The tune of the relationship between Jean Gunnhildr and Diluc Ragnvindr changed. It was not an abrupt change, in fact, it was gradual, but that was probably why it was so dangerous. The gradual manner in which their relationship shifted was so minuscule that neither Jean nor Diluc noticed it until they were just too deep into each other.

Jean was pinned against a tree and a red-haired man covered her figure. Their lips interlocked with one another. They were supposed to be training- yes training- not this kind, but that of punches and kicks and the sword.

Jean gasped as she caught her breath and Diluc recaptured her lips. Yes, he has to train her. His hand that was on her lower back pulled her closer to him. A soft moan came out of the female's lips and in a daze he pulled away.

Yes, the progression was gradual, neither of them knew how their relationship had turned into this.

"We need to train," Diluc mumbled. His foggy mind was filled with lust for the blonde woman.

"Hmm," Jean agreed and captured his lips, Diluc's thoughts forgotten as their lips and tongues interlaced with one another again. "In a while."

It took them fifteen minutes to finally stop and start their training. Diluc held Jean close to him, breathing in her scent and then leaning his forehead against hers. Their soft pants music to each other's ears.

"We will catch our breaths and continue your training," Diluc stated and Jean gazed up at him hazily. Jean found his fingers and traced his calloused hands. Hands that could not possibly be from an average fighter. She stole a small peck on his lips and she heard his low growl, it was a sign that she was treading into dangerous waters to which their relationship had not yet reached. He was keeping control and she knew that. She could at the very least identify that: despite his fervent caresses, he still held a tight leash on himself.

"Then let's go train," Jean suggested as she pulled away, his hand being the last thing she released. Jean could still feel his calloused hands against hers when his touch was no more. She could still feel his body arched over her frame. His entire presence was as if wanting to engulf her fully. His needy kisses have become intense that she matched very well.

Jean wasn't certain how they ended up like this, but she enjoyed his warmth- his lips.

"No distractions," Diluc whispered to himself as he watched the blonde walk away from him, but it was clear that she had become a distraction. He wasn't supposed to be distracted. It was why a loveless marriage was necessary and preferred. And yet, here he was, kissing the woman he thought he could enter a loveless marriage with.

He indeed was a fool.

They had reached the point where they were doing hand-to-hand combat and Diluc was her sparring partner, in fact, they had already sparred with wooden swords. But for today, a bare-knuckle sparring exercise would be better. If his little distraction causes a mishap, a mistake from hand-to-hand combat would be much more preferred than the wooden sword.

He couldn't bear the thought of hurting her, especially with the sword. Even if it was wooden.

It was clear to Jean that Diluc was rather distraught. His hits were faster than she was used to and a little stronger than usual. She wondered how much strength had he been holding back since he started training her because she was certain that even at this moment, this wasn't his full strength.

When she thought she had finally had a grasp on the kind of person Diluc was, she was then left doubting her conclusion the next second.

Jean managed to block his blow by crossing her arms over her chest but she was pushed back a couple of steps. Diluc heard her soft grunt and saw the trail of dust Jean made from being pushed back by his strength and he sighed.

"Sorry." He apologized however it was clear that he was confused and not paying attention.

"Is everything alright, Diluc?" She asked softly and he simply stared at her.

"Sorry, it's nothing," He looked away, his eyes slightly wide and he sighed again as he tried to not look so worried.

Jean looked as though she was about to insist, but he quickly added, "I can't see you in the coming days."

It felt abrupt and sudden, Jean couldn't help but feel like she did something wrong and she wondered if she had.

"I see." She simply replied as Diluc adjusted his sleeves.

"I think I will be away for a week." He added, and she was very surprised at the information. She wanted to ask him where he would be but found that her lips could not part at all. Even though they were kissing each other minutes ago, their relationship was just that.

The attraction they felt for one another finally caved in, and they finally are at the point that they are acting upon it. But it was just that. The secrets they held close to their hearts were still where they were- in their hearts and not shared with one another. Maybe it was because they were still starting or perhaps, they just have no intentions to be intimate in that sense, either way, they still knew so little about one another.

