Chapter 5: Invited To A Trip

The seasons have changed, and spring has arrived. The greenery is vibrant and glowing.

“Why don’t we go to the lake? Let’s have a date.”

A date! Of course, I’d love to go.

“Yes, I’m looking forward to it.”

The lake Jay-sama invited me to is far from the capital, so we’ll be staying overnight. Marc-san was like, “That sounds nice—I want to go too!” But Jay-sama told him, “I’ll take you somewhere next time, so please give up on this one,” and he reluctantly agreed.

It’s been a while since I last went on an overnight trip, so I’m really excited!

…Oh, but I wonder if Father will allow it? Even though Jay-sama is my fiancé, it’s still an overnight stay.

“Jay-sama?”

“What’s wrong?”

“I’d love to go, but I need to get Father’s permission first…”

Hm? Jay-sama is looking at me with a calm, confident expression.

“Of course, I’ve already gotten permission from Viscount Rosen. So if you want to go, Rubina, let’s enjoy it together.”

“Y-”

I was about to say yes, but…

“Hey, Jay-oji-san, you came to pick up Rubina-onee-chan, right? Why don’t you head back already? Why do you always flirt before leaving?”

“Marc-san! We’re not flirting…”

“Rubina-onee-chan, that’s what people call flirting. Why don’t you just move up the wedding? Get married right after graduation. That way, I can visit Jay-oji-san’s house too.”

Marc-san, really… Getting married right after graduation?

“Moving up the wedding would be easy, but your time with your family is important too, Rubina. Plus, dating during our engagement is what makes it fun. You’ll understand someday, Marc.”

Jay-sama is so kind, always thinking of me and my family, and it makes me love him even more. I listened to Jay-sama and Marc-san’s conversation with a smile.

“I wonder if I’ll ever understand… I can’t even imagine it yet.”

As we prepared to leave, Julianne-sama came to see us off.

“Rubina-onee-chan!”

The only ones who call me Rubina-onee-chan are Marc-san and his younger brother, Arthur-san. Arthur-san is six years old and absolutely adorable.

“Arthur-san, have you finished your studies?”

“Yeah! Rubina-onee-chan, let’s play!”

“Oh… I was just about to head back. Can we play next time?”

I crouched down to meet Arthur-san’s eye level.

“Ehh! You’re leaving already? I’ll miss you. Let’s eat together. My teacher praised my table manners, you know?”

Once you master table manners, you can dine with people outside your family. Making a mistake in manners can make others uncomfortable, so for nobles, manners are of utmost importance. For a marquis family, it must be even stricter.

“Oh, you’ve already been praised? That’s amazing. Your hard work paid off.”

Jay-sama patted Arthur-san’s head.

“Jay-sama, Rubina-san, how about joining us for dinner? I’ll contact Rubina-san’s family.”

I looked at Jay-sama after Julianne-sama’s suggestion.

“What do you think, Rubina?”

“If it’s okay with you, Jay-sama, I’d love to join.”

“Aneue, we’ll take you up on your offer then. Please contact Rubina’s family.”

“Yes. Mother-in-law-sama will be delighted too. There’s some time before dinner, so Arthur, have Rubina-san play with you.”

“Yeah! Rubina-onee-chan, let’s go to the garden!”

“Will you show me the way? Let’s go, Jay-sama.”

Arthur-san held my hand. His small hand is so cute.

“Jay-sama, I’ll need you to come with me. I have something to discuss.”

Hohohoho, Julianne-sama laughed. Jay-sama told me to go ahead, so I took him up on the offer.

“Rubina-onee-chan, this way!”

“Oh my! It’s so beautiful.”

It was a garden full of colorful hyacinths. They looked so luxurious and vibrant!

Noble gardens are often designed to impress guests, and some even host garden parties to show them off. The botanical garden Jay-sama created is open to everyone regardless of status, but I heard they’ll be closing most of it soon, except for a small section.

“I want to visit Jay-oji-san’s botanical garden too. Have you been there a lot, Rubina-onee-chan?”

“Yes, Jay-sama has taken me there many times. The restaurant is highly recommended too.”

“Once Father acknowledges my table manners, I’ll be able to eat out, so let’s go together, Rubina-onee-chan!”

“Yes, definitely.”

After that, we had dinner with the whole family. Arthur-san used his knife and fork so well, and everyone found it heartwarming.

“Arthur, at this rate, you’ve passed. Shall we all go out to eat next time?”

Arthur-san was thrilled when the Marquis said that.

“I promised Rubina-onee-chan I’d go to the restaurant at Jay-oji-san’s botanical garden, so can I go with her?”

W-Wait, Arthur-san? To leave out your family for that is a bit…

“Oh, really? If it’s Jay’s place, I can rest assured. I’ll leave it to you, Rubina-san.”

“If Rubina-onee-chan is going, I’ll go too.”

Even Marc-san?!

“Both of them are so attached to you, Rubina-san. Don’t cause her any trouble, okay? Rubina-san, would that be alright with you?”

I don’t mind going, but is it really okay to leave it to me? I was wondering when Marc-san spoke up.

“Jay-oji-san will probably come too, so you don’t need to worry.”

I looked at Jay-sama, and he nodded.

“If Jay can look after the kids, shall we go on a date as a couple that day?”

The Marquis suggested to Julianne-sama, and she seemed delighted.

