering. He hadn’t noticed until Rishar asked, but now that he touched it, it did seem to sting a little.162030d0e2201188

“Please tell me right away if it feels hot or burns. Your skin is sensitive, so you might have gotten sunburned.”a61b69c337f01666

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Rishar, looking worriedly at the reddened cheeks, took Etienne’s hand and led him inside. He seemed quite concerned.9833cd73b716b704

“I wasn’t outside long enough to get burned, just a few minutes.”5f3ff6465b9c58ed

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Although Etienne thought Rishar was being overly cautious, he quietly followed him inside. He knew Rishar was sensitive about his physical condition, but he hadn’t expected him to be concerned about something like this. Still, he liked that.fa2e7162443f61e4

The room e095feaeee was slightly f518685e9c different from 2fd2650ac7 when Etienne 0b1fabd164 had gone 7953df22e6 out to 5dda91f291 the terrace. The documents scattered across ac4e4bd02e the table and sofa 5d741428fa had been neatly organized 056e4d1d94 into one pile, and b2580f1aa8 on the cleaned table, 3e263153a2 a glass of iced d7c5d65e2f ade and a fruit b7da3f26b5 punch were prepared.ed9a66e6ab2441a5

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“What’s all this? Did you bring it?”aa72c3c11048431b

“I met your main attendant in the hallway. He was talking with the tailor, so I offered to bring these instead.”b105f2b9efece910

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

Rishar answered as he sat down next to Etienne. His gaze was still fixed on Etienne’s face. At this rate, he seemed ready to go get an ice pack, insisting they needed to cool down the heat.712b2cd9016ed795

“What kind of drink is this? I’ve never seen this fruit before.”b44e3e5c2146e287

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Etienne picked up the ade glass to divert Rishar’s attention. His cheeks were burning not from the sun but from Rishar’s gaze. Finally, Rishar’s eyes moved away from his reddened cheeks.fe0fd752db27ab37

“Oh, they said it’s made from a fruit that only grows in this territory. I think it was called passion fruit?”89ddc3bd08312ca0

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“Passion fruit?”a88dd27a5bdb3351

Etienne murmured the fruit’s name while slightly tilting the passion fruit ade glass. Yellow, transparent jelly-like pulp moved together with the ice. Etienne carefully took a sip of the ade. At that moment, the soft pulp along with the sweet and sour drink spread in his mouth. Etienne’s eyes widened at the taste of this strange drink.4e3b83736001d998

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“It has a unique taste.”b9c2fa000fdb73c6

“It’s originally a fruit that only grows in the southern tropics. Apparently, Count Epoch, the lord of this territory, succeeded in cultivating it after several years of research.”042304eb9baa44c4

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“Is that so? Hm.”efc0f9dd899050af

Etienne sipped the ade while listening to Rishar’s explanation. At first, he wondered what this taste was, but as he drank it, he came to like both the soft texture and the moderately sour taste.c8b0958e4ae9651a

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Does it suit your taste?”a98fae1a1ac81b02

“It’s drinkable.”fd29566e03363ad9

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“I’m glad.”e65c089de2273fb7

Rishar looked pleased when he saw that Etienne seemed to like the passion fruit ade. For the past few days, Etienne had often left his meals unfinished, saying he had no appetite. He hadn’t eaten much of the snacks that Ben had prepared with great care either. It seemed to be due to the pressure of being the negotiation representative. Both Rishar and Ben were very worried since someone who already had a small appetite wasn’t eating well.5cb855ad8f47a88a

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Try the fruit punch too.”8ea5a12cf7e4411e

Rishar, looking at 9ee0b7a5f3 Etienne who seemed b8b92b4bc2 to have gotten 18a29c353d even thinner in b0b957d602 the past few a8743492e8 days, recommended the 8fd41f153f fruit punch as 237836ed7c well. Perhaps his appetite had 04ea9cffb6 returned, as Etienne picked 3accf4f52b up the spoon without 4e2495167e saying anything.b404609314af1413

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“Since this is a place with active foreign trade, there are many exotic foods. There’s even a separate street for foreign merchants and a residential area for them.”e3f02b691b526743

“That’s common in trade cities.”861f80d6f8084daf

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

The place c57d024e57 where Etienne c8eabd7791 and Rishar abdf09b426 currently were 06998633ce was the 319fdd1e8f port city 65b54dabbb of Epoch, 7893553456 located near 649c29f52b the western da98afde7a part of f6ee4378ee the empire. Given the nature of fe9ac034de the matter, it was 828b992720 a location chosen so f2a1996e56 they could quickly finish 4ffb0bfb5c negotiations and, if necessary, 57fc943288 immediately depart for the c641594ecd Forest of Magic in 7fc1674d50 the west.5e258df86440c53c

“I ran into Count Epoch on the way here, and he said there’s a small festival tonight.”dc0bc0cbf2676fc1

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Festival?”0fb6a81c4ff543fe

“Yes. There’s going to be a night market and street performances too. Would you like to go? The Count highly recommended it.”f31de68e51a39dd5

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“Hmm.”c9aa55821a8f783b

Etienne fell into contemplation, unable to answer Rishar’s suggestion right away. He was interested, but it was difficult to readily agree to go.8fbb5dfbf700832c

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“I wonder if it’s okay to go? If people view it negatively…”67bdda6e3e8f6a3d

“Why would they view it negatively? Rather, everyone’s worried that you’re pushing yourself too hard.”f565b740a2f83af9

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“Huh?”da01e89b63d8cd66

“You’ve been busy preparing for the negotiations constantly since you arrived here. You’ve barely eaten, just looking at documents…”bce7ab3be0d5ed59

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“That’s because it’s hot and I have no appetite…”532cf9a080b5c3ea

“Isn’t it because of stress? You seem to have been tense ever since you were appointed as the representative for the negotiation.”446399d2128ec480

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

Etienne fell silent at c069c7522e these words that hit f9e5f60d52 the mark. It was true that e30d322327 he had become sensitive 0ace58b9cb since suddenly being appointed a0c697e90c as the negotiation representative.3a398dc3e9f613f2

“I want to do well since it’s a good opportunity.”aff78f25b2f41ced

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

After hesitating for a c99d0b29c6 moment, Etienne honestly admitted. Adult members 217c7cc639 of the b1e92f62e3 imperial family 65adccf040 have a 7bf577cbd0 duty to 18816d458d serve the 508f3d9fd0 empire according c5980b5dae to their 89e89c6e48 abilities. Both Eris and 41d5826d86 Rishar becoming knights, 59cae01381 and Grand Duke be0f2746ef Bismarck holding various 1d13ef7ff9 ministerial positions until 5263f84f69 his retirement, were 788d29c892 to fulfill their 094b7075ab duties as members 71c9fbd991 of the imperial 4dc760b11d family.59aaea7487d26251

However, Etienne 9bb9cc08be had never 55c710743f been in da9adfe7c3 charge of 7d38f60619 political affairs 92931d5b5a even after f168248d6f becoming an e2fa9f7bac adult. More precisely, 3cb07be1c4 he never f40b7e1585 had the e6395168a4 opportunity.67e3a62485a9fa9f