And even if they had wanted to know more of the other, they had already agreed: this was a relationship of convenience.

At some point, once the two are married, they would have to consummate their marriage and produce an heir. Perhaps this was all just practice to get to that point– consummation.

"I understand, you are a busy man." Jean smiled and tried to look encouraging. Whatever is the reason for why they are kissing one another– it doesn't matter, at least there is no deeper meaning to it than them giving in to the attraction that was between them.

The secrets they want to keep will remain as secrets. They must keep their relationship clearly defined. They were just exchanging saliva, nothing more.

Diluc looked hesitant but said nothing, he merely cleared his throat and they continued with what they were doing- training.

When it was done, before he left, he held her again.

"I will miss you." He told her but she doesn't reply with words. Jean replied by reciprocating his kisses.

Despite his words telling her that he would miss her, she couldn't allow herself to believe them. After all, their relationship was truly shallow.

It just had to be.

At the very least, it had to be, in order to protect their frail hearts.

~.~.~.~.~

Jean didn't know it, but as Diluc approached her, his heartbeat was everything but calm. She was sitting below the shade of a tree. They should be training, but today, they had agreed that they would just spend time in each other's company.

And to Jean's surprise, he had not objected to her suggestion.

So, there she was, sitting under the shade of a tree, with her long black skirt fluttering a bit because of the wind as she read her book.

"The Thoughts of A Swordsman." Diluc said as he stood before her. Jean glanced up a soft pink blush on her cheeks.

"Yes." She answered softly as he sat down beside her. He could tell that she was conscious of his presence. But in her company, he felt the most… safe…?

Diluc sat beside her and rested his head on her shoulder and she allowed him to do so.

He wasn't sure if safe was the adjective he would describe her presence as… but as he closed his eyes, it was in this spot beside her where he can truly get some good sleep.

When Diluc woke up, there was a weight on his right arm, normally he would be on high alert, but he merely turned his head a little to see a blonde head resting on his arm. He couldn't help but chuckle a little, Jean's hand was barely pinning the book to her lap. The book was about to slip and so he cautiously picked up the forgotten book that was left open and pressed against her legs.

Diluc's red eyes skimmed the words and then his brows visibly furrowed.

She told him she loved him. And the desire he had for her burned even brighter. He leaned in to kiss her so passionately that in a mere five seconds, she was already breathless. He let her breathe for a second but the next his hands were already roaming her body and his lips were against hers again.

He will not let her go anymore.

Diluc didn't need to read the following words to know where this man was going, after all, his own man between his legs reacted to the scene too. When he read the text all he could think of was him with Jean.

He cleared his throat and tried to calm himself, and focused on finding out what this book was about.

Jean stirred a little but did not wake. Diluc flipped to the first page of the book and continued flipping until he found the first chapter. And he read from there with furrowed brows.

When Jean woke up, she was confused and she happened to glance up, only to see Diluc's face that was terribly too close. She studied his lips move but did not comprehend what he was telling her.

He smiled at her softly and she found herself reciprocating with a shy little smile.

"So, this is a romance novel?" He said, and Jean's brows softly furrowed, her eyes catching him lifting something which she glanced at. Her face turned pink and she was about to grab the book but Diluc lifted her chin softly with his index finger.

Jean seemed to just recall just how close her face was to Diluc's face. She gulped, "Ye–"

He kissed her, and she kissed back.

He pulled away as if asserting his control over his lust for her. "So, this is a romance book." A teasing smile on his lips and Jean's heart skipped a beat. "And here I thought it was a psychology book about swordsmen."

Jean's blush deepened, she tried to reach for the book but he brought it far from her reach, "I-I like romance books– it's– a comfort."

His eyes observed her red ears and there were things he wanted to do with those ears that he couldn't– he really shouldn't.

Then a thought came to mind, and he became sour, "Is this why you want to learn swordsmanship? When you go on an adventure, find a lover similar to a book you read?"