“We got used as an excuse, huh. But since Anii-ue has always taken care of me, I’d like your help too, Rubina. Is that okay?”

The marquis family has always taken care of me, so my answer is, of course, gladly. Jay-sama laughed and said that if his promise with Marc-san could be fulfilled at the botanical garden, it’d be perfect.

~Jay’s Perspective~

“Jay-sama, I heard from Marc. It’s great that you and Rubina-san are close, but please refrain from doing that in front of the kids!”

Did Marc say something unnecessary?

“That Marc, always meddling. But it’s the same as usual.”

“You need to tell me about Rubina-san’s dress design soon, or we won’t have time to prepare the jewelry! It’s been decided that the jewelry will come from the marquis family.”

I said I’d prepare everything, but both my family and Rubina’s family wanted to contribute something. Rubina’s family is making the veil, and the jewelry will come from my family. Rubina’s mother said she’d knit the lace for the veil herself, just for Rubina. She asked me to keep it a secret, but hearing this, I know Rubina will be delighted.

Meanwhile, the women in my family… Mother and Aneue called in a jeweler.

“Let’s make it extravagant for the wedding.”

“Definitely diamonds.”

“Then shall we make everything diamond-themed?”

That part was fine. Since my family is handling it, there’s no need to worry about the cost.

“This is amazing, isn’t it?”

“Oh, wow, you’re right! This will definitely stand out. The bride should be the star, after all.”

Let me see… I looked at the actual piece, and it was indeed impressive… but when I held it, it was extremely heavy.

“No way! Wearing something this heavy will give her shoulder pain, make her head feel heavy, and stretch her ears!”

Rubina is supposed to be the star, but the diamonds are too big. She’s so delicate—she doesn’t need such oversized jewelry.

“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime event, so why skimp? Wait… don’t tell me there’ll be a second time—”

“Mother, I’ll get mad if you keep going.”

That’s how the conversation went, and I got upset and left. I later reflected that I might have overreacted, and here we are now.

“Here’s the design sketch.”

If I don’t show the dress design, they’ll go overboard with the extravagance. Rubina should be the main focus.

“Oh my, how cute! It’s so Rubina-san’s style!”

Exactly!

“How many meetings do you think I had with the designer? It’s a one-of-a-kind dress made just for Rubina, down to the finest details!”

“Let’s use the marquis family’s tiara. Everyone who marries into the Hudson marquis family wears it—it’s a symbol of the family.”

“Yes, thank you. Please do.”

That tiara can only be used with the marchioness’s permission. Anii-ue’s wife wore it too. It’s one of the marquis family’s treasures, known to those in the know.

“I’m sorry about the other day. I think of Rubina-san like a little sister, but since I couldn’t participate at all, we got carried away with the jewelry. I promise we’ll prepare the finest pieces to match the dress.”

Aneue was smiling. They’re helping with the wedding preparations, but I was trying to do everything myself. When I asked Rubina what kind of dress she’d like, she shyly said she wanted me to choose.

“Jay-sama knows my taste better than I do, so I think leaving it to you will result in something better.”

She said with a shy smile.

She’s just too adorable! Maybe that’s why I got so carried away… For furniture and such, I’ve prepared a few options that suit Rubina’s taste for her to choose from. The way she looks when she’s deliberating is just too cute!

“You’re having the wedding in spring because you want a garden party, right? It’s the season when those roses are in full bloom.”

Those roses didn’t have a name before. I decided to name them “Rubii-White” for this occasion, using a foreign variation of Rubina’s name.

Rubii or White, the colors are hard to pin down, someone said, but when I explained it as “a white rose named Rubina,” the gardener burst out laughing.

“Yes. I want to prepare the garden, so parts of the botanical garden will be closed for a while. But after the renovation, I’ll make sure visitors will be delighted again, so please keep that a secret.”

I’ve only told her it’ll be a garden party at the botanical garden, but she was thrilled. Rubina really loves the botanical garden.

＊＊＊＊＊＊

Today, I brought Marc-san and Arthur-san to the botanical garden.

“Here, Rubina-onee-chan.”

Marc-san got off the carriage first and offered me his hand.

“Oh my! Thank you.”

Marc-san is such a gentleman. As expected of the marquis family’s heir—he’s so smooth, I was impressed.

“Hey, Marc, that’s my privilege.”

Jay-sama was holding Arthur-san’s hand. Arthur-san is so full of energy, you can’t take your eyes off him.

“Jay-oji-san must be busy looking after Arthur, right?”

Arthur-san looked eager to get inside the botanical garden.

“I’m looking after them, so I’ll do it properly. Arthur, Marc, no wandering off on your own! No running, either. If you don’t behave, you’ll never get to go out with Rubina again.”

“Yes, yes!”

“Let’s go, Rubina-onee-chan!”

Arthur-san, full of excitement, held my hand as we entered the botanical garden. He’s so cute like this, and the botanical garden is always fun no matter how many times I visit.

“Arthur has it good. I want to walk holding hands with Rubina-onee-chan too.”

“You’re already ten, aren’t you?”

“I guess it’s no good, huh.”

“I’d rather Arthur didn’t hold hands either, but if Rubina’s okay with it, I can’t stop her.”

“You’re so petty, Jay-oji-san.”

“How am I petty?”