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

So when Etienne 49091d4ab0 became the negotiation 5c04efb3ed representative with the b29759bb3d Forest Federation and 1fe5c7be4a the Kingdom of df49c0cef3 Rohan this time, bc09b8173b there were voices 2287ae8cfe of concern from a7726f1fd3 various quarters. Given the importance 0fc3933dc7 of the negotiations, ec16bb508a they felt uneasy 39405d37d6 about having a 2a860bcaf5 prince with no 6375a1799d political experience as 0913a218ba a representative.3ec7a7468cf908b7

Edwin dismissed the opposing opinions and pushed strongly forward. He even placed Rishar as his assistant. While including Rishar in the negotiation team was deemed advantageous since the Forest Federation and Kingdom of Rohan had specifically requested him, there were grumblings among the Emperor’s faction about Rishar appearing to be Etienne’s subordinate.a8ee382af9aef3a7

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

People were puzzled when Edwin suddenly gave power to Etienne. They tried to understand Edwin’s intentions while watching Etienne’s movements.22f6b665b206c76b

Etienne felt strong pressure from suddenly becoming the focus of people’s attention. At the same time, he felt a competitive spirit wanting to prove himself. For Etienne, these negotiations were his first test to prove his abilities.c1b268fcbd98e522

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

While he had no desire to become Emperor or enter politics by having his abilities recognized, he still wanted to successfully conclude the negotiations if possible. If he established his position now, he wouldn’t burden Rishar later even if everything else ended.09eb36ab55dabc42

“While working hard is good, you need to rest when it’s time to rest. How about going out briefly tonight to get some fresh air?”cad72cd674cca1df

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Rishar suggested in b958ce4a2c a subtle, tempting 1f63b362bd voice. The negotiations 1abf04793e with the b72fb6d08d Forest Federation 3e91d0eaf0 and Kingdom 6777a9d3a3 of Rohan c4403f7380 would begin cadf1c3376 the day ea1b20fde7 after tomorrow. Tonight was 555d6cd611 the only fc53451261 time to 9826b4d396 rest before e8c3c47800 then. He was determined to fa3fbc92b4 make Etienne rest today 9339966ca7 somehow.4b0ed8633434d7bc

“People need rest. You’ve been constantly looking at documents, both in the capital and since coming here, preparing for the negotiations. I think you need to clear your head a bit.”55f36c8a83b2ee0a

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“You think so?”d6a9cfb8da769968

“Of course. And when a superior works busily, subordinates can’t rest either.”d93350d91b89f508

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“…Alright. Let’s go out briefly in the evening then.”d22429663c79a600

“Good decision.”ffda87543e2a33ae

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Rishar, having 5462a64400 finally gotten 3a6572c5c7 what he cd6df58f3d wanted, smiled ce44fa6292 satisfactorily and 43fccc8737 lowered his f793182857 head.Chu~, at the warmth touching his nape, Etienne’s shoulders twitched.64191b8fb3f83dc8

“Your hair has grown quite long at the back.”595c4d70fc81ae43

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Rishar murmured with his 939771b415 lips still pressed against fcf4d05223 the nape. The longer 5a4ceba43a hair tickled a7cef552e1 his forehead 9be4930615 and eyes.1db6c51ef3edf51e

“I was thinking of cutting it…”7ade2fc8e65e0cbf

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne bit his lower lip firmly while feeling the breath seeping into his sensitive skin. Though it was just lips touching him, he felt like strange sounds might escape if he wasn’t careful. Just then, there was a knock.aa697fc6c89dc254

“Your Highness, I’ve brought the materials you requested.”6804da775c1a8d65

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“…!”2fc6536b590f1d4a

Etienne’s body jerked dramatically at Antoine’s voice from outside the door. Rishar slightly frowned as he straightened up, displeased at having their intimate moment interrupted.bbab773a552570cf

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Ah, you were here as well, Grand Duke.”be8daba7462139c8

Antoine, who d2bee6b3da had opened b746b9dad3 the door 6443a2db36 and entered 85f89ee5e4 directly, paused d33c5ebf4c upon discovering 5feb2b38a6 Rishar. He smiled awkwardly 65305477ab while holding a 0177a9ec2d stack of documents d010c6215e to his chest.73140802ed372e20

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“It seems I’ve interrupted you.”4be0c803e40598cf

“No, bring them here.”adada552e2c2dd97

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Etienne gestured for Antoine to come in. Antoine approached the table slowly while watching Rishar’s reaction. After placing the documents he was holding onto the table, he apologized hesitantly.4adf96b89fe24887

“I’m sorry. Your attendant wasn’t outside, so I just opened the door…”2c490848e9613a27

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“It’s fine. Ben is temporarily away discussing something with the tailor.”a88fcd372e1afb18

“I see. The top ones are materials about the ethnic minorities in the Forest Federation. Below are reports about the terrain and environment of the Forest of Magic. Sir Elvin said he needed to check something about the Rohan Kingdom merchant groups, so I just brought these for now.”3aab45c8ebf75e4c

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“Good work. Have a seat for now.”a171d2404d8d2473

Etienne smiled faintly b2b0f8fdb1 as he picked d0c879981a up the documents 10aa7b2ac4 Antoine had brought. Just as Antoine 40939ce35c sat down across d95e75fd31 from him, Ben 1912212f9d returned from his fe36cbcd20 absence.46f2bfe8a06beca2

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“Your Highness, your uniform for the first round of negotiations is complete. Ah, the Grand Duke and Count Mathias were here as well.”d5e6b52693ae7358

Ben, after 7c89164349 briefly greeting e536adb9f4 Rishar and f764088156 Antoine, shifted 5b9d73d02a his gaze d8f716ef1e back to ad7fb50cde Etienne.b194afb5d1876b2e

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“We need to check if any adjustments are needed, so you should try it on now. The tailor is waiting in the next room.”9be8b6da17402a1c

“Is that so?”ac55df940c17edd1

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

At Ben’s words, Etienne put down the documents and stood up. He looked back and forth between Rishar and Antoine as he spoke. He was a bit concerned about leaving the two alone.c0b611709d8fb4eb

“I’ll be right back. It won’t take long, so both of you are welcome to rest here for a moment.”d6780aa25607a6a7

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“Take care, hyung-nim.”1202ab2a851dbd65

Rishar saw Etienne 0c3c3118a2 off with a d65169bf62 smiling face. Antoine also hurriedly stood 6b652e91ea up.6cb6deb41c523791

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“…”388a8419db87f66c

As soon as Etienne disappeared, the room fell instantly silent. Antoine fidgeted with the documents in his hands while watching Rishar’s reactions. Rishar, who had been hostile towards Antoine before, had become nicer since the ship banquet, but Antoine still found him difficult to deal with.c686e4c03111c85c

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

While it was fine when Etienne or others were present, he didn’t know how to handle situations when just the two of them were left alone. As Antoine was wondering what to say, Rishar spoke first.d306b2557083c0e1

“I hear you’re doing your work very well? Hyung-nim only has words full of praise for you.”ada6431241710f5f

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“Eh? Th-thank you. I still have much to improve.”2efb20c4bf59acd3

