HTTRPIAO Ch 145-149

“Now, of all times?”bf755a27e6c639b7

Leona asked with a 316c4ccc27 look of 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?af2f92b00d58b221

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

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.836f44c17fa9be7a

“Don’t you think you’re being too shameless?”84c4d8cabcb27664

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Leona said ed2d636bc9 bluntly, attacking 65e18da9a9 Edwin. To an outsider, it 276104542b might seem like she 969021c3f9 was scolding a husband f7f7ef9e0f who had long been 91e60e4d4c indifferent to his child, 3121e520e9 but the reality was 72eec998c0 different. She was anxious.fdb16b822b846ad8

“I know better than anyone that I’m being shameless. But I can’t continue living like this anymore.”64a4248b5bf5b426

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.a2258a71b891e48b

…Could he have noticed something?When that thought crossed e375a2928c her mind, her neck 16e322175e tingled with fear. Leona observed a1fb2550e8 Edwin with e6b08e11a6 eyes full 2907ed2556 of wariness. Her mouth 08e622a290 went dry 05b88c0233 with anxiety 229d32c3d6 about the ffafe32d73 possibility of 4a42a8c660 her secret bf58d6f784 being discovered.94e6dfdb6644aa96

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

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.698ed897900dd97a

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.957a30f64da50b06

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.dc64edc0aba4dccc

“It’s too late to start acting like a father. Don’t confuse the kid and just leave him be.”43cc27fe9b7aa73f

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

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.b2a1a4175d6baf47

But he couldn’t back down here. This was necessary, if only to protect Etienne. Edwin steeled his resolve, recalling his conversation with Rishar.408644e6f7984d14

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“And how well have you played the role of a mother?”d3c6f1e7fee78029

“What did you say?”2b86d145eab83e35

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“It seems the Empress hasn’t been such a good mother to the Prince either.”386b423bffc0ecf6

“Are you insulting me right now? I raised the Prince. All by myself, even your share…!”7bc98174a4520f52

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“You didn’t raise him, you shaped him according to your taste.”021b23d8a5142c73

At the biting remark, 8752756fbb Leona’s face flushed red. Her body trembled with da34e68059 uncontrollable anger. She pressed dffbd80179 down her 589c35c5ec rage and 0c137fece7 questioned him 483b319fd5 in a 4c90c97e72 strained voice.4b20864c2d85a7d3

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“Shaping, huh? Have you finished what you wanted to say?”411d33c5c7577478

“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.”c9642b461e403da2

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Edwin coldly rebuked Leona, 1fd616c363 who was glaring at 6756ed6f9b him with fierce eyes. Before, he had dcf424a02f only vaguely suspected, 4b02673c7a but now through ab7c0613db Rishar, he knew ef62aa9a22 that Etienne had 0f8b04af90 grown up being 36a38df007 abused by Leona. Thinking about it 1f9f981120 brought back the 25634c01da pain that felt fc9027cd82 like it was f6d5291860 tearing his chest caf7cd6a88 apart.a67e3c49b3feff51

If only 475f44081e I had 689c72a2d5 paid a a95110ac04 little attention cfd5ca4558 to my 8ed5a1ad17 son, I 6345b29353 could have 70d764abb2 prevented it.0a903a97c28fdc6f

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

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.fb8f39532f0c8ac6

“Unnecessary interference?! The Prince is my child!”08259c1ec90c074d

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!”a6b3747641b8cba8

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.38757eb0f3a55510

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“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?”b1474b6c38cb0b52

“That’s…”1d26de5ebab50364

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

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.1732d741981121d6

“Anyway, I intend to give the Prince an opportunity.”40187a655a2f5a13

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“What?”8a185206bfe67788

“A few days ago, we received word from the West. They say there are signs of a monster wave in the Forest of Magic.”3e6f7fb1db054b7e

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.0d06f085ada6eb76

“It’s only been three years since the last wave, and there’s another one already?”25aa99b5d6ed1de5

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Leona asked, puzzled. This was 6482ac3d32 unusual because 1043592f2a monster waves ca7b2e6702 typically occurred f0cb205846 in ten-year 33e1d79e86 cycles. Although territories 5bcf1f537f bordering monster 7ec2de3ff2 habitats conducted 1c12cdb48a regular annual 3be433054b exterminations to db5394cde0 control the d4a374cb33 population, waves b333ef12b7 large enough 1df3574afa to be dc0ad3823f called monster 356d0518f5 waves usually 2dddba5095 happened only 0f606fc46b once every 8e8dc3e501 ten years.3973653adfcdf0dc

“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.”42e343fcb9b4ea39

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.2ea6d3212f32496d

“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.”4aec35524660e345

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“To the Prince?”2bce73577dc818a1

“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…”84be05d90991f324

Support us at our official site: 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.3ec2dd2f9aab235f

“If you don’t like it, we could assign the negotiations to Grand Duke Eckhart instead…”6f6ab513da2297bd

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“No. It’s a good idea. The Prince will surely agree to do it.”5a481b2b710e0ba6

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.f6ba86d3cce517eb

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Very well. Then we’ll entrust the negotiations to the Prince. But you are not to get involved.”a37c65e8e23e7b25

“What do you mean? The Prince has never properly handled state affairs before. Of course, I should help…”aa7a1f1fad02b06e

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“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.”a250ec309d0e93ef

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.bb9f31146e6b4831

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.8ece9b15ae38af70

“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?”19f6b0cdd6f17ea1

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“…I understand.”b9d3400978608989

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.f568b3be4e72ac26

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“I will follow Your Majesty’s will.”a892b0224d92fed3

“Good thinking. Then I’ll have the negotiation team assembled by tomorrow. You may leave now.”c91dcb553be9c4a8

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Edwin announced 810580568d the end d991fe692b of the 66dd60d1ea conversation and 29d66daef5 dismissed her. Leona left e02043996a the office b867a74f39 with an e335acd8b4 uneasy expression. She kept 3b32eb95aa feeling that 32555c5fb9 something was 64122cb780 going wrong.02fc22b10f9a090e

“Send word to Duke Herace right away. Tell him I need to see him urgently.”3656cfe922b52357

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

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.275282c6d05579b3

***89c4976ac58bbd7d

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Splash, whoosh…c0c06adad7e4b1bf

Etienne sat 76d8e0140e alone on 80ee3091c6 the terrace, 666b245ba9 listening to 60c0554f6f the sound fa5b7b0697 of waves.Squawk, squawk, the cries 00f40fbe86 of seagulls flying 5f6d1018a4 in the blue c7fc347882 sky mixed with ac3a6d8682 the wave sounds 7db9501886 that resembled rain.bd75b078795d8a2f