“That’s exactly how?”

“Jay-sama, Marc-san, we’ll go on ahead!”

“Huh! Wait, Rubina-onee-chan!”

“Marc! Don’t run!”

“I’ll catch up, so go ahead.”

I think Marc-san was about to run, but Jay-sama told him not to, so he stopped. I waved and said there’s no need to rush. After walking a bit, we should’ve reached my favorite rose garden, but it’s currently under renovation and cordoned off.

“Oh? The rose garden is under renovation? That’s a shame.”

The other visitors seemed to accept it and moved on. If this were a paid attraction, there might’ve been complaints, but since it’s not, maybe that’s why there aren’t any. Besides, there are still plenty of other things to see.

“Arthur-san, shall we go see the tulips?”

“Yeah!”

“We’ve walked a lot—aren’t you tired, Arthur-san?”

“Nope!”

“Are you okay, Marc-san?”

“Of course.”

Arthur-san is still young, and unfamiliar outings can tire him out quickly, right? The garden is large with lots to see, so we’ve been walking a lot.

“Shall we take a break and have lunch?”

“Yes.”

The path to the restaurant has slopes and stairs, so Jay-sama carried Arthur-san on his back. Even if he’s energetic, it’s tough for a young child’s stamina.

“Are you okay, Rubina-onee-chan?”

“Yes, I’ll be fine if we go slowly. Marc-san, you don’t have to wait for me—you can go ahead.”

“No, I’ll walk while enjoying the scenery.”

There are flowers blooming along the path, so walking slowly isn’t bad either. Marc-san matched my pace out of consideration. For an energetic boy like him, these slopes and stairs are no problem.

“Phew, we finally made it to the top.”

“Rubina-onee-chan, you’ve been to this restaurant before, right? What do you usually do?”

Marc-san looked at me curiously as I caught my breath.

“Well, Jay-sama usually lends me his arm or holds my hand. I think this is the first time I’ve climbed up on my own?”

I feel like I’ve really conquered it!

“It must be tiring for a lady to climb alone, huh. But once you get up here, the view is different. The breeze feels nice, and from up here, the tulips look like a painting!”

“Yes, it’s wonderful!”

As Marc-san and I admired the tulips, Jay-sama came over and said,

“Pretty amazing, right? You wouldn’t know unless you climbed up. This is a restaurant for nobles, but maybe we should build an observation deck for the public too.”

“That would be well-received.”

“I hope so. Let’s take a closer look later, but for now, let’s go inside and rest.”

We were led to a private room with large glass windows on the outside. The sunlight streamed in comfortably, creating a bright atmosphere. It feels a bit like the sunroom at Jay-sama’s mansion, which is calming.

Since this is Arthur-san’s first time eating out, he might feel nervous with lots of people around, so it seems we’ll be dining slowly, just us. Arthur-san used his knife, fork, and spoon so well. At this level, he wouldn’t be embarrassed dining anywhere.

Since we’re a viscount family, we didn’t have many opportunities to dine with high-ranking nobles like this, but through my engagement with Jay-sama, I’ve been learning from a manners teacher. There are many differences in manners among high-ranking nobles, and I’ve also learned a lot through tea parties with Mother-in-law-sama and Julianne-sama. I feel very fortunate.

After enjoying the botanical garden, we dropped the two off at the marquis family’s residence. Arthur-san was so tired from playing that he fell asleep in the carriage.

“See you, Rubina-onee-chan!”

“Marc-san, today was fun. Please tell Arthur-san too.”

Jay-sama was carrying Arthur-san, and when we arrived at the marquis family’s residence, he handed him over to a guard.

“Let’s let Arthur sleep as is. Marc, were you well-behaved?”

Mother-in-law-sama came to greet us, and Marc-san pouted a bit at being treated like a child.

“Well, yes.”

Mother-in-law-sama smiled and looked at me.

“Rubina-san, you must be tired from looking after the kids, right?”

“It was so much fun. Marc-san walked slowly to match my pace, and Arthur-san listened to Jay-sama and was very well-behaved.”

“Really? That’s good. Julianne-san and the others will be back soon. What about you two?”

I glanced at the clock—it’s evening. It’s a busy time, so we should head back soon. I looked at Jay-sama.

“We’ll head back. Please give my regards to Anii-ue.”

“Alright. Take care on your way back. Thank you for today.”

We said goodbye to Mother-in-law-sama and Marc-san and got into the carriage with Jay-sama.

“You must be tired, Rubina. It’s different from spending time with them at home—going out makes you more conscious of things, doesn’t it?”

It’s safe at the marquis family’s residence, after all. Even with guards and maids today, I was still worried about whether they’d get hurt. But since they both listened well, we had fun without any injuries. It’s so different from my childhood with Onii-sama. I used to trip and cry a lot while chasing after him.

“They both listened to you, Jay-sama, so there was no need to worry. Still, they’re both so mature, aren’t they? It’s so different from my childhood.”

I giggled.

“Your childhood, huh… Just imagining it is adorable. What did you play?”

“I’d trip while running around, stumble over rocks and fall… During hide-and-seek, I’d cry because I couldn’t find Onii-sama and felt lonely. Oh, I’m bad at sports and have no sense of direction… So different from Marc-san and the others. What about your childhood, Jay-sama?”