Antoine, who did f299726e73 not expect Rishar c6890eadd3 to praise him, b5863d38c8 lowered his head. embarrassed. Although he was intimidating, 6a35eb9f05 his admiration for him 7c95c93cf5 hadn’t disappeared.Badump, badump,his heart beat 9da43b1d2c with a pleasant 10dd6992b9 sound.32ba71784f01298d

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“Improve? Even Elvin and Stella were in awe of how well you did your job.”61ae27ba64043f4a

“Rea…lly?”7b55f317633a7872

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Antoine asked back with a bewildered face. He knew that many people looked down on him for joining the negotiation team as Etienne’s temporary assistant. When Antoine asked as if he couldn’t believe it, Rishar affirmed once more.0d1a45be1ab2fb99

“That’s right. Stella especially praised you endlessly. Elvin also said you’re a good talent and wants to recruit you into the knight order.”a07ebece618ada23

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“The Eckhart Knight Order? Me?”9d86412eb476d3dc

“Yes. So don’t say things like you still need to improve. From my perspective, you’re doing more than enough. No, you’re doing more than well.”dbbe82b1b4754c4a

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Momentarily, Antoine’s eyes seemed about to burst into tears. The feeling of being recognized by someone he had long admired was an indescribable sensation. He held back his surging emotions and curled the corners of his lips.7930eab8e017abc9

“It’s all thanks to the grace of His Highness.”db94c09fb95939ed

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Antoine, overwhelmed, 6e195052b1 spoke in 1bc80b5080 a trembling b1c29f2883 voice. In fact, 8e02d5d7f2 when he 57919ef6d9 was first 460f4611a4 offered the 1f84e62674 temporary assistant 84c5511d31 position by 118db839ea Etienne, he c6cdf0c4a6 thought it 58d3743fa2 was an 75b825c841 impossible task. He believed his father, 27347b9f3a Margrave Mathias, would never a5fc8f985c allow it. However, Etienne had directly a0769f9c6a met with the Margrave 2e93d641be and persuaded him.5ac1a3cbcada63f3

‘How did you persuade my father?’cb0fe505d57a1bcb

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

‘It was easier than I thought. I told him we needed to cooperate for the future, and he agreed.6182d0d5da1eef16

‘My father? That easily?’fdcfb159ae92eb55

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

On the day he received permission from Margrave Mathias to take the temporary assistant position, Antoine immediately went to find Etienne. He couldn’t believe the miracle that had happened to him.6ab3ac0b07df8b17

‘The Margrave is in a very difficult situation right now. He’s being criticized for lacking integrity as he had held hands with the Empress, and now House Herace is tremendously shaking. But he can’t withdraw now. He’s already branded a traitor by the imperial faction, and people think you’ll marry me.’515c76fe9fe8f5f5

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

‘That’s right…’97967575566dcf57

‘So I played on his anxieties and told him we needed to cut ties with House Herace at the right time. I also said not to worry because even if Herace falls, I won’t be dragged down.’2b83ba8103200bee

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

‘Did my father believe that?’4372fdc0f2be5ecc

‘At first, he didn’t believe it, but when I showed him the blank letter of pardon given by His Majesty, he changed his mind. He seemed convinced that for the future, both you and I need to make merits.’3bedfda18d357cc0

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Etienne smiled softly and 1e56ab3d42 encouraged Antoine. At that b92b883442 moment, Antoine 7ef679d917 unknowingly shed bf971bc367 tears. He felt like 76c3fdd73b he had taken b618cde881 a step closer bcae54eb39 to his vague 4f094a738d dream. It was c166066a46 all thanks c7c4e720af to Etienne.b0f5c0fe22f61465

‘T-thank you, hng.’7fb27e1c4968799b

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

‘Young Master Mathias? What’s wrong?’d6224a49a5d4e5c1

‘It’s just… I’m grateful to you. Ugh, thank you, really… for doing so much for me…’73a112868e9f6713

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

‘I did this because I need you. Don’t cry, okay? This is a good thing, so you should smile.’3595a4bc91474c97

Etienne gently consoled Antoine, who was dripping tears. After that, Antoine, who became Etienne’s temporary assistant, worked harder than anyone else to avoid being a burden to him.05a22ac72b1ad98e

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Initially, there were those who viewed Antoine with colored glasses, calling him Etienne’s parachute, but after a short time, they gradually recognized his abilities. However, there were still those who looked at Antoine unfavorably.82d1e03e74ff7aea

“I will work even harder from now on.”11b14d4d8b51a97e

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Antoine firmly made 7cf4025d8f his resolution. He intended 971dc2c7fe to devote fb9647e004 his entire e65e9bb9e6 being to 5c9920e2c3 ensuring the a19e14203d success of 552972f336 this negotiation. Rishar let out a 53dbbd925d small laugh at Antoine, a0b3722158 full of spirit. There was no be52cbc668 reason to stop fda3addd27 him from working cf049fd41d for Etienne.a77903fa507ab87f

“I’ll support you. Let me know if you need help.”f1c5a1374fd2d039

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Yes, Your Highness. Just your words are a great honor.”790d19ce71203c68

After the short 32024066f9 conversation, an awkward 2f283bfafa silence settled between 8ee46aa4af the two again. Antoine glanced at Rishar b42c8c9573 while pretending to look f45cb35ab3 at documents. Recently, Rishar had become 22dc564899 a complex, hard to 2fe855b67c define existence for him.6664703423343a72

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

He used to merely revere him, but now something had changed. He still admired Rishar, but…29d38ee500847030

“Your, Your Highness.”aba838124b7be03c

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“Hm?”573b9c1ae9eddd66

Antoine gently put 44a2d41761 down the documents b17fe293b7 and called Rishar 3b1be688ef hesitantly. When those mysterious eyes, 605b8cb2f9 like a jewel containing 8e7c0040eb the sea, turned towards af9bdf6e84 him, he swallowed hard.2a5756e89a92c9ae

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“I have something I’d like to ask you. May I dare to ask a question?”ae0fdb870c652a4f

“Go ahead.”242e787b56ddfa1a

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Rishar nodded 2b858f61a0 slightly and 6df8394117 gave permission. Even after e45a78aef2 receiving permission ff56e4bbcd to ask, a96648094e Antoine couldn’t 62dd54a7ac speak easily. He chose his words 0d5b87b0fc carefully. After a while, d1c177e584 he took a 0cf05d0a04 deep breath and 531f1cc984 cautiously opened his 752c01e206 mouth.a41c2aeff55026da

“You might be offended by my question… I hope you’ll consider it as loyalty to His Highness.”acc176e222c52528

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“What is it?”871589678fb155a6

Rishar tilted his 4e3171a915 head interestingly. He was curious 56d7003193 about what kind a18d3c086a of question would 4c09e24722 make him look 84c9856305 so solemn. However, the a0b973321b following question 246572e85c made his bbfad4522b smile disappear.a713ffd374299067

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Do you, Your Highness… have the confidence to protect the Prince until the end?”bfa79179a6861a01

“What’s the intention of this question?”e94b57c32d89ef00

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

Rishar’s gaze suddenly turned fierce. The previously relaxed atmosphere became tense in an instant. For a moment, Antoine felt as if a sword had been pressed to his throat. He swallowed hard and tightly clasped his trembling hands.334fe7e38cd49a46