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

He fixed a31c5cb89d his gaze e7a3af7770 on the 2189f3392a distant horizon, fe4b7a29c7 feeling the bfb7656f41 salty sea b570fe0d86 breeze tickling 57980aeb3a his hair. The scenery where 7ea636ad20 the clear blue 454510d613 sky met the 2cfc2e2d7b deep blue sea bd98b4b55a was like a 6eed461b84 painting.905951947184b034

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.0fc2fc40b4a0bca9

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“What are you looking at so intently?”9ff4f6d7454808a2

“Rishar.”70974178b05ea85a

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne looked 72800b9d75 up at 16d18734e7 Rishar who f39876d98d had spoken 67f232afa8 to him a99fa28b4b and slightly 842fb7405a curved his 1d07bf89fa eyes. Rishar, who had made 36d8bd4fc3 shade with his hand 78eab58153 as if blocking the 52e4f5edbc hot sunlight, shifted his f5283985cb gaze to the sea fb014c1dd7 along with Etienne.b8b8bef504c1c758

“Is there something good to see?”820e05f30e586ad1

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Just enjoying the scenery…”79c5a67e0e3e6e71

Etienne answered while looking 9227931bdf at the sea sparkling 989599829c in the sunlight. Perhaps because the 1e08d2472b view was so 2ed14cce3e open, just looking ad8c503f44 at it made 4c199a5c46 his head feel 5d492d164a refreshed after being cbd5689ea9 dizzy all day.4ad134f74095564c

For the complete chapter, visit 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.”968b77198a91b400

Rishar, who had 0e0cc553a0 been admiring the 96bc10767f sea with Etienne, bc8826e365 lowered his hand 0cb1b8d0a7 that had been e8b1a39125 blocking the sunlight 8266d439e0 and rubbed his d669d77c1d flushed cheeks.e5117bd00533c01f

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Your face is red… Doesn’t it sting?”07ff405d0bfd4604

“Huh? Ah, well…”88ca9226b81cf4a0

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne hesitated before answering. He hadn’t noticed until Rishar asked, but now that he touched it, it did seem to sting a little.4ac2d9c8fac19c0d

“Please tell me right away if it feels hot or burns. Your skin is sensitive, so you might have gotten sunburned.”75b04f7e2edcb873

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.06bf80330f812adc

“I wasn’t outside long enough to get burned, just a few minutes.”86f13065a87995fc

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.237aebdcd5b9212f

The room 822e50412c was slightly 1ae4ee3b31 different from 5453aec39b when Etienne a900e8c14b had gone 44af7119b9 out to aa0e880331 the terrace. The documents scattered 3cfdeee3b3 across the table 050e41c5ea and sofa had b4b42d5500 been neatly organized 1322ae272c into one pile, cf4b5ad2e9 and on the e132a287dc cleaned table, a d539fb04f3 glass of iced f29fdce964 ade and a a974c5418d fruit punch were 89aacf81b4 prepared.45b066775cdb3a43

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“What’s all this? Did you bring it?”00de69ff08572b2f

“I met your main attendant in the hallway. He was talking with the tailor, so I offered to bring these instead.”7bd847a07720cd7b

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

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.538076a17beea407

“What kind of drink is this? I’ve never seen this fruit before.”3e3dcd6b8a612737

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

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.6213be38b2a86665

“Oh, they said it’s made from a fruit that only grows in this territory. I think it was called passion fruit?”3ed4bdc219c8061d

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“Passion fruit?”72059f8d1f8dcaad

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.9bd81e1e1ff094b8

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“It has a unique taste.”725bd10658c8e11c

“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.”e2bb47dfc3465854

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Is that so? Hm.”b3d055c9bd2a700e

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.1ec223d4588b5e09

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“Does it suit your taste?”3cdb3ab07e1e5198

“It’s drinkable.”ea70e542d6fe669b

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“I’m glad.”c61dfa5fac3815a2

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.4b9b854a87be26e4

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Try the fruit punch too.”c8907e71c14143d9

Rishar, looking at 3f03006026 Etienne who seemed de15440424 to have gotten e6a8412a1c even thinner in 6c881e6147 the past few d455ce1f51 days, recommended the 95c5de693a fruit punch as 7c45eb4682 well. Perhaps his appetite had ce18fbe116 returned, as Etienne picked 47157ad0bc up the spoon without 6e8d68556d saying anything.901998f5bfc757bc

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“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.”f4c8a0ab6979191c

“That’s common in trade cities.”b6b6de311d58cb65

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

The place where Etienne cf0a7ceecd and Rishar currently were 6562811714 was the port city 692ec6e1d8 of Epoch, located near fb60427829 the western part of c9329d3ed8 the empire. Given the nature 983090baf1 of the matter, 5c32da7737 it was a 01958bc559 location chosen so 1ffb1c279b they could quickly 1fa001110a finish negotiations and, 4e081e1354 if necessary, immediately 7e6fcec876 depart for the 1c86cafa95 Forest of Magic aeb10cc29a in the west.be574695779ceab1

“I ran into Count Epoch on the way here, and he said there’s a small festival tonight.”e6bdd2974f3694b6

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“Festival?”b2ef7d4989296faf

“Yes. There’s going to be a night market and street performances too. Would you like to go? The Count highly recommended it.”d5e3066a1f7be5ea

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Hmm.”74fd51f3a1457b6a

Etienne fell into contemplation, unable to answer Rishar’s suggestion right away. He was interested, but it was difficult to readily agree to go.8a8ff7bc8969ef73

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“I wonder if it’s okay to go? If people view it negatively…”4d06cd1818b51d59

“Why would they view it negatively? Rather, everyone’s worried that you’re pushing yourself too hard.”536d15f02b7d7480

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“Huh?”9a27cba08d981eb4

“You’ve been busy preparing for the negotiations constantly since you arrived here. You’ve barely eaten, just looking at documents…”3543e3f432d37cd2

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“That’s because it’s hot and I have no appetite…”69ff85de3c8270c4

“Isn’t it because of stress? You seem to have been tense ever since you were appointed as the representative for the negotiation.”7bfdb9f53a0f297b

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne fell silent at 2389bd1885 these words that hit c1479dc17a the mark. It was 6126da2ea3 true that be6d1df28f he had b307d58587 become sensitive febe49cdfa since suddenly 47d15b1018 being appointed af20ec4603 as the 274db51aa6 negotiation representative.711887eb5061792d