“Hmm,” Jay-sama thought for a moment.

“Marc is being raised as the marquis family’s heir, so it’s different from my childhood. Anii-ue had lots of tutors and was always excellent but worked hard. My second brother trained to become a knight and was drilled by the marquis family’s guards. Seeing my brothers like that, I studied hard so I wouldn’t be an embarrassment… But I felt constrained and wanted to go out into the world, learn about foreign cultures, and talk to all kinds of people—that’s how I got to where I am now. People said I could study abroad because I was the carefree third son, but I got along well with my brothers, so we often played in the garden. I owe them so much.”

“You were like Marc-san is now, weren’t you, Jay-sama? Will Marc-san be able to study abroad?”

“If that’s what Marc wants, he’ll study abroad. I can’t let Marc outdo me, so I’ll keep working hard too. Will you cheer me on, Rubina?”

“Of course.”

Jay-sama’s efforts never stop, do they?

“Rubina…”

The atmosphere turned sweet! Oh, Jay-sama’s face is getting closer… No, that’s not okay! I put my hand over Jay-sama’s mouth.

“…Still no?”

“…”

My face gives everything away, so if I kissed Jay-sama… I wouldn’t know how to face my family.

“How about your cheek?”

I nodded.

He gave me a light kiss on the cheek, just a gentle touch.

“…Until the wedding,”

“It’s on hold, huh…”

Jay-sama said it so casually, but that took a lot of courage for me. If I kissed him, I’d fall for him even more.

“I’ve been keeping it a secret from you, Rubina, but I’m actually making some changes to the rose garden. It’ll be on hold for you until the wedding.”

Jay-sama said that, but the rose garden was already wonderful, wasn’t it? Adding more changes—when does Jay-sama even sleep with how busy he is?

On hold, huh… Still…

“Is there anything I can do to help? Are you getting enough sleep?”

“You’re already helping plenty, Rubina. You’ve been checking the household accounts and helping with the estate—I really appreciate it.”

Food expenses, utilities, servants’ wages—I reorganized the list of vendors working with the estate. It makes the expenses clearer and easier to manage. I may be bad at sports, but I’m good at calculations. The abacus, a calculating tool from the East, is really convenient and has become popular at the academy. Lately, I’ve been using it with the head butler, making clicking sounds as we work.

“Thank you for letting me see the accounts even though I’m still a student and we’re not married yet. Are you tired, Jay-sama?”

He was rubbing the corners of his eyes.

“Maybe eye strain. It happens sometimes.”

In that case—!

“Jay-sama, here!”

I patted my lap.

“Hm? What?”

“Please close your eyes for a bit. You’ve been working hard to take a break during our upcoming trip, right? Lie down.”

I forcibly placed Jay-sama’s head on my lap.

“It must be heavy…”

He laughed but went along with me.

“Close your eyes.”

I stroked Jay-sama’s head as it rested on my lap.

“If it’s uncomfortable, tell me right away.”

Even at a time like this, he’s considerate of me.

“It’s fine, so please close your eyes.”

I sang a lullaby that Mother used to sing to me when I was little.

“That’s nice…”

With that, Jay-sama started to breathe softly, as if he’d fallen asleep.

“Thank you as always. I love you.”

I kissed Jay-sama’s forehead.

~Jay’s Perspective~

Today is the trip I promised Rubina. Seeing her so excited in the carriage makes me glad I brought her.

“The mountains are so close! The air feels so fresh. Those flowers are cute too. Wow! The clouds are so near!”

“I’m glad I brought you here since you’re enjoying it so much, Rubina. The water around here is clean, and the food is delicious. This area has become especially popular as a tourist destination lately.”

We’re staying at a hotel tonight, so we headed there first to drop off our luggage.

“With such beautiful scenery, I can see why it’s popular.”

When we arrived at the hotel, a foreign-looking couple was arguing at the front desk.

“Looks like some trouble, huh?”

“Seems like it.”

I made eye contact with the man in the couple.

“Could you give up your room for us?!”

What’s that supposed to mean? I’m not sure how to respond to such a sudden request. All I did was make eye contact.

“Today is our wedding anniversary, and we came here on a secret trip. Five years ago, we could stay without a reservation, but now it’s reservation-only…”

I see, it’s because it’s become a tourist destination… It’s unfortunate that they traveled all the way from another country and can’t stay, but I can’t give in here.

“Jay-sama? What are they saying?”

Since it’s in a foreign language, Rubina must not understand.

“It’s their wedding anniversary, and they came here on a secret trip. They’re having trouble because they couldn’t get a room at the hotel.”

“Oh my! That’s awful. Jay-sama, please let them have my room.”

“Huh? Your room, Rubina—”

“I don’t mind staying at another hotel or with the maids. They’re in trouble, aren’t they?”

There’s no way I’d let Rubina stay at another hotel! And I absolutely won’t allow her to share a room with the maids.

Rubina stared at me intently.

“…I’m against you staying at another hotel or sharing a room with the maids, Rubina. Let’s share my room tonight… I swear I won’t do anything inappropriate.”

“Inappropriate… Jay-sama!”

“It’s the only way to give up the room, right? I don’t want to be apart from you during our trip, Rubina.”

I stared back at Rubina just as intently.

“…F-Fine, I understand.”

A little trouble like this isn’t so bad.