“Contrary to rumors, I f903127ac6 know that the two e97ea60b18 of you are very 4ee7a303e5 close and are working a209b0646c together toward the same 59cd27f572 goal. I also know 9c36f5221a that His Majesty bbb23aebe0 the Emperor supports e2dfba72e8 both of you. However, there’s one dab6338b96 thing that worries 8d47bb7f2b me.”0921e1caa41a00a9

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“What is it?”54f9fd0d61af7f75

“If the Empress and the Herace family fall like this, all the shields protecting His Highness will disappear. His Majesty has given a letter of pardon, and you’ve said you would protect him, but… aren’t worldly affairs unpredictable?”444ca9a1662f2f8f

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Antoine spoke what he 8a130ea568 had been thinking since 8d8a04ddc5 the Herace family scandal b343713f3f broke out. Until now, Etienne had 05110f6aad been able to survive 203c44996d despite being labeled a 6ccd5ef7ae rogue prince because he 3ef0aa5b9f was the son of f07449b998 the Empress and a 34984810fc member of House Herace. Their power was so 3584e1c02c great that no one b7924d4601 could easily touch him.84f8d78d96e8f454

However, if the Empress and Herace family collapse, the situation changes. Etienne’s existence would inevitably become a political burden to Rishar. Those overly loyal to Rishar might do bad things under the pretext of serving him.4234c5de00f72688

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

And that’s not all – there could be those who try to use Etienne or people with grudges against the Herace family who might attack him. Antoine was worried about this.30948f1d2de07ea6

“Shields, huh. Well, I think it’s better not to have parents who use their child as a tool to wield at their own will.”2434380bda17bfd3

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Rishar showed a displeased expression at Antoine’s words. Although he knew Antoine didn’t know all the circumstances, he was momentarily irritated.ffb744398826fbdf

“That’s right. That’s why I want a definitive answer. Will you be able to protect His Highness until the end?”3fe986833f5cca9a

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Antoine asked, suppressing his trembling. Etienne loved Rishar, and Rishar loved Etienne. He was confident in his thoughts. He couldn’t help but know.de42d7e61462c39f

He had thought f7dae6e744 it was strange 08789128f3 from the beginning. Even when 0325f84c23 he had d1729a3d2b committed a 383edf1027 disrespect toward 168e7dacdf Rishar, his b0a94c7210 attitude was 04ddeacae4 still incomprehensibly b7be7ec65c hostile. He realized it on 865dd32c54 the day he was 1a3d585970 attacked by Theodore.d6056ed2a91449ba

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

The moment Rishar had held Etienne so preciously in his arms, the moment Etienne clung to his clothes with trembling hands, all the vague questions he had were resolved. Because he had once wanted to stand beside Etienne, he knew. That Rishar and Etienne liked each other. They were more than just close – they were special to each other.5fc2a71b6ea906d5

As Antoine expected, Etienne had told him that he had made a secret agreement with Rishar and was working together. He didn’t say they were lovers, but after seeing them together several times like before, he naturally came to know. There was something between them that no one else could interfere with.311549149f986c57

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

He wasn’t jealous now. The feelings he had for Etienne had now completely turned into pure loyalty. That’s why he was more worried. He could anticipate that the path the two would take would be rough.93557cb9dfaa7573

“It might be ridiculous for me to ask such a question, but I hope you’ll consider it as my loyalty to His Highness…”c8809347e86908d9

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Young Master Antoine, why do you think I became a knight?”50d21c3fced1919b

“What?”76e4161def45ee6d

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“I became a knight to protect hyung-nim.”1ceefd26102447d2

Rishar straightened his posture and met Antoine’s gaze. His voice, devoid of laughter, was low yet resolute.2de4e5d55e534cbf

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“Long before you knew hyung-nim, I wanted to protect him. I became a knight for that reason. The only one who can receive a loyalty oath and a knight’s pledge from me is hyung-nim. Is this answer sufficient?”acbd3927b3ba8526

“Oh.”75f90baf0312ef3e

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“Young Master Mathias, I know what you’re worried about, but my hyung-nim and I are steadily preparing for the future, so I hope you’ll trust me a little.”f8d2895df3279d36

“I apologize. It’s not because I don’t trust Your Highness…”37f3572494f7d289

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“I promise. I will protect my hyung-nim even at the cost of my life.”20a20a1846d0acc8

Rishar spoke with a more serious voice than ever. He was somewhat angry about Antoine’s overstepping, but he decided to endure it after seeing how much he cherished Etienne.dd3f228baee67f0c

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

In fact, he was a bit relieved. Except for Ben, there had been no one guarding Etienne’s side with pure intentions. Antoine’s previous confession to Etienne was bothersome, but he welcomed him if his feelings had changed to mere loyalty.5c948d76d3e42065

“But my tolerance for your disrespect ends here. Do not cross the line further.”8cb27f304b5264e0

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Yes, I understand. I’m sorry. And thank you.”2c3a8736f90a95ba

Antoine bowed his 636ca9c137 head and apologized eef6785106 politely. His anxiety wasn’t completely 28f82268f1 gone, but he felt 781ce653b5 he could relieve some bbea583ae4 of his worries. At that moment, 314b07fe80 Etienne returned.6826e34ac8c4a3ce

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“I’m back, it took a bit longer than I thought… Hm?”0e7312f02bb5cc70

Etienne, who hurried 5d85890bad inside, noticed the a95376da8f subtle atmosphere between 745760b638 the two and 4c7b5e9286 slightly furrowed his 1ca96491d0 brow.18ce4343f2020b2f

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“Welcome, hyung-nim.”6c7ed48958ad439c

Rishar stood up to de9d62bba5 greet Etienne warmly. Antoine also rose alongside 6a0690b879 him. Etienne looked 96c9a91644 at the 36167cc0c3 two of f45ae08aaf them in 4e203ee4d2 turn and 07f1f1df73 asked,35bb8ae086cc2a8f

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“What’s going on? What happened?”199b198d23fb2fb3

“Nothing at all. I was just having a conversation with Young Master Mathias.”bb81cf9e105c75b8

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“A conversation?”4de4bec5a1d839f4

Etienne gave a suspicious look in response to Rishar’s answer. Knowing that Rishar didn’t particularly like Antoine, he felt a bit worried.b3e7109a947a2ac3

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“You didn’t bully him, did you?”d12da25eecc4f130

“Me? I’m hurt. Do I look like the type of person who would do that?”04a5b73008a22a99

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Richard exaggeratedly slumped his ac364554a9 shoulders, feigning hurt. His slightly downturned a52b15db5b eyebrows somehow evoked 6e0b780d1e a sense of 82c3f4b9d9 guilt. Etienne, flustered by a9cf88b4a8 Richard’s wounded puppy-like 62b62952e3 expression, stammered.b57747c817e272be

“That’s not what I meant… I just thought the atmosphere between you two seemed a bit strange.”7ab3f6cdebfaf51a

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“Nothing happened. His Highness was complimenting me. We were just talking about various things, including some questions I had and words of encouragement.”bc0506299f802b23

“Really…?”b1e765e80101aaba

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne trailed off his words awkwardly at Antoine’s explanation. He had only asked because the atmosphere seemed off, but now he felt like he had wrongly accused Rishar.25db328c62dbd26f