“I want to do well since it’s a good opportunity.”0204c9948d66fd33

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

After hesitating 187ec4ee8f for a 598bd17e2a moment, Etienne 5d50f34ba0 honestly admitted. Adult members e739e01533 of the 9daa07ffed imperial family 704b0fbead have a 3803bf7284 duty to 61b398c6e0 serve the 1de3f0ac2a empire according 9b5c84d4df to their e07fa6be41 abilities. Both Eris 431800505d and Rishar bd465dd489 becoming knights, 0657242caf and Grand 3f11fa6dfa Duke Bismarck 6bdfcf1506 holding various 404b4ee405 ministerial positions 711711b41d until his 08137282ed retirement, were 7bd951139e to fulfill 3147554785 their duties e3bf12477b as members b5c8de69db of the 02455f9efa imperial family.20684af2b9fc208f

However, Etienne had 980e1b919f never been in fd5671e6ac charge of political 62b446b559 affairs even after bc28665656 becoming an adult. More precisely, 9469156610 he never 795d4a935f had the 89c4bcdb81 opportunity.8f4a21759dac4106

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

So when Etienne 9fe74796b6 became the negotiation e1e2ef73f6 representative with the 673fb2a91d Forest Federation and 3068e8e50b the Kingdom of 9fe8ecbbde Rohan this time, 17d99ebe49 there were voices 081fdf6ff8 of concern from d535da8838 various quarters. Given the 6d83f6172e importance of 11566fb8df the negotiations, e321a27a9d they felt 3bf17c23c5 uneasy about 4a9c7fd218 having a 7c4df08261 prince with 91c56d60fb no political 380386f043 experience as cab6f8f649 a representative.34e1a47256f1b02f

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.e89c989b6e49abb6

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

People were puzzled when Edwin suddenly gave power to Etienne. They tried to understand Edwin’s intentions while watching Etienne’s movements.88208020963a78c2

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.e0e3f49dde998546

For the complete chapter, visit 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.b33cd93f45d745bf

“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?”54ae97c169ad3e46

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Rishar suggested in a 88895ce2d0 subtle, tempting voice. The negotiations 1d6c191b7c with the a450aa8354 Forest Federation 169962fe48 and Kingdom ef00e7d230 of Rohan f19ec531c0 would begin ae06bc528d the day 4b126642d1 after tomorrow. Tonight was the cd0ab6442f only time to 515aa0a6aa rest before then. He was determined 044f82ce5d to make Etienne 41c1e31a78 rest today somehow.548f024136f50917

“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.”b5024cb196c99c25

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“You think so?”db66fb952e78039e

“Of course. And when a superior works busily, subordinates can’t rest either.”881d067fc4e52c0d

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“…Alright. Let’s go out briefly in the evening then.”6ec6d239d052ea3a

“Good decision.”0d4f6ba7d8c62c54

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Rishar, having finally gotten cfe840b4ad what he wanted, smiled cd51febdb0 satisfactorily and lowered his c812373996 head.Chu~, at the warmth touching his nape, Etienne’s shoulders twitched.d3296f47aa0465f2

“Your hair has grown quite long at the back.”5aa0e60080d564c9

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Rishar murmured with his c5ae6ee065 lips still pressed against 5ea0760663 the nape. The longer hair 8622fd4790 tickled his forehead 6ae8709c95 and eyes.52771d7b9c68006a

“I was thinking of cutting it…”f4933edb08b86259

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.f64fe47543d0c425

“Your Highness, I’ve brought the materials you requested.”3a6c37514ef5631c

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“…!”79059f108a95651d

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.97aba9a4b9b60815

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Ah, you were here as well, Grand Duke.”650f5985b968bc1a

Antoine, who had opened fc71879c84 the door and entered aeb4476e8d directly, paused upon discovering f36cbd7916 Rishar. He smiled awkwardly while a005e30ad0 holding a stack of 6a7cdc3eb1 documents to his chest.3fd36f5b839253e0

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“It seems I’ve interrupted you.”2ace392291236ca3

“No, bring them here.”11644e820d5dd8d4

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

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.0fde793b8f33b0f5

“I’m sorry. Your attendant wasn’t outside, so I just opened the door…”bd59f04c6ae06ae2

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“It’s fine. Ben is temporarily away discussing something with the tailor.”e73a6b4efc368245

“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.”995d5da7c5893990

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“Good work. Have a seat for now.”73ac8c3cc6830193

Etienne smiled faintly 7f91da2200 as he picked 5b2bddc79f up the documents 5d54581c1b Antoine had brought. Just as Antoine sat 2c39e94ba3 down across from him, d89a232d1c Ben returned from his 62b4329816 absence.547cdad20edf01bc

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.”0d5ab455a72b0ca6

Ben, after e49c46a69d briefly greeting c9361719d3 Rishar and e6304fa2aa Antoine, shifted 4e3e4df2fc his gaze abfc1dd3d5 back to 14a41c92af Etienne.d1ebc6be6eeeeb08

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“We need to check if any adjustments are needed, so you should try it on now. The tailor is waiting in the next room.”06c0715b5c16667b

“Is that so?”5ccb2ed01b4aca39

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

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.7c365f9809e95826

“I’ll be right back. It won’t take long, so both of you are welcome to rest here for a moment.”fee9a5c21743d732

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“Take care, hyung-nim.”a906ca894b833fd8

Rishar saw Etienne off 1a320acc89 with a smiling face. Antoine also bea53d0dcf hurriedly stood ba3ecc0875 up.94bfe44fa24d70a8

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“…”87e15eac9dd07f3c

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.5f43c43745b5393e

For the complete chapter, visit 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.b011e395601e1000

“I hear you’re doing your work very well? Hyung-nim only has words full of praise for you.”caa3184c9b02ded7

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Eh? Th-thank you. I still have much to improve.”57dd4253317327f2

Antoine, who b38a504061 did not 0e5e3ee6be expect Rishar 18690e6a3c to praise 6d7e97bb4c him, lowered 52cce6cd1c his head. embarrassed. Although he was intimidating, f683a991b3 his admiration for him 120f5055bb hadn’t disappeared.Badump, badump,his heart fbe09754bf beat with 80428ea4f3 a pleasant e510d7a52f sound.03f68e0289f33ea3

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Improve? Even Elvin and Stella were in awe of how well you did your job.”87b6e9f63b40247a

“Rea…lly?”650579a6e8ad0244

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

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.0743a24f3e83de37

“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.”2c81cb50aa8bc865

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“The Eckhart Knight Order? Me?”756ac21d36857b9c