“Sorry for the wait. You seem to be in trouble. My fiancée says she’s willing to give up her room. Since this place has become a popular tourist spot, hotels are now reservation-only, so it must’ve been surprising compared to five years ago.”

“Thank you so much! Please thank your fiancée for us.”

He offered a handshake, and I accepted. The wife thanked Rubina as well. Even though they couldn’t understand each other, it somehow got across, and the wife shook Rubina’s hand too.

We arranged with the front desk to give up the room. I’d booked a nice room for our trip, but the payment shouldn’t be an issue. They clearly look like a wealthy couple.

“We’d like to thank you properly.”

They tried to stop us, but it’s not a big deal. I only gave up the room because Rubina wanted to help. And since this means I get to share a room with Rubina, I should be the one thanking them.

“No need. Troubles like this are part of the fun of traveling. I’m glad we could help someone we happened to meet. Have a good trip.”

With that, we parted ways.

“Shall we drop off our luggage in the room and go for a walk?”

“Y-Yes, let’s do that.”

Rubina followed me, looking a bit nervous. I’m not going to do anything to her… But her reaction is adorable. We were led to our room, and Rubina immediately went to the window.

“Wow, what a great view. The lake is sparkling in the sunlight.”

Even though the lake is a bit far, it feels so close when you look at it from the top floor.

“We’ve dropped off our luggage. If you’re not tired, shall we go for a walk?”

“Yes. I’d love to see the flowers we saw from the carriage up close.”

Those flowers are alpine plants, unique to this area. Rubina picked up her sketchbook.

“Your sketchbook?”

“Yes. Sketching doesn’t take long, so may I bring it?”

“Of course. I’ll get to see you sketch, Rubina.”

Since Rubina is in her final year, she apparently has a lot of assignments. She has to submit something embroidered, and her embroidery skills are good enough to earn an A grade. The embroidered handkerchief she gave me is safely tucked away in my inner pocket. We decided to go sketching first. While walking, we found an open-terrace café with the flowers she wanted to see blooming in the garden. I watched Rubina sketch while we had tea. I didn’t want to disturb her, but I couldn’t help looking at her hands.

She’s good. Doesn’t Rubina have a talent for drawing…? It wouldn’t be a bad idea to frame that sketch.

What size frame would I need for that? Maybe I should make one out of elm wood.

Instead of drawing in her sketchbook, she could paint on a canvas to preserve it as a piece of art.

We could travel to various places, sketch, and in the future, compile them into a collection… I turned into a doting fiancé in that moment.

“Jay-sama, sorry for the wait.”

Her voice snapped me out of my thoughts. It seems she finished sketching.

“You’re done already?”

“Yes, I’ve captured the general feel.”

“Can I see?”

She handed me the sketchbook, looking a bit shy. The drawing was done in a soft style that somehow made me imagine the colors.

“It’s really well done. Can I look at the other pages?”

With her permission, I flipped through the other pages. There was the design she embroidered for Marc, and even the rose garden. When did she draw these? I kept flipping through.

“You have a talent for drawing, Rubina. It’s great as is, but if you added color, it could become a real piece of art.”

“I just like drawing. I’m clumsy, so I need to sketch it out first before I can imagine the next step…”

Rubina is being modest, but she’s good enough to be confident.

“You remembered the things that caught your eye and drew them at home…”

There’s still so much I don’t know about her. She says she’s clumsy, but others would probably call it careful.

“It’s not something I’d show others—it’s just because we’re on a trip this time.”

That’s not true. If she added color, it’d surely turn into a soft, gentle piece that reflects her personality.

“You’re not going to add color?”

“I’ve never formally learned to paint, so I don’t really know how to use colors.”

What a waste! Wait, I’ve got an idea.

“Why don’t you learn?”

“Huh? Now?”

Rubina is a student, and her final year is busy with lots of submissions.

Graduating with good grades will be a status symbol for her viscount family, the marquis family she’s marrying into, and her future life, so she’s working hard. I can see she’s doing it not just for herself but for her family and me. She’s so earnest. I want to tell her she’s doing enough, but I can’t dampen her efforts.

“You’re busy now, so how about learning after you graduate? Shall I find a teacher for you? You looked so happy while sketching.”

Having more hobbies is a good thing. It’d be fun to meet new people through it… though I’d prefer she keep those connections moderate.

There are more female painters these days, but male painters still dominate. Painters are often eccentric, and I’d rather she not get too involved with them.

“Is that okay? I’m interested.”

Seeing this side of her on our trip makes me glad we came. Since I brought it up, the answer is, of course, yes. I’ll look for a female painter.

After that, we walked through the town and reached the lake.

“There are boats!”

I plan to ride one, but not right now.

“Want to go?”

“Yes. But can I row…?”

Huh?!

“No, I’ll do the rowing, so you don’t need to, Rubina.”

There are so many couples on boats. They’re so close to each other! It’d be bad if there were a collision… There’s a staff member, so it should be fine, but there are people fishing and swimming too. Definitely not now.

“It’s crowded now, but let’s ride a boat later.”

“I’ve never been on a boat, so I’m looking forward to it.”

Then I’ll have to row well. There’s a forest near the lake with a walking trail. We’ve walked quite a bit—Is Rubina okay?

“There’s a forest bathing trail with more walking paths. What do you think?”

“I’d love to go!”