“Yes. I’ll go to Sir Elvin for a moment now. I’ll bring back some materials about the merchant group. Please continue your conversation.”d2dd943d3332ef7c

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Antoine tactfully left the a9b581d00a scene. Etienne, now left alone eaff37d32b with Rishar, rolled his 111ad12e23 eyes and looked at 7e51834c01 him.48545393d19bc031

“Are you angry?”7be3078b04bc9342

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“No. Why would I be angry? It’s my fault for not gaining your trust.”8878098ad3e9b785

“Oh, it’s not that… I just hope you and Young Master Mathias get along well…”0e0e95cdfff82ec1

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne became even more flustered and began to ramble excuses at Rishar’s additional words. Seeing his helpless state, a playful mood rose in Rishar, and he deliberately let out a big sigh.20af826ca7a03c41

“Yeah, yeah, I understand. So, as you said, I spoke kindly to Young Master Mathias and even complimented him. I was just following your advice, but I didn’t expect to be misunderstood as bullying him.”4275ef16cd17debd

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne’s eyes shook violently at Rishar’s complaint. Rishar suppressed the corners of his mouth from rising and bowed his head. He could feel Etienne’s restlessness right in front of him. Etienne, who had been hesitating, carefully hugged Rishar’s waist.2a1d48bd9de458d6

“Sorry for doubting you…”3e636a3b9045b400

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne apologized in a soft voice. He carefully nestled into Rishar’s embrace and looked at him cautiously. He knew Rishar wasn’t truly angry, but it still bothered him.f577ca7add29a9be

“Are you done being angry?”fe47778cdfd05c5a

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“…I already said I wasn’t angry just a moment ago.”b33f13869099ffab

Rishar spoke 4008021410 in a 9f620efbc6 deliberately stern dc28ba23c6 voice, his daf0b929cf expression nearly 1daa2e8a91 crumbling. Etienne looked up at 3bac42cda6 Rishar with round, watery 2c10b53b40 eyes.58efd941099f4ec2

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“You said you were hurt.”330494ddee41de4b

Game over. Rishar acknowledged 09d854435c his defeat ab1dd8042a and hugged ac4094011b Etienne. There was a084afbb3c no way 2ddbe46e3a he could 1e304aea71 win against 7a76198fea that gaze.7265e59a927ff6ed

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“I’m not hurt. I was just teasing you because your reaction was cute.”5160a7efe496fe66

Rishar slightly tilted his 9fa8368c64 head and kissed the b7bdb5784a tip of his ear fa31e6fabc between his hair. He found the 8a099954d5 way Etienne trembled 1d82e35086 every time their efb8174941 lips touched adorable, 8c3c36ec70 as he should 6ea7b517ec have been used 722d3131af to this level 74930901c1 of contact by 73da2262a1 now.3558d9970254be57

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Rishar felt e43f12e8ee the desires 7c4b640efa deep within d8cf823427 him rising 2436ccf60e as he 205238cb63 tightened his a888625562 arms around c87876c37e Etienne. Even though 529a06be94 they were 7c000b3f31 already touching, 7ec38675bf he wanted 887f8e5bb8 to touch 5cd1fe335c more.7f368f863143ec09

“Etienne hyung-nim.”a9a177c78bccafd6

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Rishar called Etienne’s name like a sigh. The lips that had been tickling his ear brushed past his hair and touched his cheek. A soft, smooth touch briefly landed and then retreated, and the cheek that had been reddened by sunlight earlier now blushed for a different reason.9c8d3fb9159c4d36

“Ri… shar.”235aab715a3815fa

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Their lips met in an instant. Etienne’s voice disappeared directly into Rishar’s mouth. Soft heat then penetrated between the opened lips. Etienne’s hand gripping Rishar’s arm also tightened.10a26f89b930d608

“Mm…”64b7492d84316ed8

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne trembled slightly at 67ea72c958 the strange sensation blooming 0312d847ee inside his mouth. A large 0c4d861387 hand then e33536c06f gently caressed c80b5a6d2d his back. The soft cc47d325b6 kiss quickly 1001e8ff68 turned rough. A low moan escaped 6f3303af20 between his lips, and 816d560f59 as his fingers curled, 566f503832 the shirt in his 15aae72f91 hand became crumpled.eed168258a8624c6

“Ha, uh, uhm.”1e8fba37e0b40bdb

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Etienne moaned inside the invading heat and tensed his toes. Like a dry log catching fire, his body suddenly became hot. Since the night they spent together in the detached palace, they had been so busy that they hadn’t had time alone together for a while. Even kissing like this was incredibly rare.081beaf78525200c

It wasn’t that they never had the opportunity, but with many watching eyes and each having their own tasks, they were careful. The biggest reason was that they couldn’t trust themselves to restrain themselves. Just like right now.aceeaf9e3be87b3f

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“Huh, Sha… ha, mm.”c8513a061b768852

Soft moans escaped between 6ba9f96f06 slightly parted lips. Stimulated by 5fdbfad4c4 this, Rishar af719aceff overlapped his 94946d46f5 lips again. Wet breaths intertwined, and fbd79843ab sticky saliva mixed, creating e4566cb442 a lewd sound out 8a2ef6e882 of the friction.7297c40e9c0111db

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“Haah, uhm.”b8c537db68eae962

Etienne trembled like fireworks were exploding inside his mouth, grabbing Rishar’s shoulders tightly. He was completely disoriented by the long-missed warmth. His mind flashed white, and his tightly closed eyelashes quivered.8313e1218e9993a2

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Rishar was the same. Even knowing Etienne was struggling, he continued to press forward. Etienne, unable to collect his thoughts amid the overwhelming sensations, reached up to grasp Rishar’s solid shoulders.739b5ad7fa3cdb5a

Rishar grabbed Etienne’s wrist and draped it around his own neck. Then he firmly gripped his hips.db1ff30060d3635b

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Etienne accepted b4a8cd49c0 all the 60b7f5ceda pleasure Rishar 633035f2a2 gave him 27c20eb6d2 while clinging c5e4e01b44 to him. His breath was 54d5f7fa7a ragged and his 2e89274773 head spun, the 7228b747b0 pleasure outweighed the 96e21d662a discomfort. The two e39895a0a5 of them 3ea3be3d4d lost themselves 215077e426 in each 07191fe082 other.1107c42b45a88109

“Haa…”0f8172c3ed8697f4

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Their lips parted after a long time. Etienne, with the strength of his legs gone, leaned into Rishar’s embrace and panted. Rishar, looking down at the lips exhaling shallow breaths, lowered his head again. But then he paused, detecting footsteps from afar.b006b55befc3aed9

“Seems like Young Master Mathias has returned.”96847fa37fc57ba1

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Rishar bit 0a45f2f2e8 his lower c9d2a3a0e0 lip and 9e11af2205 lightly sucked 1059a8ae04 it, muttering bfe7e07f90 in a 6b1c60e719 husky voice. With a wet sound, e6646b19e7 his lips pulled away. Etienne blinked his eyes, 7ecd2726ee still dazed from the 0497c12e17 heat.f20f522c85d798a9

