Chapter 6

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"By the way, I've been wondering, but isn't your attitude different from yesterday?"

"That's... well, I was drunk yesterday."

The numerous impolite actions from yesterday flashed through my mind.

(Wait, didn't I tell this person I'm not popular or that I find it troublesome?)

Moreover, I think I even gave some condescending advice to a duke. When I looked at Ilvys's face, expecting him to be angry, he surprisingly looked sad.

"So that's why you were unusually friendly yesterday..."

"I really am sorry... Please overlook my drunken ramblings with a broad heart."

"Oh, I caused a misunderstanding. I'm not blaming you, Amalia. It's my fault for not properly introducing myself."

Even our maid knew about Ilvys, so he must be really famous. I knew the rumor that "Duke Lambert dislikes women," but since I was completely devoted to my fiancé until recently, I had no interest in anything else.

(...I liked him that much, you know.)

Thinking about the unpleasant memories made me feel bad.

"So, I would like you to treat me the same way as last night."

"What kind of context led to that!? Did I say something while I was thinking?"

"Were you thinking about something while I was talking? I'm hurt, so please stop using polite language."

"Why is it like that!? There's no way I can do that to a duke!"

"That's not as rude as your words just now."

Feeling like I had dug my own grave, Ilvys took full advantage of the situation. My mistakes were leading to more mistakes, causing me more pain.

I could choose not to say anything, but then Ilvys would interpret it in a way that suits him.

"Besides, seriously, such a distant attitude will make people suspicious. Amalia, you have a fiancé, and I'm rumored to be uncomfortable with women. If we're still attracted to each other, it wouldn't be strange to show some passion, right?"

"Y-Yes, that's true."

"So, we shouldn't let any small actions create a sense of distance, right?"

"I think that's true...?"

I nodded without thinking, but Ilvys was right. There was nothing wrong with what he said, but it still felt off.

"Then, let's start by calling each other by our first names."

"Why are you casually adding more demands?"

"Are you going to call your lover by their title?"

Even though I'm sitting, he's looking up at me. His gestures are so natural, and his good looks are enviable.

"Ugh... Alright, alright, I understand! But it's hard to suddenly drop the honorifics, so at least let me use them."

"...Fine, I guess. It's better to gradually close the distance."

I sighed in relief as Ilvys finally backed off. I've been calling him by his first name in my head since last night, but I'm not brave enough to say it out loud.

By the way, why is Ilvys taking this so seriously?

He said he wanted dating advice last night, but I don't think he needs advice from me. Even if he did, it seems too imbalanced.

"Why are you being so cooperative, Duke Ilvys? I know I'm in your debt, but there's no benefit for you, right?"

"Is that so?"

In response to my question, Ilvys smiled brightly. I was so captivated by his smile that I forgot what to say, and he smiled even more.

"By the way,"

"Yes?"

"You seem to be looking at my face a lot. Does it meet your standards?"

As he said this, Ilvys leaned in, looking up at me. The excessive intake of good looks is making my eyes hurt.

"Of course it does! I mean, you're just too wonderful!"

"Compared to your fiancé?"

"Comparing is presumptuous! Besides, he's close!"

While staring at me, Ilvys closed the distance, but he stepped back with a bright smile, seemingly satisfied with my answer.

My fiancé is just decently good-looking, which is normal for a noble. In contrast, Ilvys is more perfect than any painting or sculpture. The difference in appearance between the two is like the difference between heaven and earth, and the difference in personality is even greater.

"That's good to hear."

I'm glad Ilvys seems happy, but the topic has been completely diverted.

I'll ask him about it another time.