I lent Rubina my arm, and we walked the forest bathing trail. The sunlight filtering through the trees felt nice, and the air smelled of greenery.

Rubina’s eyes sparkled as she watched a squirrel stuffing its cheeks with a nut.

“So cute… Look at those cheeks.”

She was completely captivated by the squirrel. You don’t see wild squirrels in the capital, so it must feel refreshing. After completing the trail, we found a café called “Hammock Café.” Rubina ordered a popular float and relaxed in a hammock, looking very content.

“I’m the only one enjoying myself, aren’t I? Is this a good break for you, Jay-sama?”

Rubina asked as we held hands on the way back to the hotel.

“Of course. I’m really glad we came on this trip. Even after we’re married, I’d love to travel like this again.”

The capital has everything, but taking time to enjoy the scenery and refresh is important.

“…Yes, one more year, right?”

“I’ll cherish it.”

“Me too.”

I’m so glad we came! Rubina’s parents trust me, but if they trust me too much, I can’t do anything. Is that their goal…?

Lately, Rubina has become more beautiful, growing into an adult woman. But her personality is still as adorable as ever, and that imbalance sometimes drives me crazy… Like Rubina said, thinking it’s just one more year makes it bearable… I hope.

It’s just one year! The rest of our lives will be much longer. I keep telling myself that. We had dinner brought to our room and enjoyed it while watching the sunset. Thanks to all the walking, the food tasted even better. I’d asked for an early dinner because there’s somewhere I want to go at night.

Since we’re sharing a room, that means sharing a bath… But this hotel has a large hot spring bath. Women don’t often use the public bath, so it’s reservation-only. Men go in and out quickly, so there are quite a few male guests. The sauna is well-equipped and popular among male guests.

“I’ll use the public bath, so you can use the room’s bathroom, Rubina.”

“…Yes.”

Rubina’s embarrassment made me feel shy too, so I hurriedly headed to the public bath.

“Jay-sama, please be careful not to make any mistakes.”

My attendant, who followed me to the public bath, said.

“I know that already!”

Don’t give me the final blow! I’m already weighed down by the heavy word “trust”! I absolutely won’t make any mistakes!

＊＊＊＊＊＊

We’re going out, but where to? Since we’re heading out at night, we had an early dinner and bathed. After my bath, I put on a dress the maid prepared for me. Just as I finished changing, Jay-sama returned to the room. The maid prepared tea, and I asked Jay-sama about the public bath.

“The hot spring felt great. The sauna is popular—after sweating, dipping in the cold bath feels amazing.”

“A cold bath? That sounds chilly. But saunas are hot, aren’t they?”

“There’s something called an outdoor air bath where you go outside for a bit and then back into the sauna. Repeating that improves blood flow, apparently. I think it’ll become more popular. The water here is clean, cold, and full of negative ions. Forest bathing has negative ions too, so it might feel similar. Are you interested in saunas, Rubina?”

“Yes. I heard they’re good for beauty. They say sweating removes waste from the body, right?”

“That’s right. Want to try tomorrow? Shall we make a reservation?”

I’m curious about saunas, but…

“We came on this trip together, Jay-sama, so if it’s the same negative ions, I’d rather do forest bathing. I’m interested in saunas, but I’ll save it for next time. It’ll give me something to look forward to.”

“What an adorable thing to say… If it’s a sauna, I think we could manage to build one on the estate grounds. We could use a corner of the property to build a small cabin—yes, it’d work! I’ll talk to the butler when we get back.”

“Jay-sama, what’s wrong? I couldn’t hear you clearly…”

“Sorry, I was just thinking about the future.”

The future? Is it about our night outing? After finishing tea, Jay-sama said, “Shall we head out?”

“Yes, but where are we going?”

“It’s still a secret.”

We rode the carriage for about ten minutes. When I asked again where we were going, he just laughed and dodged the question. It doesn’t seem like a suspicious place, but I’m curious!

“We could’ve walked, but the night roads are hard to navigate, and there aren’t streetlights. You never know what might happen, so I opted for the carriage to the destination.”

He offered his hand, and I stepped out of the carriage. When I got out, I saw it was the lake we visited during the day.

“The lake?”

“We’re going to ride a boat now. It’s dangerous, so absolutely don’t stand up on the boat.”

“Yes.”

It’d be terrifying if I fell into the lake. I’m not confident I can swim—I’ve never even tried. But I heard people float. From what I can see, the area around the lake and the boat are lit with lamps, and the boat is secured with ropes.

“I’ll get on first, and when I give the signal, it’ll be your turn, Rubina.”

Jay-sama got on the boat and extended his hand to me. There’s a small step, and the boat is swaying, so I took his hand nervously. The moment I stepped onto the boat, it rocked with my weight!

“Kyaa!”

“It’s okay, just stay calm.”

I thought I’d just taken his hand, but somehow I ended up clinging to Jay-sama.

“Y-Yes, sorry…”

I tried to pull away, but he hugged me tightly. The boat felt unstable, so clinging to Jay-sama made me feel secure.

“You smell like soap, Rubina.”

“I just bathed… You smell like soap too, Jay-sama.”

My heart is pounding… I can hear Jay-sama’s heart beating fast too.

“I’m really happy with this situation, but shall we get going? I’ll let go, so sit down slowly. I’ll light the way for your feet.”