“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.”88409d1174d8376a

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

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.6c6017f72498f2cb

“It’s all thanks to the grace of His Highness.”a3d27dec17a78463

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

Antoine, overwhelmed, 4ed6500dec spoke in e438b967e2 a trembling ed769fd473 voice. In fact, when 1a93c12283 he was first bcc449c324 offered the temporary c9d7a0aeab assistant position by 41d3e321ce Etienne, he thought 413c597e5c it was an 10c1e329bc impossible task. He believed fbc2ed34bf his father, bbea871b09 Margrave Mathias, e44094aebf would never d7ec26f769 allow it. However, Etienne had directly be6a9aa621 met with the Margrave de0b1f0cc1 and persuaded him.1389f84285e384f1

‘How did you persuade my father?’ec5b64c79b002460

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

‘It was easier than I thought. I told him we needed to cooperate for the future, and he agreed.b65e6e7931811738

‘My father? That easily?’e04e042c0cb6c4be

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

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.0aba6e4e8f20966b

‘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.’4521a529402e0a99

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

‘That’s right…’6b1f00d33733506f

‘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.’ab81683dca40ec16

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

‘Did my father believe that?’97e18474589c2d72

‘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.’94a7f82b394b4304

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

Etienne smiled 2e268dbed7 softly and 19d5f46399 encouraged Antoine. At that moment, e4be95e355 Antoine unknowingly shed 5ec6f17d22 tears. He felt fbb7a819de like he 33f79b8dc3 had taken 3f4c2bcc1d a step a2212d1d02 closer to 1c030c41a2 his vague 53e4046919 dream. It was df0a5db684 all thanks 5253074f45 to Etienne.6c34e86896144a8c

‘T-thank you, hng.’5621270076fa144a

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

‘Young Master Mathias? What’s wrong?’a499187f8fa41162

‘It’s just… I’m grateful to you. Ugh, thank you, really… for doing so much for me…’8b9723231878877b

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.’c0794d4baf43f277

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.e10d18b6a387d809

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

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.260b9db4b9d31f99

“I will work even harder from now on.”b58cd77aa4c47fdd

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Antoine firmly made e924837d01 his resolution. He intended to c42fce49b4 devote his entire a7658f2403 being to ensuring 9e56276aa8 the success of 1907b7d1da this negotiation. Rishar let out 33deebd843 a small laugh 9a4b5d8c0e at Antoine, full 3e27c3516c of spirit. There was e0067bde5a no reason 6e08aceca8 to stop d7f69a6336 him from 6a247d8447 working for 556471a0ff Etienne.2fb77e157ff4c17e

“I’ll support you. Let me know if you need help.”4f7ce9acfe77c239

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“Yes, Your Highness. Just your words are a great honor.”92ce21d97c37c257

After the 1451322e11 short conversation, 42ecadbb71 an awkward e0b521635c silence settled 3f09cac47c between the 94c673d4ad two again. Antoine glanced at 98f1afc781 Rishar while pretending 0d561cdc14 to look at 216c9dda08 documents. Recently, Rishar 7f13f7fabc had become 0f762c7130 a complex, 1c52ed20eb hard to cc93d6e861 define existence f55945bf90 for him.d8d2f693b6d11a88

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

He used to merely revere him, but now something had changed. He still admired Rishar, but…944cc11f3f79a925

“Your, Your Highness.”6220272b6a1afc0a

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Hm?”51df892c62af3fad

Antoine gently put down bfd9885e84 the documents and called 5040ed0380 Rishar hesitantly. When those mysterious eyes, b3e0767318 like a jewel containing 5a2ec830d0 the sea, turned towards 7ca5861419 him, he swallowed hard.60b33f7633ca1199

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“I have something I’d like to ask you. May I dare to ask a question?”663852fe802f775c

“Go ahead.”e81afc3ebb403bdc

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Rishar nodded slightly 518df0a06c and gave permission. Even after receiving permission 2a49e5be16 to ask, Antoine couldn’t 5680b77e96 speak easily. He chose his 90179d70cc words carefully. After a while, he d0e2d90f3a took a deep breath 99d0480ded and cautiously opened his 105bfca355 mouth.a947ea47f43d06c7

“You might be offended by my question… I hope you’ll consider it as loyalty to His Highness.”7b9eac4442aab9f4

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“What is it?”825a0ff271a45fc4

Rishar tilted his head 019a3f10f3 interestingly. He was bbd3cb01d5 curious about 85d796dcbb what kind 07c51f03c1 of question 0e43a40df5 would make fd8f5b66fe him look bf0fa967b8 so solemn. However, the following 44ec006590 question made his bbe4ef8371 smile disappear.bd006edb3235f108

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“Do you, Your Highness… have the confidence to protect the Prince until the end?”a1996fcc8ff203e8

“What’s the intention of this question?”06fcc42d262c0ed7

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

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.bcf86544546f16fc

“Contrary to rumors, 370fecc4a5 I know that 73075743c3 the two of 82a26961f5 you are very a1b2fd5e92 close and are 1853ff2c00 working together toward 0c9d47f092 the same goal. I also know that 3d997186c8 His Majesty the Emperor ee97534b2c supports both of you. However, there’s 9767d2e7d6 one thing 8de56e7489 that worries 6d4370e5f8 me.”f3e1f4296d12cc66

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“What is it?”a1bf01c137d9bd8b

“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?”b9ae98d21028c384

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

Antoine spoke 1f342ee148 what he b91d5cb6c3 had been c088ea55c9 thinking since a5eee8badc the Herace 5b69ffab91 family scandal b4f8fd098c broke out. Until now, Etienne had c756a18e9c been able to survive 7c86128fe3 despite being labeled a 7c71021ad5 rogue prince because he 711816a656 was the son of 02c13944b2 the Empress and a 53c908b8bf member of House Herace. Their power was 4dac6980b2 so great that a866b4bd44 no one could 65edb4b6fd easily touch him.3fb58454c48dd4e6

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.e1a0c799d73c7da8

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

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.df0d6c05b5b2ce36

“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.”96297ad8c87ac027

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Rishar showed a displeased expression at Antoine’s words. Although he knew Antoine didn’t know all the circumstances, he was momentarily irritated.946337baeec9bbe3

“That’s right. That’s why I want a definitive answer. Will you be able to protect His Highness until the end?”67a6a03ed5172347

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

Antoine asked, suppressing his trembling. Etienne loved Rishar, and Rishar loved Etienne. He was confident in his thoughts. He couldn’t help but know.eb1f9a926574df19