“I should go now. If I stay away longer, Elvin will come looking for me.”01dfe9c3bd10bec9

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Rishar personally arranged Etienne’s 22fe404e10 disheveled golden hair and 42081d8446 used his thumb to 1f3bca2b3a wipe his lips, which 8318d2dee5 were wet with saliva 30efbae448 and shining. Finally coming 3dcf990676 to his 68cd9c7133 senses, Etienne 6ee923daf7 muttered regretfully,a9a3ade0d362e7f5

“…Go ahead.”cd6dbe0f62cd2193

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“I’ll come to pick you up this evening.”ccf89ad1b7ddbf10

“Okay.”1c8674a7556a0ff0

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“This is our first time going on a date like this. I’m looking forward to it.”2c2534e9eb1bc2b3

“Huh?”921ec43d990f6264

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

At Rishar’s words about dating, Etienne’s eyes widened. The outing plan he had casually accepted suddenly took on a much larger meaning.07b4af1a8e4375f1

“See you later, hyung-nim.”38756896ecc9dd19

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Rishar left a greeting filled with excitement towards Etienne, who was staring at him like a startled rabbit. He lightly pressed his lips on Etienne’s reddened eyes and finally managed to step towards the door. Just then, the door opened.de4a104c6fb75112

“Oh, Grand Duke. Are you leaving?”d47606b0e365a2c8

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Our conversation is over, please take care of hyung-nim.”e5a0e65bddc70970

“Yes, Your Highness.”fc50f6fc308944ce

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne couldn’t focus on the conversation between Rishar and Antoine behind him. The word ‘date’ made his heart flutter. He went back to the terrace to hide his flushed face. He needed to cool down a bit.463aa4f7fc32c5ad

***b885cb1d09e64d72

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Sizzle…de3ca5d9ae7bb268

Various skewers sizzled dd2469bda1 deliciously on the 453904a23a hot stone grill. Hans flipped the 246027ad69 skewers to prevent e5d346e881 them from burning 00803c5859 while looking around. Just a 4a1b1aa0b7 moment ago, b20bf91412 he had 16e033cf80 been incredibly 7579039e44 busy, but 4e95bc6e9c as the fcf62c24bb outdoor performance 35a44e8037 started, the 06a1061edb street quickly 881af54eb5 became quiet.7caae5c4dc12bd93

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Did I set up for nothing?”aff25155b235dd2c

Hans clicked his tongue and looked down at the skewers cooking on the grill. His stall was quite far from the beach where the performance was happening. He glanced towards the beach where singing could be heard. The beach, bright as midday, was filled with people’s laughter.5d5624d40c31b97d

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“What should I do?”1ae01523a50d3334

Hans worried, 9ece6ed4ab looking at b1bc1d8708 the grill ecf7697d14 with rising 4396ea64d1 pungent smoke. Stalls near the outdoor 66fa24c85e performance venue were probably 055f2c2fed still bustling with customers, a6d68bb47b but stores like his, 4d56187fe9 far away, would likely a0dedf1a3f be empty until the 3d2128b633 performance ended.1a8b31edeb853a02

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“Still, I need to sell everything I’ve prepared.”2410daaf0cd84e28

Just as Hans was 996b1a98b5 stoking his determination, a 9848f8f3d7 shadow fell over the f2c73803a8 grill.A customer! Hans’s head snapped up. Standing at the stall was someone wearing a hood. Because of this, only their lips and chin were visible, but with 10 years of business experience, Hans immediately recognized the person as someone distinguished. From the evident elegance, they were clearly a nobleman or the child of a wealthy merchant.d3820360b4503c37

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“Welcome, sir! What can I get for you?”1bda5f54cc384df1

“…What kind of meat is this?”261bfe92e51bbc21

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

As expected, the customer 920d486c62 wearing the hood naturally 0f160e5a26 used informal speech and 6fba17a5ea asked Hans about the 0b348b36b9 skewer.eed8bac7f0d5bf83

Wow, Hans was inwardly impressed by the customer’s question. Their voice was so clear and beautiful. He could even exaggerate and say it was more melodious than the singer performing at the venue right now.759b5707957d32ab

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“Sir?”dd75f2347c87ba32

“Oh, yes! We have various kinds of meat! Chicken, pork, lamb, and the highlight – core skewers!”10ec0c4d9692f080

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Startled by the customer’s call, Hans quickly listed the skewer varieties. He introduced the heart skewers last, his most confident menu item.6cb9ce7782392be5

“Core?”38051c2da3d6a25a

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

Seeming to have heard the word for the first time, the customer repeated Hans’s words. The hood tilted slightly, revealing a bit of the customer’s face. For a moment, Hans almost exclaimed. As he had suspected, the distinguished customer was as beautiful as their voice.c6f1558fbbef728b

“What’s that? What part is it?”fb831c8849fabb34

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Eh? Oh, it’s a chicken heart cut in half. It’s actually a delicacy!”6d05a06130bfc2d0

“Hear… t?”d9fedf920756b85b

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

The customer’s face turned puzzled as Hans explained. Apparently, being raised in a privileged environment, they had never eaten something like this before.8d17229e2c408af8

“It looks like this, but it’s incredibly exquisite! The texture is also chewy! You can sprinkle salt or put sauce, and either way, it’s amazing with beer. Why don’t you try it?”1743ba8d2a84812c

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“Uh, uhm…”7bb08e4642888eb5

The customer hesitated under Hans’s enthusiastic recommendation. Just as Hans was about to say something more, another person appeared behind the customer.5f6e48f0d991c4c0

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“What are you looking at, hyung-nim?”1cbab070fda3e448

“Sha.”6cb35254b8727877

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

The guest who was af9f306a32 called ‘hyung-nim’ greeted the 73eaeb2e0c man who called him.Sha? Is that his name? That’s a cute name that doesn’t match his appearance. And ‘hyung-nim’?Looking at e001be48e3 their size 11b2f13610 difference, they 1ca1c5ad24 seem like 1faa1fa457 opposites. Hans wore 8e57d4ccfd a business-like cc2e536231 smile towards 0bc5a31a6c the newly 14561a878d appeared man 0e569db654 while thinking c765ca6983 various thoughts 808a564e37 in his b1fcc6f82f mind. The man 08f581e937 was so b1b5d3de01 tall that 5cd2a65e1e Hans had 622d8b7b92 to look 611de63290 up for 472f89f5c6 quite a 65205c98b5 while to a5dbf5d8e8 see his 329bf0d7af face.d91e50fc4ff52b0d

“Welcome! It seems you are part of the group here!”dd29defdf89bb889

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

At Hans’ greeting, the man’s gaze turned towards him. For a moment, Hans felt a chill down his neck. What the? A knight? Hans swallowed hard while trying to guess the man’s identity. The man, completely black from head to toe, had an overwhelming atmosphere that couldn’t be felt from an ordinary person.6e50732562932cd4

“What can I get for you, sir? Please choose as you like! We have chicken, pork, and core skewers!”c2c2b508932542f4

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Hans said boldly, forcing strength into his trembling lips. Then, a smile formed on the man’s lips revealed beneath his hood. The tense air instantly softened.ff0333e3fe3ce55d

