Im just worried youre overdoing things because of me.

No, theres no need to worry about that.

The Duke was quick to dismiss what I said as he shook his head.

Why, do I look disgustingly incompetent that I cant handle some backlash or scathing remarks?

Oh, no. T-Thats not what I meant.

If I was, I would have lost my title and position as a Rochester long ago.

I couldnt hide my embarrassment as the Duke said those words with such firmness.

While I was embarrassed, the Duke added his next words with frankness.

Actually, Ive thought about adopting you for a long time now.

.pardon?

I blinked blankly when I heard that.

What does he mean by a long time?

It was a while back. The day we celebrated the crown princes birthday together. Remember?

Yes? Ah..I remember.

I nodded.

That was when I was five, wasnt it?

Since then I considered bringing you into my family.

At that revelation, I was shocked.

EH, SINCE THEN?!

Youve been thinking about that for so long and you didnt even say a single word?!

At that time, you said you wanted a family.

..um.

I was left speechless for a moment.

Of course, I always wanted a family.

If I had a family, I would always be kind to them and cherish them.

Yep, I definitely said that back then.

Still, though, it was just the ramblings of a child and could be disregarded. I didnt think anyone would take it seriously.

..but the Duke still remembered those useless words.

Feeling my heart pound, I bit my lip. I was touched.

This child takes good care of others and yet, she doesnt have the knack at caring for herself.

The Duke lightly shook his head.

I thought, what canIdo? I should take care of this little kid.

Oh, Duke.

Since this kid is prone to mistakes, shouldnt I be concerned for her?

..yeah, that would have sounded better if he better-phrased it.

I was touched before and now Im slightly peeved.

The Duke added a brief but ambiguous remark.

And just so you know, this proposal has been talked about with Rose.

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Wait, the Empress?

I opened my eyes wide.

Before I knew it, the Duke had a weary expression on his face upon reminiscing.

When I asked her about adopting you, she was blissful to such a point I worried she would faint.

No, shes still Her Majesty, the Empress.

Couldnt you speak of her with formality?

Rose mentioned she wanted to get closer with you but she didnt know how.

Ah.

So with that in mind, I thought why not give you a chance to be Roses sister.

As expected, the Duke cares very much about the Empress.

I looked at the Duke with delight, telling him.

Thank you, Duke.

What?

Believe it or not, I thought you didnt like me much.

Honestly, didnt it seem that way?

From the first time we met, you looked at me like I wasnt supposed to be here, and ever since, you havent exactly been friendly.

But Im very moved that for a long time you thought of adopting me.

.hey, kid.

Im pretty sure its because the Empress cares so much for me but Im really happy nonetheless.

I smiled brightly as I said that.

Especially when the Duke remembered what I said on Damians birthday, all those years ago. It was touching.

The Duke however reacted with a stunned expression as he looked at me for a very long time.

.why is he looking at me like that?

After a while, the Duke with a frown on his face spoke.

.Do I have to explain myself with words?

Yes?

If I didnt like you, why would I go through the hassle of adopting you?

The Duke who spoke in that way sped up and quickly outpaced me.

His face was bright red as he passed me.

I was a little bewildered.

Could that mean that the Duke likes me too?

While I was dazed, the Duke reached the front door of my room ahead of me.

Then he turned to face me.

Im leaving the palace, kid. Change your clothes and then head back to the small banquet hall.

Oh, yes. Thank you for your concern.

I nodded half-heartedly, still dazed.

As I entered the room and turned to say goodbye, the Duke was gone.

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