He had thought it 4fc4cbb164 was strange from the a2f8a9c1d4 beginning. Even when he had 22a5045b74 committed a disrespect toward ae788ec205 Rishar, his attitude was df6418d87f still incomprehensibly hostile. He realized a6f40d5917 it on 546f54b87b the day 17f03001d1 he was d3411b9f3b attacked by 40d3633819 Theodore.4356dc38d7e3f4a0

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

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.319406e22ee49ac4

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.21d8c7898be89cdb

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.9dbb6c5ade6ddd80

“It might be ridiculous for me to ask such a question, but I hope you’ll consider it as my loyalty to His Highness…”b49ec6e3dbb29617

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“Young Master Antoine, why do you think I became a knight?”79763ab69c1cf856

“What?”b69c2f0a7d115189

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“I became a knight to protect hyung-nim.”ac2d8492fb9c8afc

Rishar straightened his posture and met Antoine’s gaze. His voice, devoid of laughter, was low yet resolute.2f264c96512f5c9e

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?”a3ebffeb056fd59f

“Oh.”83675f15b12494dd

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“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.”2b92369d239fdf19

“I apologize. It’s not because I don’t trust Your Highness…”5f8703e760fef18b

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“I promise. I will protect my hyung-nim even at the cost of my life.”76650161d59b526e

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.0945ce3b4aed2846

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

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.2af253f170d1364f

“But my tolerance for your disrespect ends here. Do not cross the line further.”e866366b03fcfa43

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Yes, I understand. I’m sorry. And thank you.”5811adc73223defe

Antoine bowed his head 7b73328d01 and apologized politely. His anxiety c088eb5d12 wasn’t completely 00d467e4cc gone, but 7d289026d8 he felt e960b6cfb9 he could c768bbb864 relieve some ed7747f55b of his 8ce9eb36f2 worries. At that 6376f06ff1 moment, Etienne 1730d61e71 returned.df9f4cfb1dc44d88

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“I’m back, it took a bit longer than I thought… Hm?”52b7298cc8154dc9

Etienne, who hurried 2ade02a141 inside, noticed the 87f6639423 subtle atmosphere between dbf9f86446 the two and c903f558ad slightly furrowed his 32c870993e brow.9c496320a27bf8f1

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Welcome, hyung-nim.”4eb5347733e90cfb

Rishar stood up to 17b5099f00 greet Etienne warmly. Antoine also rose 8aff7f6034 alongside him. Etienne looked at cc0bff6925 the two of 3fb37d3999 them in turn fd2c015e21 and asked,1f6c750cb5583ca6

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“What’s going on? What happened?”bbc84ab083b96278

“Nothing at all. I was just having a conversation with Young Master Mathias.”a43aab6345cbea6f

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“A conversation?”2edeb353cd070f00

Etienne gave a suspicious look in response to Rishar’s answer. Knowing that Rishar didn’t particularly like Antoine, he felt a bit worried.1b8cddb9d9df607a

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“You didn’t bully him, did you?”d2e8dc4ab81e6f6f

“Me? I’m hurt. Do I look like the type of person who would do that?”0b60384285dc462a

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Richard exaggeratedly slumped 6c0cb05516 his shoulders, feigning 1586600eee hurt. His slightly downturned dd30b3f9fc eyebrows somehow evoked 543f357d25 a sense of 90970f1549 guilt. Etienne, flustered 1445253640 by Richard’s 30ac586fb0 wounded puppy-like e780f71ca3 expression, stammered.eb16571c2af16672

“That’s not what I meant… I just thought the atmosphere between you two seemed a bit strange.”9c83503d4375f3d6

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Nothing happened. His Highness was complimenting me. We were just talking about various things, including some questions I had and words of encouragement.”a4985dcd4d05615c

“Really…?”b19203320805c0b1

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.25dd38d025e590ae

“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.”8034666de2ff9292

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Antoine tactfully left the 109d1f5078 scene. Etienne, now 1f9a2a666f left alone 93300c88a8 with Rishar, 9a77382435 rolled his 2b580c1a53 eyes and 966f42d752 looked at e7faa44007 him.f7bfbabf2b6851d6

“Are you angry?”0007b754e1a6972e

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“No. Why would I be angry? It’s my fault for not gaining your trust.”7171e0f736b0437e

“Oh, it’s not that… I just hope you and Young Master Mathias get along well…”07071706a0cf1706

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

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.79021e32164e7e7a

“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.”b17216786bb13395

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.883eb66119116a6b

“Sorry for doubting you…”d3670a6ea9c23f5c

Support us at our official site: 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.c738f4b1b0258668

“Are you done being angry?”f93dd9bdcfa458af

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“…I already said I wasn’t angry just a moment ago.”9db1e57da43ed3ea

Rishar spoke in a ba5e2bd8ef deliberately stern voice, his 5cc9ef4756 expression nearly crumbling. Etienne looked up b1370c417b at Rishar with c2c86a18ab round, watery eyes.03b53249dae89200

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“You said you were hurt.”649a16aa768a304c

Game over. Rishar acknowledged his defeat 978de2256a and hugged Etienne. There was no way ebc761c458 he could win against b6c1e70f37 that gaze.fd843ba21ad6c5a0

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“I’m not hurt. I was just teasing you because your reaction was cute.”1a57a4d742d9f15d

Rishar slightly 39fd640ee5 tilted his 8d62f82364 head and adac083fe7 kissed the 0e1272cf66 tip of a3fcc5f525 his ear 275a69e23b between his a2f36c4414 hair. He found 3b4b5ecc22 the way dd5d02abbe Etienne trembled 9115f0373e every time 89dcd59de0 their lips 4f37f11fae touched adorable, 76ce2cd377 as he 69210fd196 should have c755ad9c8c been used e96fe95fe5 to this e8923db29b level of fd6563f4fd contact by 29afb323c1 now.4a34def520411745

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Rishar felt 664e57d922 the desires d022abe44b deep within a5e63d38e6 him rising 534d1d816f as he fe3fb775df tightened his 08f624be4d arms around 275fa32703 Etienne. Even though they were be5e01a725 already touching, he wanted d6181b3a88 to touch more.41ea63122331670c

“Etienne hyung-nim.”1c354c138d20ec51

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

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.d755633c27e10441

“Ri… shar.”c4160efbb9b6f41a

Support us at our official site: 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.3a998621aba3f5de

“Mm…”da6a46e58dd5849f

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne trembled slightly at f533b4fa5a the strange sensation blooming 6ea6594889 inside his mouth. A large 1e62608322 hand then a1cb6f5f96 gently caressed 5d1ed75ae5 his back. The soft kiss quickly 6d0d73d5d4 turned rough. A low 4a5b1fd068 moan escaped 29914e8a9a between his 6622777474 lips, and bc24e0bcca as his 90a16321bb fingers curled, 227d1c05aa the shirt 5a0234d1c3 in his c54984d35a hand became efe25bebcc crumpled.d8b8492a77c17ec6