Jean's face looked nothing short of a red tomato, "That is ridiculous!" She jumped for the book and Diluc's eyes widened.

"Woah-woah!" He grabbed Jean's head and pulled her to him as they rolled, he made sure she landed on him. It was his natural instinct to ensure she didn't accidentally hurt herself, maybe hit her head on a rock, so of course, his body was expendable in comparison to her safety.

Diluc audibly grunted in pain with closed eyes and Jean's breasts were almost against his face. They both had a hand extended to grip the book.

"Seriously, you didn't have to tackle me to get the book." He opened his eyes only to be briefly met by her breasts. But Jean quickly sat up on his chest, which was just as bad.

Diluc pressed his lips to control himself, and Jean quickly got off of him, "I'm so sorry!" She stumbled to climb off of him. She made sure that her face would not be seen by him. He inhaled deeply and sighed aloud.

Diluc propped himself and placed a hand behind him as he leaned back a little to gaze at Jean.

"It's–just… no one knows I read those kinds of books. I'm embarrassed, I am the daughter of Frederica Gunnhildr, her first-born, I do not have the luxury to daydream about romance. My marriage– everyone expects it to be political." Jean explained and he was unsure about her words. "My mother... she wouldn't mind if we– Barbara and I, married for love. She said: to have what she had would be a great fortune."

Jean seemed to have composed herself as she glanced back at Diluc, with no signs of her embarrassment. "But we both know that is a very impractical thing– to marry out of love…"

There was a half-smile on Diluc's face, "That, I must have to agree with, Lady Jean."

And a gust of wind brushed their skin as they stared at each other in silence.

"But I must admit, to be given the blessings to marry out of love– that is a very fortunate thing, a lot of women would not be granted such a thing," Diluc added wanting to look away, but he wanted to see her expression.

She gave a faint smile and replied, "But what of it? Love? You and I– I don't think we are fated to have such a thing…" Jean looked away, her hand brushing the grass. "Our family name is our burden and love– there is no room for such a thing with the weight of our names."

"And so, you find solace in books?" Diluc tilted his head trying to catch her expression, but it was impossible from where he sat.

"The books give me something that I know I cannot have." Jean admitted and then added, "Our names– it gave us endless possibilities– and yet for me– I was denied the thing I have always wanted since I was a child." Jean closed her eyes and sighed. "I suppose a name can only get you so far." She turned to look at Diluc and her eyes were stern and her smile was empty.

"It's why I chose you– your name will get me to places." Diluc blinked at her words, and instead of finding himself offended, he felt his chest bubble with laughter.

Jean bit her lip, a smile forming on her lips. His laughter was contagious and she didn't know why– she couldn't explain why it was when she thought it really shouldn't be.

Diluc moved closer to her and cupped her face, "Don't bite your lip, you will hurt yourself." His eyes were on her lips and she released them just as he went down to devour her tender lips.

"Then…" He paused to kiss her again. "I will make sure you get to use my name well." His tongue licks Jean's bottom lip asking her to open her mouth for him.

And Jean complied with his tongue's demands.

~.~.~.~.~

When Diluc came back, a week had not passed since they last met. In fact, he was only gone for three days. When Jean received a note that he would be where they agreed to meet the next day, she was surprised. She didn't expect he'd finish earlier than planned.

He didn't seem the type to rush business to attend to something else.

And Jean who was waiting had just recalled a memory she had of him and her, when he found out what she was reading.

And in all honesty, a small part of her hoped that he finished whatever it was that he was doing as quickly as he could because he wanted to see her. But that was wishful thinking and she knew that she shouldn't let herself think such things.

She arrived first at their meeting place, and the moment their eyes met, Diluc looked as if he was stomping toward her– she couldn't help the rapid beating of her heart. From where she stood it looked like he desired her so much and that made her unconsciously hold her breath.

And when he reached her side, she was finally able to breathe again only to feel his firm hand on the base of her spine pulling her towards him. And his lips claimed hers.

It was like a dream come true.

And of course, Jean Gunnhildr, kissed back just as passionately. Because in all honesty, she desired him too.

