Flower of Steel

“Even just now, I would have helped you even if you didn’t do that to that extent,” said Rave.

Hollow laughter came out in response to those words. My entire life, I had lived in such a way. I have used those around me so that I could change the situation without any help. That’s how I’m used to living.

“It’s easier that way,” I replied.

I don’t need any help. What would have happened if he had helped? After all, he was one of the reasons behind this jealousy. I can say that nothing would have changed.

Rave seemed to have been deep in thought. His dark navy eyes were darker than usual. It was when my thoughts were in his eyes he said, “There’s no way it is easier, silly.”

I was curious about his sudden words and looked up. That’s when something was placed over my head. It was Rave’s hand.

“People don’t live alone. I’m the eldest son of the House of Marquis, but I get around people as a government official. People live by helping each other. Your actions sometimes make those around you feel worried. You refuse help and try to take all the burden by yourself.”

Those words pressed something inside me, and my heart felt stuffy. I was overwhelmed by that feeling, then I heard Rave’s voice again, “I’m your superior, Marina. I told you before that you can always count on me. If you want, I’ll be your ally.”

That made the burden on my shoulders a bit lighter. My ally, huh? It was an unfamiliar word as I believed I only had my family, cousins, and friends who lived far away. My ally.

“Thank you,” I said.

Although I was a bit embarrassed, I felt touched. My ally. While I was thinking about the word “ally,” Rave added, “It’s not just me. Look.”

He then pointed toward the entrance of the terrace, where I saw Lumi, who seemed nervous, and Lynel. My heart warmed. Rave helped me feel a lot better.

***

While waiting for the Reclan’s carriage with Lumi, I heard a familiar voice near the gate. Is that… Rian? My eyes met with his, and he waved his hand at me. I looked at him, curious as to why he was here.

“You should go to him,” encouraged Lumi with a wink and pushed me in that direction.

“Rian, why are you here?”

Hearing my voice, he smiled brightly and replied, “I was waiting for you. I was worried.”

“Worried?” I asked.

“Yes. I was worried that you might have run into some hardships.”

Then I was reminded of the words Rave had told me earlier. My ally. Yes, I wasn’t alone after all. I felt warmth returning to my heart. “I don’t have anything to give back… Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. I didn’t do it because I wanted something in return.”

I was reminded of the Crown Prince, though. The man who sided with me today. Honestly, I felt terrible for using you. Although you’re not my ally, thank you for siding with me today. Someday, I will pay you back for this debt. ‘I will craft a wonderful doll that you so badly want.’

After being lifted of that heavy guilt, I felt I could breathe easier. I was able to laugh with my friend after forgetting about that guilty feeling.

***

After the party, I felt a bit of guilt toward the Crown Prince. I couldn’t get over it even while I was working, so I kept sighing. And now, the Crown Prince that I met with again was nitpicking the documents I brought to him.

“You call these public documents?”