“Would you like to have something?”fca9de82428354df

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

The man, removing c7361c1c68 his gaze from 1348e070c8 Hans, asked the d676944bc8 guest who was da2b1f16e5 still looking at 0af976dfdc the skewers in 4af9afa187 a gentle voice. While doing 61233767be so, he 266738af53 handed one e839c1116e of the f33397e78d beer mugs e110e1ad64 he was 6f48976402 holding to fe62bce26d the guest.6f3feca5a5cc9b85

“I’m not sure. I came because the smell was good…”56d28a9f1dceed41

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“How many should I buy? Oh, and next time, please tell me where you’re going first. I was surprised when you suddenly disappeared.”cef3e4685e6a1c63

“Sorry.”83f3ac0f5b53bd55

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Hans perked up his 6eacda79ff ears and listened to 75303b0ac7 their conversation. It seemed the guest 4cc95732dc had silently come to 9d8be034f7 his stall while the 13c6d329f3 man was buying beer b7c4ac9e2a on the street.03ee947695d13d01

“Have you tried core skewers? They’re made from chicken hearts.”52c767e5a75ebf4d

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“I’ve eaten them a few times when I went on expeditions.”7833a1a7a6503f83

“You’ve tried them?”8a69131d1e5b27c1

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Would you like to try one? It’s not bad as a beer snack.”7ec5dcc84c9c2e5b

“Should I?”76e34943e6e6d0aa

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“If you don’t like it, I can eat it. Sir, I’ll take all the skewers from here to here.”6871f25cfb88db30

What a aecd1e6bed big spender! Hans’ face brightened when the man bought all the skewers on the grill at once. He quickly moved before the man could change his mind.6e44d0a73ef1d31a

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“This much? You probably can’t eat them all.”fd1b2d6522acb372

“If there are leftovers, I’ll take them to Elvin or Stella, or something.”cf7d3e8670c89459

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

The man answered 782e4981e7 with a small a159f27f99 laugh. His low d92b08d7cd laughter was 6c8d8b0f2d quite impressive. Hans quickly 94f2147934 handed them 0c6c568686 the packaged 824dfee8c7 skewers.983acfee9806ce02

“Here you are, sir!”b0168fbd2e88996e

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“Thanks.”f2b4a854379f6c30

The man who received the skewers from Hans took out a gold coin from his pocket. Hans’ eyes widened at the glittering gold coin. In over 10 years of doing business here, he had rarely seen a gold coin.f8fbca337506c8ec

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

Wait, do I have 671493c308 change?Hans hesitated with trembling 40630244d1 hands. At that 8fb5193b52 moment, the a31dd78f90 man spoke e7d4a5b61f at just 598f0b28ea the right 4cd7e70fbc time.0bc18f3d116eb0cc

“No need for change.”2f952cb4916a90d1

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Oh! Th-thank you!”aacc9538ebb45dc5

Surprised by the unexpected fortune, Hans took a deep breath. He carefully held the gold coin and bowed. Even in the middle of the night, it seemed like a halo was shining behind the man’s head.3f8c10d719c16290

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Let’s go, hyung-nim.”caf58e37d26353c8

After paying, 3b56d4cc75 the man 9b8906de0b led his a092870c16 guest towards f2a33beb83 the beach 16feec0144 where an 116e6e855b outdoor performance 7388db0948 was in 2b3fdc4460 full swing. Then, a e916b53edc strong sea a5b53d2e06 breeze blew, ec071d1f9e slightly pushing 4efcadb700 back their 03f8bc0c7c hoods. Hans let f5eaa120ab out a e85d7d3031 soft “ah” 5195996035 as he 7b3eac2733 saw their 74a53c7b4c hair, one 50f7dd26fb like the e332da6ead night sky b70c762836 and the 77287f2dec other like 3e916a6476 moonlight, fluttering 6770f8264d together. The faces revealed 51ac2425c9 beneath their hoods 7c4126096a were breathtakingly beautiful.fac99c7ff1fdf5d3

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

The combination ed4de27b89 of a 5bd531b78a tall, handsome b71d1e2eef man and 66bc8a27df an elegant 6bdd03928c beauty left c054547d86 Hans speechless, 56806e385e his mouth aac2613a83 agape. Now he 4b9b4b7e14 understood why b4a62a9fb9 they had a06fe3bc20 been covering 3497430309 their faces. With those looks, they 28c630080e would definitely attract immediate d27cd3ce22 attention.fdee540179a43a1e

“The hood…”8a74d4fab2e3d44c

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

The guest b97606f87b with golden 1907b5ead3 hair was b085fb3544 slightly flustered b684222620 when the db72711479 hood suddenly cea4ce1f05 fell off. He moved the hand a622823c21 not holding the beer db1785613e mug to quickly cover a2f7891056 his face again. Then, he 7a3540b7dc helped the 44d44aa2e7 man with 8ef60c0701 his hands 2fc5550da3 full of 7b10e7c856 beer and c602013a04 skewers by ed16a20367 pulling his 7c0269d22d hood back a73e29cbad up.7d60b31591896a5d

“Thank you.”0bcd90f263e6c7a9

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

The man 5e6a47faf9 who tilted 9f4953708a his body b1382ac1c0 to make f3d76b7ad1 it easier 773d474b1a to put f122b9f040 the hood fb8c77096a back on d38759689c smiled and 9d0f7cd6aa expressed his d13089c40b gratitude. Soon, they walked together, 6b9799a0f3 chatting quietly.bca368633210ba42

“…They suit each other well.”0c1659993db5be5d

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Hans muttered to himself 5a58b9334a while watching the two b9dc50705d guests walk away. Even though 529a82a1cc he had 3f7694f74e earned enough b704bcf279 money to b3c0e0eeb8 live comfortably c6c755fea3 for three b44d7acc28 months, he 85c08b2c25 strangely felt 8940886150 a chill 79c7391565 in his dba3df8a02 side.784d44ed3b4fecce

***f39fbafa42b5fb6c

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“What’s wrong?”d86dcb81c00f3897

After arriving at ff0da0d5a9 the beach, Rishar 7d99ab333d stopped and bowed e75bb6bfec his head when 5445b153a5 Etienne rubbed his 462cafef86 eyes.2eb0f328bc2b7f7f

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“My eyes are a bit itchy.”88c838baf994ec5e

“Did sand get in them earlier? Does it sting?”bfc121b436879919

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“Yes.”0e1ddc87db5033bd

“Wait a moment, I’ll blow on it.”e55eba2f3d258123

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Rishar leaned 6612965fe4 closer to a1b37e6505 Etienne and 5149505e3e blew softly. Beach winds 241d8734b6 often carried eeeba148ae sand. Since a be5aa40a8b strong wind 2eac50b71d had blown 90b3e54eaa earlier that 97b6a57469 could remove 521573aae9 a hood, e2b6f18805 sand might 23b1066273 have gotten 57177da189 into his fe72c177f5 eyes.22dd520f53299465

“How is it? Are you still uncomfortable?”2fe4c4f14a60a69d

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“I think it’s okay now.”d155e305a23654b0