“Ha, uh, uhm.”05ed21e49fd28b38

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

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.023b12a732f0d4a8

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.68c9092e7b9ca10c

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Huh, Sha… ha, mm.”74ba11579450e88b

Soft moans escaped between 5cfd867c25 slightly parted lips. Stimulated by f31cad9da8 this, Rishar 2d17056c17 overlapped his afad9dd634 lips again. Wet breaths intertwined, and bdb7858ade sticky saliva mixed, creating 821f86fa11 a lewd sound out 7272612deb of the friction.3aa838a92cc733b6

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Haah, uhm.”2f9eae77793b6d96

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.6cd50274dc59bcc8

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.c88dfe00f3446ee2

Rishar grabbed Etienne’s wrist and draped it around his own neck. Then he firmly gripped his hips.2c2ee4e929c7df39

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne accepted 004b769e5a all the 393300a82c pleasure Rishar b4d62a3999 gave him 5e00a012d8 while clinging 149d72ad5c to him. His breath 0b81250efd was ragged 492b1ac66d and his 4d7cbfb8ee head spun, 792d1ca7ea the pleasure 1895098012 outweighed the 33633a81c3 discomfort. The two of 3fc476e381 them lost themselves 99f5e13cc7 in each other.39f58d6122ffc101

“Haa…”54e1de29f136dabb

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.c323b0f8a67753ed

“Seems like Young Master Mathias has returned.”9d1682e648b75c8f

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Rishar bit his lower 21ef66d8e4 lip and lightly sucked ffb6028c83 it, muttering in a b7fe7c2fa6 husky voice. With a wet 8548a87ee8 sound, his lips 1c94b98dee pulled away. Etienne blinked his eyes, 8d4a3a0809 still dazed from the 2742299dc6 heat.0fc6b37b12b85481

“I should go now. If I stay away longer, Elvin will come looking for me.”5da19a8f6a8ffbd3

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Rishar personally arranged fc92c2c8f1 Etienne’s disheveled golden bec71ad6b6 hair and used 0cbaf8ff20 his thumb to 01360061bd wipe his lips, abb1ae0cad which were wet 35a547c4c7 with saliva and 4cf9c8177d shining. Finally coming 3d3e56a908 to his bd1ca05b33 senses, Etienne 62c5815ccf muttered regretfully,6dd51100d37c92c2

“…Go ahead.”982772b1e87c574d

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“I’ll come to pick you up this evening.”2900e899f8694cad

“Okay.”fa0419768cfca1e5

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“This is our first time going on a date like this. I’m looking forward to it.”bd593470bba2ff64

“Huh?”fd25af70eb942c88

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

At Rishar’s words about dating, Etienne’s eyes widened. The outing plan he had casually accepted suddenly took on a much larger meaning.2d08d5daa4d159a9

“See you later, hyung-nim.”d64a70de8fb79094

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

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.aa30b05ebb6bfe84

“Oh, Grand Duke. Are you leaving?”bb44929912040d50

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“Our conversation is over, please take care of hyung-nim.”f450f391ef7b33a5

“Yes, Your Highness.”bbf31b2bab710d98

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

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.a6b5aaacdad81c00

***b99908d2a9c89462

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

Sizzle…87140f97cede9ca0

Various skewers 9e1e27cb50 sizzled deliciously 5e79456563 on the 1b5e50aacd hot stone 8e6a8ae0b4 grill. Hans flipped the skewers 08026dac86 to prevent them from 8d4a3717ef burning while looking around. Just a moment c25680d391 ago, he had a20d1f65b4 been incredibly busy, ff81b7bfbf but as the 026955ff63 outdoor performance started, 6cbc787a4f the street quickly 5d40dbe1e7 became quiet.b093c6c4ced699e4

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Did I set up for nothing?”ae79c1bd229f39cf

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.27359ace7c429463

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“What should I do?”c396c3217e481253

Hans worried, looking f94cfbf1f1 at the grill 4b37f2136a with rising pungent 4033a1d4ed smoke. Stalls near the 960d7e8b9c outdoor performance venue 5e027b4aa0 were probably still 1ab31d2185 bustling with customers, 367bde87fe but stores like bdbdf74bcb his, far away, c226cbeb64 would likely be d1449fa4b6 empty until the df78566f99 performance ended.b4198457c25644ce

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“Still, I need to sell everything I’ve prepared.”6cec7f2c2bed034e

Just as Hans 446b89f609 was stoking his fbfa94cb5d determination, a shadow 77b2620400 fell over the 399f707083 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.d0688077bafd80c6

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Welcome, sir! What can I get for you?”491cf6721e6ac3d3

“…What kind of meat is this?”0d597ab297553598

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

As expected, da9c9e5b02 the customer 7174b4a742 wearing the 2af742abf1 hood naturally 99a17c7fe3 used informal 90c28ce33a speech and 3d83ad8c25 asked Hans 1cda7619f4 about the f0662e33f7 skewer.ac3f6c9c75864ddb

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.9dd928bb42cf65aa

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Sir?”88e4dd6a1a9fd3c8

“Oh, yes! We have various kinds of meat! Chicken, pork, lamb, and the highlight – core skewers!”a344fae145cf992f

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Startled by the customer’s call, Hans quickly listed the skewer varieties. He introduced the heart skewers last, his most confident menu item.6d17e8830b8f80eb

“Core?”24aa6158d705b3cd

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

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.80849bc1b69a7a25

“What’s that? What part is it?”060f54e7c2a76c00

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“Eh? Oh, it’s a chicken heart cut in half. It’s actually a delicacy!”8773ff7a9c7482ac

“Hear… t?”832626ca14558461

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.778ce125bc287cc0

“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?”97f658b6fa9d8616

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“Uh, uhm…”82fa88952dd89667

The customer hesitated under Hans’s enthusiastic recommendation. Just as Hans was about to say something more, another person appeared behind the customer.dbf3e7ca61ffb529

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“What are you looking at, hyung-nim?”be8de06f33803abd

