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CHAPTER 124 - "THIS IS WHERE YOU BELONG."
"Phew, I'm tired..."
In the gentle afternoon sunlight, Ortansia walked stealthily through the corridors of the Duke's mansion.
The reason for sneaking around her own home, the Duke's mansion, was to avoid the maids, including Pamela.
The trigger was an announcement that came to Ortansia and Gerard, citing the commendation for saving Prince Victor as the reason for a royal commendation from the royal family.
Gerard wore a displeased expression, and Ortansia trembled at the thought of being honored for merely hindering Gerard.
Their father, once again, was the one who convinced the two.
"The royal family probably wants to openly display the friendly relationship with the Verite Duchy. While you both might have reservations, attending would strengthen our influence with the royal family when needed," their father said.
Unable to oppose their father's words, Ortansia reluctantly decided to make a rare appearance in public.
"Ladies and gentlemen, it's the young lady's stage! Let's fashion her into a perfect lady befitting the title of a saint with our own hands! Approach this with care!"
"Yes!"
Contrary to Ortansia's feelings, the maids were overly enthusiastic. When the maids learned about the scars on Ortansia's body that wouldn't fade away, they cried as if it were their own concern. They were undoubtedly putting in effort to ensure Ortansia could face the future confidently.
It was appreciated, but being constantly changed into different outfits like a doll and receiving various treatments such as esthetics and massages for days on end became tiring. Thus, Ortansia decided on a momentary escape, leaving a note saying, "I'm going for a short walk for a change of scenery."
Of course, she didn't want to worry the maids. The plan was to return quickly after a brief change of mood. Following a hidden route, Ortansia stepped into the garden.
"Oh, the Shangri La flowers..."
Rare blooms unseen elsewhere currently graced the Duke's mansion garden.
Back when Ortansia first arrived at the mansion, Gerard, misunderstanding her liking for these flowers, had ordered a large quantity of them.
Recalling that moment, Ortansia chuckled.
"So, you were here."
At that moment, a voice suddenly came from behind, causing Ortansia to jump in surprise.
"Onii-sama!"
Turning around, Gerard was approaching with his usual expressionless demeanor.
"The maids were looking for you."
"Haha... I'll be back in a little while. Just taking a break here."
Gerard alternated his gaze between Ortansia and the Shangri La flowers before nodding in understanding.
"You really do like these flowers."
"W-Well, yes! I love Shangri-La!"
Perhaps triggered by reminiscing about the past, Ortansia unintentionally slipped into a cute act, but Gerard didn't seem particularly suspicious.
"Got it. I'll arrange to get more."
"Oh! That's okay! If there are too many, it might lose its charm, you know..."
"...Is that how it works?"
Seeing Gerard pause in thought, Ortansia felt relieved.
Indeed, she loved Shangri-La flowers. Their beautiful appearance and refreshing fragrance were particularly enchanting.
Above all else...
‘Big brother planted these flowers for me…’
This flower had connected the somewhat awkward Ortansia and Gerard, making it even more precious.
"By the way, big brother, are the preparations for the commendation ceremony going well?"
"There's not much to prepare. Just attending as usual."
"Wow... you truly are amazing, big brother.”
With admiration, Ortansia looked up at her brother.
Gerard was gazing into the distance, and his presence felt dazzling to Ortansia.
‘Will I... able to be of some help to my brother’
Even though the threat of the demon had passed, Gerard still carried a heavy burden. Ortansia couldn't forget that her father had suddenly left this world in her first life.
‘I will protect them both.’
Renewing this vow in her heart, Ortansia turned to face the same direction as Gerard.
"By the way, big brother... Do you remember? A long time ago, you told me that this is where I belong.”
She vividly remembered that moment. Surely, she would never forget it in her lifetime.
"I... was really happy."
Happy that Gerard, of all people, said that to her. Happy that she could come to a place that was out of reach in her first life. Even now, the memory was a treasure for Ortansia.
"So... hya!?"
Mid-sentence, Ortansia felt a sudden sensation of floating and let out a surprised yelp.
The cause became apparent immediately.
Without any warning, Gerard had lifted Ortansia into his arms.
"Big brother!?"
"...I also remember it well."
"Ah..."
Ortansia finally sensed Gerard's intention.
Even back then, Gerard had lifted Ortansia like this. Although Ortansia had grown significantly since then, Gerard still effortlessly lifted her.
‘Can we stay like this forever?’
Suddenly, a hint of unease crossed her mind. While Gerard was currently treating her like in their childhood, there might come a day when he would distance himself from Ortansia.
His icy demeanor was gradually thawing, and the gaps in his heart were beginning to fill.
In the not-so-distant future, there might come a day when he takes someone else's hand, not Ortansia's.
When that day comes, Ortansia should celebrate her brother's happiness as a supportive sister.
Even though she understands that...
‘It's a little frustrating…’
Selfish thoughts flooded in, and Ortansia tightly clinged to Gerard.
Silently, Gerard reciprocates by embracing Ortansia.
"...Don't forget, Sia. You belong here."
"Yes, Onii-sama."
For now... for this moment, Ortansia can be as close to Gerard as possible.
So, just for a little longer, she'll indulge in his kindness.
As if watching over the two embracing figures, a warm breeze gently swept through the Duke's mansion's garden.
AUTHOR'S NOTE
Thank you very much for reading up to this point.
For now, I've reached the point I initially planned, so this marks the end of Part One! I still have many parts left to write, but I'll take a break for a while before posting the continuation.
The comic adaptation is currently being serialized, so I hope you can enjoy that while waiting.
I would be delighted if you could share your thoughts on what's been written so far!
We are currently intensively updating this work.
I would be happy if you could check it out when you have time
1. "The Exclusive Maid of the Divine Beast Knight ~The Incompetent Lady, Belittled as Useless, is Actually a Rare Holy Attribute User~"
(Link: [神獣騎士様の専属メイド](https://ncode.syosetu.com/n8964id/))
2. "I Became the Employed Wife of the Death God Marquis, but Every Day is Bliss with the Adorable Children!"
(Link: [死神侯爵の雇われ妻になりましたが、子どもたちが可愛すぎて毎日幸せです!](https://ncode.syosetu.com/n7853if/))
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Translator Note:
This series has finally been completely translated.
Thank to all readers and supporters who have been with us till this very last chapter. Your support is highly appreciated!
Hope you enjoyed the read!! If you did, please vote on for this novel on novel updates, leave reviews, and support; pretty please.
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