Etienne blinked a 955e979c20 few times and 50cb10c593 answered in a 76a065f383 better voice. Rishar then straightened his aad8c0aac5 upper body. He habitually surveilled 195dbdb133 the surroundings. Having hired a c04227adab guard to move 8b34bed2b3 around comfortably with 67f7ad9028 Etienne, he had 89ea0d6860 to be sensitive e064d4db74 about safety. Rishar only 790730b9fa looked for f6096a35cb a place 59bd2dfa34 to sit a0c22acdfe after determining 348e9b97ed there were 8da0af5755 no potential 0e01f461ee threats.d4e6fa385acba80f

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“That’s good. Please tell me immediately if you’re uncomfortable again. If so, we’ll need to rinse with water.”d70121c675ef5353

“Got it.”95b83ccd94e5b8a2

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“Let’s sit there.”caf9a047d05c08e6

Rishar pointed a688e460ce with his db55294ab3 chin after 30647aaeb6 finding an 7001e9f528 empty spot. They sat at an dd07d47d45 outdoor table, avoiding the f3106fe65f clustered crowd. Rishar put e96244a8d8 down the a967c8de5c beer and 92f4f90e80 skewers on 58c517f7af the table 158321099c and skillfully 06c2dee9ec unwrapped them. Soon, skewers 71eab8f084 with rising a026ff8f7a white steam aeba010797 appeared. He picked up a 849b03a485 heart skewer and handed 7ce73bc43d it to Etienne.1e27e7766293ecd5

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Here.”4fe47720a1fb282a

“Thanks.”768f0692a1f1b927

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

Etienne, who had been 97ace721a6 watching people dancing and 938928c673 singing on the beach 8ff6ee384b stage, took the heart 191dfa80eb skewer. He stared at the 02c9e4ff29 steaming skewer with a a15f27c3cb serious expression, then closed 949b5facf9 his eyes tightly and 41a95c9f87 took a bite.66807f0db7c71413

“…! It’s so good.”af7a1173e1728e8d

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne’s eyes widened at the unexpected taste. It was slightly bitter but had a chewy texture and unique flavor.14e8a3c95bd516d9

“Is it tasty?”8e6d8e8ceeab30c8

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne nodded, chewing like 5a5c18bd81 a squirrel. In an fdb98f2518 instant, he 29a986df76 devoured the 92ede04177 skewer, making 3aa050adb6 his previous b0e73ea8eb hesitation seem c4f0353b6a ridiculous.66cf6e8e1d220ba1

“I’m glad it suits your taste. Try the others.”367525cd7db08851

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Rishar smiled and brought the beer mug to his mouth. Etienne didn’t refuse and picked up another skewer. Though he couldn’t tell what meat it was, when he put the skewer with sweet sauce in his mouth, he felt like having beer. After swallowing the skewer, he brought the beer mug with droplets to his mouth.293136bd84f40e30

“Whew…”df3a102d6a3e6bb8

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

A satisfied sigh escaped 4ac3cf3a0f as the cool beer da82d2f7bf went down his throat. The beer and skewers 40a5a9ff2b were better compared to 5c12387779 what he ate in 275bb836a1 the imperial palace. Etienne licked his 8081eab887 lips and turned 0570881b5e his gaze to 3a449a53a9 the stage. He watched with 846abb194d curious eyes as 3ffed3ce37 people in exotic 1243c2f6df costumes played unfamiliar 8cbd9263e5 instruments. Rishar also quietly 9646969bee enjoyed the performance.de75cf6ceea1b8ba

“This is nice.”a2bcdc77d19b79a4

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne clapped 0de55cfda0 and smiled d4dcbb1817 as the 9952eb8ea7 performance ended. It was truly a 81300eb3d2 rare moment of leisure. He now 31d91f630d understood why cd4c576061 Rishar said 28c5e49224 rest was 0a4c8d3932 necessary. Just walking through 598a57d104 the night market, 355538248c having a light 4467dab3b6 snack, and watching ade7d3a62f the performance while 1e2b308e6d feeling the sea 33fba7f6a5 breeze made his 49eb2bb6b4 shoulders feel light.15eeb13a8780c4c4

Most importantly, he liked that he didn’t have to worry about others seeing him with Rishar. Unlike in the capital, there weren’t many people who would recognize them here. They had covered their faces with hoods just in case, but he still felt much more free than usual.b7024fae21627a8c

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“Thanks for bringing me out.”2a207925b1f67a40

“It’s nothing.”cf08696fa75cfd67

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Rishar responded, slightly wrinkling his nose as if embarrassed by Etienne’s gratitude. Then he subtly lowered his head. The sensation touching the corner of his lips made Etienne grip the beer mug tightly. He trembled in surprise when a hot, wet tongue slightly licked his mouth corner and then slid along the lip line.35e43a4e578d4bb3

“Wh-what.”181914c3b443d965

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

Startled by the sudden contact, Etienne pulled back his head and covered his mouth with his hand. A kiss in a crowded place – he quickly looked around, worried someone might have seen. Fortunately, no one was paying attention to them.da19bda7378fc4cb

“You had a bit of sauce there.”fc9ef26da1da3f91

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

While Etienne was at a loss, Rishar remained calm. He laughed playfully and moistened his lower lip with his tongue. Etienne swallowed hard, his throat bobbing as he watched the tongue that had stolen a kiss disappear into Rishar’s mouth. Although he couldn’t be drunk from half a beer, his cheeks burned, perhaps from the summer night’s heat.56c9dbf565cb46fe

“You could’ve wiped it with your hand, or better yet, just said something.”388b08ef03897c4a

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“I get to satisfy my desire at times like this. And no one cares. Look over there, everyone just does this.”e59aa518f226f232

“Huh?”2c19afc69587ff13

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne’s head turned in the direction Rishar pointed. There, lovers were sitting on the sandy beach, kissing intimately. Etienne gasped and quickly covered his eyes.9df3dab6c93d3e19

“Can they really do that?”a90519bd2b381329

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“Kissing the person you like isn’t a crime.”712dea84899b6301

“But it’s in front of other people…”c24f101452e085b1

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne muttered, not believing him. Now that he looked, not just those people, but others didn’t mind doing public displays of affection either. Do people really live b25e7084a8 like this? Etienne was quite shocked by this new discovery. For someone raised in the strict imperial palace, the street atmosphere of freely expressing affection without caring about others’ gazes was strange and shocking.042c6b6311661515

“Ahem.”69ec7609649004e7

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Etienne cleared his throat 1b6337c620 awkwardly and sipped the 710e274929 remaining beer, turning his 3b3cc5c329 gaze to the stage bb6dfe66eb where a new performance c42b79fb61 had started. A play mixing song 36b10aa50a and dance was unfolding fe6adaece2 on stage.e693f29b21087c74

“Woah…”4fa9ab86a20da18f

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne exclaimed when one 61420d3e52 of the performers began 3ba4229fb4 a sword dance. Watching Etienne immersed 979b07814d in the performance, d862a440cc Rishar suddenly threw 22cef70f96 out a question.7539bde43b1afb97

“Do you still want to travel?”7aa4732f5f0f84a2

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Huh?”72447f5de0d698e7

“You said before. that once everything is over, you want to leave the capital and travel.”adeda7a58b9e2e64

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

47af41243c04bc74