When their kissing slowed, and her fingers traced his jaw, she said, "You came earlier than expected."

She felt him freeze and then a nervous and quick chuckle, "I… understand this is quite dangerous." He cleared his throat and took a step back as he studied her.

Jean felt like a specimen. Perhaps only he could make her feel such a thing.

The way his eyes were inspecting her, made her feel like he was even deliberating her very soul.

She was worried he'd deem her unfit to be with him. But of course, she couldn't show it outwardly. She had to contain all her nerves. Nerves that he had set aflame.

She kept her silence because their relationship was something of convenience. This was something she was very clear about.

"Yes, I have to agree." She quietly responded and it seemed those words eased the red-haired man.

Whatever this was, it was not love or a long-term companionship. This was just temporary. A moment where the two gave in to a desire they could not explain.

And the two continued with their training.

But this was just the beginning of a trend that Jean would notice, and likely something Diluc had noticed too.

He would tell her that he could not meet her for a certain number of days but would come running back earlier than expected and kiss her as if he missed her. But as these incidents continued, his forlorn look would darken too.

And then suddenly Diluc seemed to have pulled away from her. He was clearly controlling himself– on an even tighter leash.

He would come back from his business trips closer to the expected time he said he would be away or maybe even a few days later than he initially told her. He would walk to their meeting spots sluggishly and Jean was very aware that he was doing this on purpose.

Likely trying to put control and structure back into their meetings. Because it was very clear that the lines they drew were blurred, but of course, she could not say anything about her suspicions regarding his actions.

Then one day, Diluc looked as if he was about to end everything with her as he approached. At least to Jean that was what he had looked like as he approached her. The seriousness on his face– no, his entire body, was rather imposing. Jean was very worried. Then she noticed a blonde woman behind him.

She wore a maid's outfit.

Jean's heart dropped down to her stomach, but she would not say anything nor make her face show her displeasure over this unexpected guest.

If Diluc brought someone else to their meetings then there was a reason for it. But she could not deny what she was feeling, a displeasure that she was rather unfamiliar with.

"Diluc." Jean greeted him with her hands gently pressed on her lower stomach area.

"Adelinde." Diluc tilted his head towards the woman behind him, as his way of introduction for Jean. "My Head Maid."

Jean smiled tightly. Of course, this was the famous Head Maid everyone seemed to mention without fail when discussing Diluc Ragnvindr. His famed lover. Diluc's longest lover. The one who held a special place in his heart.

"I see, welcome." Jean smiled at her.

This was eventually going to happen; Jean had anticipated this situation. Jean and Diluc's famed lover would meet eventually, a fact that loomed over her since the moment he proposed this undertaking. It just so happened that he seemed to want it done earlier than she could ever expect. But truly, there was probably no right or wrong time to introduce your mistress to the legal wife.

Jean's eyes noticed the basket that the Head Maid was holding and Jean tilted her head a little with furrowed brows.

Whatever jealousy that bloomed– if it was– not that she would admit it– passed at the sight of the basket.

Adelinde smiled warmly, "I was told that you two would have a snack after. I hope the things I prepare are to the Lady's liking." She glanced at Diluc with a gaze that Jean had seen on women who would fawn over a man. "But I think the right word to call you is Master." Adelinde bent her torso a little with her free hand over her beating heart.

Jean glanced at Diluc whose indifferent expression made her frown. "Does Adelinde know…"

"She knows enough," Diluc said, his red eyes unyielding as they met her grey gaze.

"Alright…" Jean mumbled, glancing between the two.

Adelinde seemed like she was excited to be here but contained her excitement quite well. Diluc on the other hand seemed like he wanted to be away from here. And Jean did not know how to feel about this observation.

Were the future wife and the mistress meeting such an uncomfortable scene? And if so, then why did Diluc decide to bring his lover here? Jean would have wanted to point it out but of course, she could not.

"Let's train as promised." Diluc rigidly instructed and Jean nodded.