The boat swayed gently, so I sat down slowly, watching my step. Jay-sama sat across from me and draped a blanket over my knees.

“It’s night, and we’re on the water, so it might get cold.”

He even prepared a blanket for me. I noticed a basket-like thing nearby—what could be in it?

Jay-sama started rowing, and the boat glided smoothly.

“It’s a full moon tonight.”

“Yes, it is.”

The large moon came into view.

“The lake is like a mirror, reflecting the moon—it looks like it’s floating.”

“Yes, it’s so beautiful.”

The full moon shimmered on the lake’s surface.

“They say if you ride a boat on this lake during a full moon, you’ll find happiness. It might just be a superstition, but isn’t it romantic?”

Just seeing this beautiful moon together is romantic enough. Jay-sama really is like the protagonist of a novel—so wonderful. I was so happy and moved that tears started to fall.

“Huh? Rubina, why are you crying?!”

“Because you’re so cool, Jay-sama. I never thought someone like me could have such a wonderful life… I feel like I don’t deserve you, Jay-sama.”

“…You’re an amazing woman, Rubina. Knowing you’ll be happy is what motivates me. I’ll keep telling you that until you believe it.”

“I don’t have that kind of charm—kya!”

Jay-sama took my hand, and before I knew it, I was sitting on his lap. The boat rocked so much that I clung to him out of fear.

“Are you okay over there?”

A guard’s voice called from the shore. Jay-sama replied, “No problem!” It must’ve been because the boat’s lamp swayed.

“To me, you’re full of charm, Rubina. I can rest easy knowing you’re in an all-ladies class, enjoying your academy life. You’ve become so beautiful that I sometimes worry someone might steal you away.”

Jay-sama, worried? No way…!

“I only have eyes for you, Jay-sama.”

“I know that, but I still get anxious sometimes. I act all cool, telling you to cherish your time with your family… but honestly, I want to marry you soon, Rubina.”

“It’s funny that you’re anxious even though you know I only see you. When I get married, Father plans to pass the family headship to Onii-sama and return to the estate. I love the estate, but going there is a bit…”

I suddenly remembered Dietrich.

“From now on, whenever you want to visit your family’s estate, I’ll go with you, Rubina. So don’t worry.”

“You’d come to the viscount’s estate, Jay-sama? It’s so quiet—there’s nothing there. No tourist spots either.”

There’s nothing particularly special about the estate. The only things to be proud of are the kindness of the people and the relaxed atmosphere…

“It’s where you grew up, a place that’s important to you, Rubina, so there’s no way it’s ‘nothing,’ right?”

It’s a place our family has protected for generations, a precious and important place for us.

“Father once said jokingly, ‘Our pride is that there’s nothing here. No problems, no disasters.’”

I remembered Father’s words and giggled.

“You’re busy, Rubina—crying one moment, laughing the next.”

“Well…”

“If you want to visit your parents at the estate, let’s go together. You were probably thinking of that guy just now, right?”

He caught me. Dietrich lives in the neighboring estate, just across the river.

“I wasn’t going to bring it up, but he’s working on the estate now. Manual labor, apparently. It seems they’re working him hard.”

“I see…”

I’m happy now, but I feel a slight pang of guilt. But I chose this path myself. I decided to walk a different road from Dietrich.

“Can we stop talking about this now?”

“Jay-sama.”

“Hm?”

“Thank you. Everything is thanks to you, Jay-sama.”

“I’m not sure what you mean, but you’re always the one making the final decisions, Rubina. I’ll support you if you’re unsure, but I want to respect your choices. Always.”

“Yes.”

A brief silence… Jay-sama broke it.

“Alright, let’s move on to the next thing.”

“Next?”

“I’m going to row the boat, so hold on tight.”

“Kya!”

He suddenly sped up, and I clung to Jay-sama in surprise.

“Hahaha! Quite thrilling, right?”

“It’s a bit scary!”

If the lamp goes out, it’ll be pitch black, so we’re hurrying back to the boat dock.

When we reached the dock and stepped onto solid ground, I felt relieved. The boat was so unsteady. After that, we spread a sheet on the grass, lay down side by side, and looked up. The basket had hot tea prepared, warming our slightly chilled bodies.

“Look up, Rubina.”

Jay-sama pointed. I followed his gaze…

“Wow! So beautiful…”

I was speechless at the sight of the starry sky.

“It’s beautiful, isn’t it? The air is so clear, you can see everything.”

A shooting star streaked across the sky. We watched it in silence…

“I’ll never forget this view.”

I murmured softly.

“You’re not going to draw it?”

“No, I’ll keep it in my heart. No matter how good I get at drawing, I could never capture this moment.”

I gazed at the sky, burning the memory into my mind.

“I can see why that couple from earlier came here five years ago. There are unforgettable views here.”

We lay there for a while, looking at the stars, before heading back to the hotel.

“You take the bed, Rubina. I’ll use the sofa. Good night, Rubina. See you tomorrow.”

He kissed my forehead. I grabbed Jay-sama’s nightclothes tightly.

“What’s wrong?”

“The bed is big, so…”

“No, that’s… I mean…”

“Oh, n-no, I didn’t mean it like that, but today, while being held by you, Jay-sama…”

With that, he hugged me tightly from behind.

“While being held? What do you want to do?”