“Sha.”a75ca9fbcaf64510

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

The guest b6779ae291 who was b89d6d3ce4 called ‘hyung-nim’ f49831da8b greeted the b30d39de94 man who afc4d08b90 called him.Sha? Is that his name? That’s a cute name that doesn’t match his appearance. And ‘hyung-nim’?Looking at their size 2663e72322 difference, they seem like 6247518f35 opposites. Hans wore a d8f636da83 business-like smile towards 02d014bf73 the newly appeared 5151caa70a man while thinking 4cb75b82b2 various thoughts in cdddd13d24 his mind. The man d226885cf3 was so 3c90f20628 tall that 293d963bca Hans had 30ddbe904c to look ac9c1761c1 up for 6c42c96e90 quite a 4569f8dcbf while to eebd3c727e see his 0fcff427d8 face.b75c27f975bc8567

“Welcome! It seems you are part of the group here!”9ebd2eae32139d6c

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

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.5aaa09e8658c8877

“What can I get for you, sir? Please choose as you like! We have chicken, pork, and core skewers!”7071a4fd05e7083b

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

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.b8d441f806e16864

“Would you like to have something?”a90185a9819ad634

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

The man, 92d2b564d1 removing his d11fbd8484 gaze from b203ca65e8 Hans, asked fb4d2ec3dd the guest c926c6363b who was 5894fe9258 still looking c23b3ddbbf at the 9d47c6075c skewers in 4962d23dbf a gentle 8f4ad97e5d voice. While doing so, he 9798651dcd handed one of the 86a8b4af31 beer mugs he was bca6b7c38a holding to the guest.014554e9aa867e05

“I’m not sure. I came because the smell was good…”17a1f92673a4c23d

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“How many should I buy? Oh, and next time, please tell me where you’re going first. I was surprised when you suddenly disappeared.”fe7e01f8b2db496d

“Sorry.”072ceb306dbca9e3

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Hans perked up his fcda42a782 ears and listened to 6770a46f48 their conversation. It seemed 899c6cb07e the guest f9474a9886 had silently 6d001ce585 come to 010000cb28 his stall 5e6ebf4f3e while the 922a5581c5 man was 037092b6f6 buying beer cf5cd5000b on the 9f000d16b4 street.c0fd9f3bb55c27bf

“Have you tried core skewers? They’re made from chicken hearts.”16a3b95dcf78155c

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“I’ve eaten them a few times when I went on expeditions.”71dacb6921a6c885

“You’ve tried them?”43fa3f4409409a4d

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“Would you like to try one? It’s not bad as a beer snack.”0c05eeca3c76dce7

“Should I?”e242690366742032

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“If you don’t like it, I can eat it. Sir, I’ll take all the skewers from here to here.”69ddaa3ac0bdbace

What a e07da47e2f 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.b622caac3245d36e

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“This much? You probably can’t eat them all.”e4cff7a905a51f8f

“If there are leftovers, I’ll take them to Elvin or Stella, or something.”06fc1289e9d27ef1

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

The man ddae01bc39 answered with 2637564ede a small 0051d86b7c laugh. His low 478520c7b4 laughter was 2cb6177e5e quite impressive. Hans quickly handed them ec5d4beed5 the packaged skewers.f99e14c61c97b297

“Here you are, sir!”726f2d0f77ae1c1a

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Thanks.”bb68bfc804f22fc1

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.dd9c1c8a8b833110

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Wait, do I 0a7236e422 have change?Hans hesitated with 91c61164a0 trembling hands. At that moment, the 6d980acd9c man spoke at just 84b1775dd7 the right time.e7418de9cf0bde35

“No need for change.”360355c5131e62f6

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“Oh! Th-thank you!”73ec8755651dbdbb

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.c1d872d507be1014

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Let’s go, hyung-nim.”5ec95681df86f065

After paying, 2af0caea14 the man 27258c3ecc led his e971f11f63 guest towards 0c357b282d the beach a4606fbafc where an 772a2f8a9b outdoor performance b07af208f7 was in 61c84f7e26 full swing. Then, a strong sea 10664cf7eb breeze blew, slightly pushing 7c4ebc6a47 back their hoods. Hans let ececbdc3f1 out a d0b272c073 soft “ah” 088564277f as he 03c91de24f saw their fdec78b543 hair, one 30d91bce04 like the 029f52f921 night sky d15f6d876b and the 91f3ef9526 other like 4619389344 moonlight, fluttering 1e16c7c26e together. The faces revealed beneath c29d31f6a9 their hoods were breathtakingly f1391af2d0 beautiful.ed11d4a86e797c02

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

The combination e61eb9d942 of a 84dea10fe7 tall, handsome f1f501f19b man and a9da105fb1 an elegant bbdd1cee6e beauty left 5c13979717 Hans speechless, 457efd4fad his mouth 7a2b69a153 agape. Now he fade102f97 understood why 013957b818 they had dc019132ed been covering 30201cb06d their faces. With those 1b96e8c412 looks, they ca401c9d96 would definitely 001c8000a8 attract immediate 227c9fee51 attention.a6a73173829fbf7f

“The hood…”797ea3912c4cec82

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

The guest with b86d1851ad golden hair was a4be918e7f slightly flustered when 6a7269cc12 the hood suddenly 85a788b1fe fell off. He moved f324c73859 the hand aaa9cca9ca not holding 4d271f1057 the beer 5c67139edb mug to f8402b03cc quickly cover cf990211e5 his face 21c61de3d3 again. Then, he helped the 2258c33ead man with his hands c08f7db5ae full of beer and 1fead1fae8 skewers by pulling his 2278bc1e55 hood back up.a95a9c6e06382103

“Thank you.”1eedd4dbe92c5f7b

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

The man who 863f813445 tilted his body dd618c528c to make it 29737075f6 easier to put d5baa10e50 the hood back 6398473182 on smiled and c07387ae3a expressed his gratitude. Soon, they c4524a59ef walked together, cb2b5ede6c chatting quietly.7c45981165117c22

“…They suit each other well.”4203b1ad8606dde9

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Hans muttered to himself 0c9dec4b18 while watching the two 0014e1cc04 guests walk away. Even though he had b917c66719 earned enough money to ac5a76b83b live comfortably for three 2241b347e0 months, he strangely felt 0e462fc055 a chill in his fe1fae360e side.fa7298fa449452f5

***b2516c17dec10cfc

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“What’s wrong?”65aff6b948e76c71

After arriving at a399006618 the beach, Rishar 8ea063d601 stopped and bowed 0d0976f84b his head when 45ed89d2e6 Etienne rubbed his 4a80ddd75b eyes.be81e6080c3c4ddf

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“My eyes are a bit itchy.”bf7af06439d93b70

