Duty-Bound: Chapter 65
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The elders were pressing her to announce her choice. Ruka's arrival had indeed led them to believe that he was the one she chose. Unfortunately for them, she had denied such implications by stating, once again, that her chosen one was not from the noble families.
Today would be the last day of Ruka's visit, and she was having afternoon tea with him.
"Princess… I would like to ask for your forgiveness about my arrival. I didn't—"
"Please. It's not your fault, Ruka-dono," she interjected while giving an assuring smile. Suddenly, their last conversation crossed her mind. "Tell me, Ruka-dono; what do you know about me and my intended?"
Ruka blinked before smiling. "To be honest, I didn't know much except for his name. Before I came here, Aida… she actually visited me…"
By that word alone, she understood everything. Apparently, her twin really loved this man. Her sister must have wanted Ruka to find his own happiness. The least she could do for them was to help Ruka move on. "I have a small request."
Ruka tilted his head slightly.
"If it's alright with you, I would like to extend my hospitality for a few more days."
Uncertainty filled his blue orbs. "May I ask why, Princess?"
She smiled at him, trying to ease his nervousness. "I will not take any offence should you refuse, Ruka-dono."
His eyes widened in surprise. "My apologies, Princess. I didn't mean to offend you. I'm just afraid that my stay here will cause more harm than good."
Her smile remained. "I assure you, you won't. So?"
After a short contemplation, he relented. "As you wish, Princess. Thank you for your kind offer."
She glanced at Natsume, who was undoubtedly displeased with her decision, wordlessly telling him that she would explain everything later.