No matter, even if he just introduced his lover to Jean, the lady had to be all right with it. After all, they had agreed that she would not stop him from his nightly activities. Although, right now it was not night and she knew she could find fault at him with that, but–

"Yes, we should." She turned her back on Adelinde to follow Diluc. It was none of her business.

Her business with Diluc was to have him train her and a marriage that would grant her, her dreams.

Jean and Diluc trained while Adelinde stayed below a tree with the basket. Adelinde's eyes locked on Jean.

Eventually, Jean cleared her throat and stared at Diluc, "I think your training is quite effective." She smiled weakly and Diluc merely stared. Then he gazed down at her lips and she recognized the desire that flickered behind those red eyes. But she pushed through the distraction– the desire that she could tell he had for her, that was stirring her lust for him to awaken too, "In fact, it is so well that I can't help but sense your Head Maid's steady gaze on me."

Diluc froze, and he stared at Jean seriously. "She is doing her job."

Jean avoided his gaze, words clouding her mind, words that were so close to forming sentences about the negative emotion forming inside of her. But– she couldn't let it completely be born.

It was none of her business.

"Okay." She answered, meeting his gaze again. Her silver eyes looked like cold metal under the sunlight. She would just ignore it then. That was what Diluc was telling her really. Ignore it.

When the two decided to take a break, they turned to where Adelinde was and they saw her on a blanket and preparing dishes. Jean could see herself in what Adelinde was doing– after all, she had been the one bringing Diluc food to have picnics with her.

Adelinde timed it perfectly, that when the couple arrived in front of her, she had laid everything out. She smiled and bowed at them. "Master Diluc, Master Jean, I hope this is all to your liking."

Before Jean could say anything Diluc spoke, "Adelinde, I have to talk to you." Jean's mouth parted and immediately closed.

"Of course, Master Diluc." She stood up from her spot and then glanced at Jean. "Please, Master Jean, enjoy the things I prepared first then."

Diluc had already walked away and gestured for Adelinde to follow and Jean's eyes watched them as they went further and further away. It was clear Diluc didn't want their conversation to be heard by Jean.

The young Gunnhildr breathed in and exhaled as she sat on the blanket.

It did not matter. She told herself and studied what was laid out and to her surprise, the things prepared were catered to her pallet.

She picked up a piece of bread and glanced at Diluc and Adelinde. Diluc's face or maybe it was Adelinde's– was way too close to each other. Jean was practically convinced that they would kiss one another. A thought she did not quite welcome. But if the rumors were true, that would mean when it is the day, Jean would be kissing him, but at night it would be Adelinde's lips that he would be kissing. She wondered during the days when he kissed her so passionately, and when the night fell, did he provide the same service to Adelinde.

Jean merely pressed her lips. It would not be odd if he did. After all, what do lovers do?

It would be more than what Jean and Diluc were doing in their training sessions when they weren't training. And because their relationship had not progressed in that way, it would not be unusual if he sought it out elsewhere. After all, it was what Diluc Ragnvindr was famous for.

Diluc's head was tilted at an angle so that Jean could barely see his face, but Adelinde's head was completely facing Jean. Their eyes seemed to have met one another for a moment. A hand was covering Adelinde's mouth, but the Head Maid's eyes seemed to sparkle as her steady gaze remained on Jean.

Jean wasn't certain what to feel– in fact, she wasn't certain what she was feeling generally at the sight of Diluc with his Head Maid whom he brought suddenly, all so very cozy to each other.

Although, she was also quite aware that this…emotion that she was feeling was rather misplaced. Jean had heard about Diluc and Adelinde's famous love affair, so to feel the way she was– she knew it was unreasonable.

It took a lot of her control to pay Diluc and Adelinde no mind.

Jean was so focused on eating that she had not noticed the two approaching her until Diluc's voice startled her, "Adelinde is sorry for making you feel uncomfortable."

Diluc and Adelinde noticed how Jean jumped a little on her seat, and Adelinde failed to hide her small giggle.

Adelinde cleared her throat, just as Jean looked up, "Yes, my deep apologies Master Jean. It was not my intention to make you wary of me." The darker blonde-haired woman gave a polite smile.

