Chapter 7

7. Alexei-san Likes Bento.

[Alexei’s POV]

I am Alexei. I usually manage the garden of the royal palace but the truth is, I am the King’s younger brother. I am 35 years old.

… It doesn’t mean that I’m managing the garden because I have a bad relationship with my older brother.

From the start, I am not interested in the throne at all and I am contented with the kind of life I am living right now.

Incidentally, my younger brother is the Knight Commander.

Today, I am going to boast to my little brother about the 『bento Haruto made for me.

I was surprised when I first saw the bento.

Various side dishes are beautifully arranged in such a small box.

Haruto shows prodigal skill in his work but it seems like his skills are not just limited to that.

“Vice Commander! Did you see my little brother?”

I happened to see the Vice Commander, who hurriedly saluted before me.

Though I really don’t care about things like that.

“Your Highness, it is rare to see you in a place like this. If you are looking for the Commander, I think he happens to be in his office.”

“Thank you,” I answered and headed to the office.

My younger brother Alfred is in his office inside the royal palace.

“Al, I brought some lunch!”

I approached my younger brother who looks worn out.

“Elder Brother, this is rare. I was just going to take a break, too.”

“That’s good,” I said, then asked the male assistant to prepare tea.

“I had it especially made enough for two people’s share today. It’s bento.”

“Bento?” Al seemed curious when I announced it with pride.

Al’s eyes went wide when he lifted his lids.

“This is beautiful. It’s a meal that can be eaten without expressly going to the dining hall! Furthermore, it’s delicious!”

He started eating the bento ahead of me!

If I don’t hurry up, even my share will be gone at the rate he’s going.

“By the way Elder Brother, who made this? Have you finally found a lover?”

“No, I picked up a young man recently. His appearance is like that of a woman but he is considerably strong willed and very intelligent.”

“He’s working in the garden right now,” I replied, then proceeded to introduce Haruto.

Al ate the bento with surprising swiftness.

“Please express my gratitude to Haruto-san, too. It was delicious.”

I left the office while saying, “Got it.”

Thereafter, I brought bento for Al everyday and it became popular inside the royal palace.