CH 106

As a result of spending time with Father steadily, I no longer fear him blindly like I used to. But I was reluctant because I had never asked Father for a favor.

Having met regularly, I now have a little understanding of Father. Even when there was no time, Father still tried to keep his tea time promise with me, and he began to juxtapose work and his promise.

Then, I got to see Father at work. It became frequent, and I spent time sitting in the office on one of the days we met twice a week.

At first, being in the office itself was difficult. It was so difficult that I didn’t know what people were saying, and it was painful to sit still. But gradually, along the way, I started to learn something.

When I pretended to listen intently, Father’s large hand ran over my head. I liked it so much that I pretended to be listening, and it seemed like what I had learned in class could come out during the conversation. And Father’s work looked really cool.

It was cool to see Father at work because he had an adult atmosphere, unlike my childish behavior. I felt like I wanted to be like that, too. In addition, Father, who solved endless problems quickly, was amazing. When I understood, my resentment changed to respect.

After listening to the work in the office, our time alone became more comfortable. Half of them were still talking about the little child. But in the office, when I don’t understand or ask about things I’ve been curious about, the conversation has increased. So I think I’ve become more comfortable, but I’m still reluctant to ask for anything.

“Should I ask Father?”

“It’s better than not trying and regretting it.”

I was hesitant because Sir Henry didn’t give me a definitive answer. But he was right. It’s better to talk about it than to hesitate like this and end up never meeting the little child. But lately, he listened to me well, so instead of getting scolded, the conversation got along quite well. So I decided to give it a try.

And most importantly, Father also liked the kid. He wouldn’t object to me studying with the child. Rather, he might think that it was better than tea time.

Fortunately, I had time to spend with Father, so I didn’t have to ask for a separate audience. While talking with my father, I brought up the idea that I would like to take classes with the little child from now on. I was nervous, but Father readily allowed it. I was excited.

If we study together, we can see each other every day. It was good to think we would see each other more often. How should I convey it? If she hears this, the little child will like it, right?

But what if the little child couldn’t follow and she would be facing a hard time in class? Since I’m the older one, I should teach her well. Then the little child will fall in love with my cool look more, right? This was how luck comes during crisis!

The corners of my lips kept rising. Come to think of it, this was thanks to Sir Henry. It’s not like I’ve completely changed my mind about him, but I’m thankful for what I can. I’ll be generous with Sir Henry quite a bit.

“I’ll give you permission to say hello to the little child. No other chatter, though. You can never pretend to be friendly.”

I allowed it because I didn’t know if it would help again if Sir Henry was by my side. I glanced at his reaction. If he said that he was not satisfied with this, I would cancel what I just said and won’t even allow him to say hello.

But Sir Henry grinned. He’s smiling like that again. Do you understand? Are you ignoring my words? The good feeling was about to sink back down.

“Thank you for your permission.”

Sir Henry’s rather cool reaction was somehow suspicious. Are you saying you won’t pretend to be friendly in the future? Sir Henry didn’t listen to me like everyone else, so my faith in him was low.

Sir Henry added as I rolled my eyes and looked suspiciously.

“Young Master Kirsec would have nothing to worry about.”

“What am I worried about?”

“Lady Aide. It has no other meaning. I treat her kindly, like a younger sister.”