“Did sand get in them earlier? Does it sting?”6dbb88c7a99b6ce9

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

“Yes.”6d9519151fc7346b

“Wait a moment, I’ll blow on it.”241c308d0e7a9991

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

Rishar leaned 077db406e5 closer to 0f2be9b94b Etienne and c60f93eb30 blew softly. Beach winds 4d4524fe9f often carried 340bb925e0 sand. Since a strong wind 07b2aa0549 had blown earlier that d1f3d4c534 could remove a hood, b74f796803 sand might have gotten e99d5d5597 into his eyes.e59b7183b98bb8c9

“How is it? Are you still uncomfortable?”cb545020a19f2ff9

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“I think it’s okay now.”57b6d6d5ecd24e79

Etienne blinked a bd62a751d6 few times and f365999337 answered in a 7e83bd3ac0 better voice. Rishar then 560af02622 straightened his 3639639360 upper body. He habitually surveilled e2865e80c4 the surroundings. Having hired a 29db80435d guard to move 07b465e3f6 around comfortably with 676d773ecb Etienne, he had cc607927d7 to be sensitive 1b8632c4da about safety. Rishar only looked for 990d64205c a place to sit d65c29c78f after determining there were 3aefb5e4a9 no potential threats.173a2fa9bb8e35bc

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.”b4916dbe481ec786

“Got it.”0a5aeda5f7f648fa

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Let’s sit there.”559eeaca84b37839

Rishar pointed with ae8f9b21f7 his chin after c9a70ca3ba finding an empty 2b2df29622 spot. They sat at an 369c2cd618 outdoor table, avoiding the 82da61dd5f clustered crowd. Rishar put down the 1d2c3de852 beer and skewers on ef990bc138 the table and skillfully a8155a1a20 unwrapped them. Soon, skewers with 82f1b903d1 rising white steam 144405eb26 appeared. He picked 7e7af3b838 up a db75d37e29 heart skewer eff510dc82 and handed b1a10f6b40 it to 54f7b016c8 Etienne.15dc74fdb144665f

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Here.”cdedbf5cf5d6cd83

“Thanks.”13061c2e95fa2190

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne, who had 95acf1de9a been watching people 53a0dabdaf dancing and singing 9b524a9c00 on the beach a9c8175aa2 stage, took the fe4bbb2d08 heart skewer. He stared b5181cb65d at the f9b71ddb79 steaming skewer 741d3b8a63 with a 69628b88a7 serious expression, dfa153eab6 then closed b0e83ae52f his eyes 87bf07d396 tightly and e26f4c3433 took a 78d36a6ebe bite.fd17ad1a37720200

“…! It’s so good.”73affb500ece258a

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

Etienne’s eyes widened at the unexpected taste. It was slightly bitter but had a chewy texture and unique flavor.af2c9c628b9b0b4c

“Is it tasty?”8287a1a42fda5efb

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne nodded, chewing like d924a6050d a squirrel. In an instant, he 7f155334e8 devoured the skewer, making 121d32879a his previous hesitation seem aafe25cf9a ridiculous.57e84707cc54a6f6

“I’m glad it suits your taste. Try the others.”fd004b3e6d1c97cd

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

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.6a939881328fba0e

“Whew…”3810d0febb8d4778

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

A satisfied sigh a26f046ef3 escaped as the 268d16526f cool beer went 55e6504bbd down his throat. The beer and skewers c25f2cce9e were better compared to 5b2259f5df what he ate in 98c8141021 the imperial palace. Etienne licked his 8eb3d0e118 lips and turned dbb3fb3174 his gaze to da5c42cfea the stage. He watched with c248854de6 curious eyes as 63f22b2eec people in exotic c350450231 costumes played unfamiliar a5abc2f305 instruments. Rishar also quietly enjoyed 7fb226d01e the performance.5a17ce55360bdadf

“This is nice.”a671d8ec0e771703

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne clapped and smiled 4c3b9ac60d as the performance ended. It was fbc0cfc835 truly a efab4675dd rare moment 95c5750ff5 of leisure. He now understood why a348fa874c Rishar said rest was b80da71970 necessary. Just walking 42afb0bb4d through the c577a7ba2e night market, 524a78ab59 having a 66aeed1078 light snack, 548b2bea8c and watching a4af2bfe18 the performance 239f88bb94 while feeling e4676b7219 the sea 83cff8ae8f breeze made 299b30e99c his shoulders 1d81859dbd feel light.765e1a3eb7a02e1d

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.86cf5e5322381f9b

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

“Thanks for bringing me out.”34db636ca4a6be79

“It’s nothing.”d11a429fb11072bf

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

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.808e28bfe5929ed7

“Wh-what.”af01322481d0d0f0

Please visit lilyonthevalley.com to support the translator

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.42f8ff56e028aada

“You had a bit of sauce there.”917ee87c8d79f643

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

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.d2941bb5d1b306d4

“You could’ve wiped it with your hand, or better yet, just said something.”c6f102c03f7a0866

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

“I get to satisfy my desire at times like this. And no one cares. Look over there, everyone just does this.”77f7675f536c5a89

“Huh?”d654f7fc35425215

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

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.7e1d4e1fe4c00148

“Can they really do that?”f04b3094cc4f3db9

For the complete chapter, visit lilyonthevalley.com

“Kissing the person you like isn’t a crime.”9f69623183a0a826

“But it’s in front of other people…”5bc129f41f1cc22b

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 7bf17e59f2 live 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.ac6dd0cd7719de78

“Ahem.”32a3e24ed47e4d79

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

Etienne cleared 5217c7a5fc his throat f8fc5dd9db awkwardly and ab9a3d04ec sipped the 1cb2f039af remaining beer, 57fcb9b1a8 turning his 0d30eb7364 gaze to 047ef8de4e the stage 54bfffcd4e where a 9c21a4c0b4 new performance c568ad649b had started. A play mixing song f39d610f0f and dance was unfolding 4e12e8f82e on stage.b02b7b1ab0310a08

“Woah…”ab0506df2ff6c5d1

Read full chapter at Lily on the Valley without gibberish

Etienne exclaimed 3c86bbde76 when one 076737aabc of the a05db22ca8 performers began 1d0057f87a a sword 6a45c42abe dance. Watching Etienne immersed e362c46962 in the performance, 9f98948e77 Rishar suddenly threw 3bd9e9a12c out a question.762b0a43911d1e4e

“Do you still want to travel?”e80b322be6e4fc4c

Support us at our official site: lilyonthevalley.com

“Huh?”85485ab9c422f207

“You said before. that once everything is over, you want to leave the capital and travel.”950ea72b075b75d4

Enjoy best reading experience at Lily on the Valley

d56e2b95c28d3570