Chapter 163: Unshakeable Hawthorn (4)

Chapter 163: Unshakeable Hawthorn (4)

Unshakeable Hawthorn (4)

I couldnt tell how long I held Louise in my arms, comforting her as she cried more than I ever realized she could. After all, she was usually always smiling.

Are you feeling better now?

Mhm

She buried her face in my chest, seemingly too embarrassed to look up.

I guess you really didnt like me liking him that much.

I teased her gently, and she snuggled even closer as if to say that she was sorry and silently asked me not to say any more about it.

She was unexpectedly cute. Though it was Louise who usually sought comfort from me, her actions strangely reminded me of my younger siblings.

When would we get another moment like this? But pushing her further might make her cry more, so I should leave it at that.

But you know, getting angry with me wont change anything. The decision isnt mine to make.

I felt compelled to add that. Even if Louise hated the idea, hating me wouldnt change the situation since Lady Marghetta was the prime candidate for the first wife. If Louise wanted to be with oppa, shed have to plead her case to the lady.

Louise didnt even know multiple marriages were possible, let alone how crucial the first wifes approval was.

I already have seniors approval.

Hearing Louise mumble that within my arms made me doubt my ears. Senior?

If we were talking about the same person, it could only mean the lady. Louise had the ladys approval?

Really? You mean Lady Marghetta?

Yes, she told me to give it my best. She said shed support me

I became speechless. While I was thinking that we were at a dead end, Louise had already cleared the biggest hurdle.

And it wasnt just any approval; it was practically an endorsement.

Already?

It was astounding. The lady had become closer to oppa during the break, and it hadnt even been half a year since school resumed. The momentum Louise had gained by securing the ladys approval was unbelievable.

And why did she use that momentum on me? With the ladys approval, my feelings should seem trivial in comparison.

Feeling almost deceived, I hugged Louise tighter. Was Louise, who had already been granted permission, keeping me, who didnt have it yet, in check?

Despite Louises squirming, I didnt let go. Just a little longer.

***

Class was almost starting, so we decided to meet again during the break. Louises jealousy subsided quickly, but I still had questions for her.

Tell me.

H-huh?

I pulled Louise aside for a heart-to-heart, or rather, an interrogation, as soon as break time started. The suspense had been killing me.

How did you get the ladys permission?

I thought it would be difficult. The lady and oppas relationship had already been confirmed, so why would she allow another wife?

I figured itd be easier to create a good relationship with oppa than to seek the ladys approval.

I was wrong.

Someone who had negotiated with the lady before even dealing with oppa was right here. Whats going on?

I looked at Louise eagerly, and she avoided my eyes. Louise, I trust you. I believe in our friendship and that youd share it with me.

The truth is, I dont really know.

At those words, I began to doubt if our friendship was that shallow.

No, I mean it! Senior came to me first!

She mustve sensed my frustration because she quickly added.

Hearing that the lady sought her out for a conversation raised my eyebrows. I couldnt picture Louise initiating a meeting with the lady, but the reverse seemed equally strange.

A chill ran down my spine as I thought of the lady warning someone who could be eyeing her position. But the idea that she would willingly accept them if her position was respected made my heart race.

The doors open. Come in.

I always left the door unlocked whenever I was expecting Louise. After all, no one else would visit except for Marghetta or Louise.

But as the door opened, a peek of blonde hair appeared through the gap.

Hello, oppa.

Irina?

My bad. There was someone else who visited.

My gaze briefly shifted to the hawthorn. Was it because of its presence that Irina came to my room immediately?

Maybe its a totem.

The idea that it could attract people was intriguing. I thought it was just pretty, but this plant seemed to be extraordinary.

Its been a while. How have you been?

Although I was curious, I redirected my attention back to Irina. It would be rude not to properly engage with a guest who made an effort to visit.

Ive been fine. I came after hearing news about you.

Embarrassing news, that is.

I couldnt help but let out a chuckle at Irinas words. She probably heard about my probation from Louise or Erich and decided to offer some consolation.

Regardless, I felt grateful. Considering how Irina used to avoid me, this was significant progress.

But wheres Louise?

I told her it was alright to come, so it worried me not to see her when she was usually around. I hope nothing serious has happened.

Oh, she had other matters to attend to. Its nothing serious.

Thats good then.

Irina spoke nonchalantly, but her bright demeanor was obvious to anyone passing by.

I guess it really wasnt anything serious.

***

An unexpected visitor arrived.

Oh, Lady Louise?

This was strange. Louise usually visited Carl at this time, didnt she? I heard from Carl himself that she visited him morning and evening.

Hello, senior. Im sorry for coming unannounced.

Thats alright. Oh, please sit. Would you like some tea?

Yes, thank you.

I got up to prepare the tea. Well, she mustve come for something important. Louise wasnt one to act without purpose.

As I was brewing the tea, I heard Lady Louises voice from behind.

I have something to ask you, senior.

But I hadnt expected her to get straight to the point.

Yes, go ahead.

Still, I preferred directness to beating around the bush.

Lady Louise was fidgeting with her fingers when I turned around, seemingly mustering up the courage to speak.

Would it be alright to have three?

What?

Her unexpected question caught me off guard. Three what?

Is she talking about children?

Well, I suppose having at least three would be nice.

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