“I want to sleep with you, Jay-sama.”

That was too bold. Is he put off? It’s embarrassing, but… I don’t want to be apart from Jay-sama.

“Hm. If that’s what you want, Rubina.”

After Jay-sama spoke,

“Kyaa!”

I was scooped up in his arms! Is this the rumored princess carry?

“No, I changed my mind. That’s not happening.”

Jay-sama skillfully pulled back the covers and laid me down on my side.

“You’re warm, Rubina. Being like this makes me feel at ease.”

Jay-sama’s arm as a pillow… Facing him, his face was so close. I got embarrassed and turned away.

I heard a soft chuckle, but not seeing his face made the embarrassment a little less intense. To think I’d feel this shy after saying it myself…

“Good night, Rubina.”

Hyaa! Not by my ear! My heart might not be able to take it.

I did something bold while on this trip.

I’m worried I won’t be able to sleep tonight.

~Jay’s Perspective~

I can hear Rubina’s soft breathing as she sleeps. To think she’d fall asleep in this situation…

I said I wouldn’t make a move, but being this close makes my resolve waver…

It’s troubling that she feels so at ease. Just having Rubina sleep in my arms makes me happy, but… I need to think about work or something, or I might lose control. No, just being in the same bed as Rubina like this is already enough.

I spent the night in turmoil. Staying up all night isn’t unusual for me, so I pretended to sleep.

It was a long night.

“Mmm…”

Rubina rolled over to face me. She must still be half-asleep. I gently stroked her head.

She mumbled sleepily and said, “Jay-sama.” What is this adorable creature?!

The impact… I looked up at the ceiling.

If I could see the starry sky here, it might calm me down, but all I see is the hotel room ceiling with Rubina in my arms. This is reality…

This is bad… I muttered to myself.

“Mmm…”

Oh no, did I wake her?

I was touching Rubina’s silky hair. I closed my eyes, trying to distract myself even a little.

I kept my eyes closed for a while—about an hour, maybe?

“Hyaa!”

I heard Rubina’s surprised voice. It seems she couldn’t hide her shock at the current situation. I slowly opened my eyes and looked at her face. Even though it was morning, her eyes were wide open.

“Good morning, Rubina.”

“J-Jay-sama…”

“What’s wrong? You’re the one who said we should sleep together, right?”

“That’s true, but…”

She hid her face, blushing bright red from embarrassment.

“You seemed to sleep well. Shall we wash up and have breakfast?”

“…Yes.”

Rubina quickly got out of bed as if escaping. Hmm. It seems she does see me as a man… I felt a bit relieved, somehow.

That was tough… Especially when she called my name in her sleep… Rubina probably doesn’t know how I spent the night feeling like this.

Her behavior is a bit off, but I find that adorable too. I never dreamed she’d invite me to sleep together. Maybe it’s the magic of traveling—kind of like how someone looks cool skiing on the slopes, but once they’re back on flat ground, you’re like, “Huh?” I won’t let her be disappointed when we return to the capital! The trip isn’t over until we get back to the estate.

We had breakfast and went for a morning walk. I’m a bit sleep-deprived, but the morning air feels refreshing.

“Jay-sama, a morning walk feels so nice, doesn’t it?”

Rubina’s steps are so light as she walks ahead of me.

“Yes, it does. It’s quiet, and the morning dew—everything feels refreshing.”

Rubina will be busy with graduation assignments and tests next month, so we won’t have time to spend leisurely like this for a while. This will probably be her last trip as a student.

After our walk, since it was still early and not crowded, we rented a boat. The full moon floating on the lake at night was magical and beautiful, but the morning lake, reflecting the light, is dazzlingly beautiful too.

I wonder which one Rubina prefers?

We rode the boat, checked out of the hotel, and got into the carriage. We stopped for lunch in a town along the way, and when we got back in the carriage, Rubina let out a small yawn.

“If you’re sleepy, you can rest on my shoulder and close your eyes.”

Since we were sitting side by side, I put my arm around her shoulders.

“I couldn’t sleep much yesterday…”

Hm? I thought I heard her breathing softly as if she were asleep.

“Really?”

“I was nervous… because you were so close, Jay-sama.”

“I didn’t sleep much either. I was nervous too, but I was happy to have you in my arms, Rubina.”

“I feel the same way.”

This isn’t good… The atmosphere is getting too sweet!

“Shall we close our eyes for a bit? I’ll do the same.”

If we both close our eyes, this sweet atmosphere might fade a little.

“Yes.”

I kept my arm around Rubina’s shoulders and pulled her head to my chest, letting her lean against me completely.

“The sound of your heartbeat is soothing, Jay-sama.”

My heart was beating steadily. After a while, Rubina started breathing softly, asleep. It’s about three hours to the capital. I’ll close my eyes for a bit too.

There was a knock on the door. I responded, and when the door opened, we’d already entered the capital. I meant to just close my eyes, but I must’ve fallen asleep too…

I dropped Rubina off at her estate and headed back. I’ll work hard again starting tomorrow. Things are about to get busy.

I dropped Rubina off in the evening, and now I’m at the shop. Since we added the women’s section, the shop has started feeling a bit cramped. I might’ve expanded the women’s section too much, thinking about what would suit Rubina… I’ll probably be so busy I won’t even have time to worry about her.