"Oh… no… I didn't mean to complain…" Jean glanced at Diluc, but his steely expression made her even more confused.

"It is alright, Jean, Adelinde should know how to behave." Diluc's stare at his Head Maid was rather absolute, but the woman receiving the stern warning merely had a friendly smile and very faintly raised her shoulder.

It appeared Adelinde did not much care for her master's warning.

Of course, she probably didn't have to, after all, Adelinde was Diluc's long term lover. The thought made Jean only smile tightly at the two before her as she convinced herself further that she will pay it no heed.

Whatever Diluc and Adelinde's relationship is– it is none of her business.

~.~.~.~.~.~

Adelinde became a rather frequent third wheel.

So much so, that there were times whenever Jean and Diluc were so close to locking lips, she'd pop up out of nowhere.

Today was no exception.

"Master Diluc." Adelinde's voice came out of nowhere. Diluc instantly took a step back as if caught red-handed by his father. Jean's head turned to where the voice came from and Adelinde was there with a tense smile and the picnic basket that she always brought with her.

"It's a good thing I was not held up at the mansion." Adelinde smiled again. "I hope you two are hungry. I prepared nutritious snacks this time– and a meal if you so wish."

Jean felt Diluc's fingers flinch against her spine as he twitched a smile at Adelinde and pulled away from the young Gunnhildr lady.

"I must say, your timing seems to be rather impeccable." Diluc's annoyance could not be completely hidden to Jean's surprise.

"Oh, Master Diluc, you tease." Adelinde's smile was nothing but friendly. But ultimately Diluc grumbled as he glared at her briefly and crossed his arms as he took a few more steps away from Jean.

This made Jean fully aware of where he would side if Adelinde and she were to argue– Diluc would side with his Head Maid.

Jean's smile was friendly, days of exposure to Adelinde and Diluc's dynamic had made her understand her place.

"I am surprised that you didn't come with Diluc, Adelinde." Jean asked amicably.

Adelinde glanced at her red-haired boss, "Well, Master Diluc asked me to do a multitude of things." Jean noticed the slight tension in the other woman's voice. But she does not ask about it. Something Jean was certain that Adelinde found convenient. Jean at least was certain that Diluc must find it convenient that she never pried on Diluc or Adelinde's double meanings whenever they were talking to one another.

"Oh? Are you complaining, Adelinde?" Diluc's stare was rather cold but Adelinde merely smiled, unfazed.

"I'm just glad I got here on time," Adelinde said and Jean couldn't help but brush a quick gaze at Adelinde wondering in that brief moment what the Head Maid was implying. "You two must be very hungry," Adelinde added and Jean blinked thinking about her stomach.

"Well, yes… so you arrived at the perfect time." Jean blushed a little as her stomach grumbled.

Adelinde frowned as she looked at Diluc, "Master Diluc, I hope you did not tire the Lady."

Before Diluc could answer, Jean spoke, "This is our arrangement, he should be tiring me or it would not be proper training."

Adelinde smiled and glanced between the two, "In that case, Master Jean, please give me a moment and I shall set the blanket and bring the food out." She gave a little bow as Jean hummed a response.

Diluc's arms were crossed over his chest, "You are doing very well, Jean." But his gaze was on Adelinde as she prepared the things, and Jean followed the direction of his eyes.

"Thank you, my trainer is rather superb." Jean smiled faintly.

There was this awkwardness that had developed between Jean and Diluc since Adelinde started visiting them. Even when Adelinde would not be around, there was this thicker line of hesitation between Diluc and Jean now. But most times, when they were alone and without Adelinde's presence, the awkwardness could be overlooked.

But these are observations that Jean could not focus on. She cannot allow herself to mull over these details. But maybe, at least, just for now, especially when another blonde is in their presence that seemed to influence her red-haired companion.

Jean won't think about the details.

"Master Diluc is talented, despite the rumors." Adelinde reaffirmed. "I think you are the most aware of it, Master Jean."

Jean merely smiled, at Adelinde's words Jean thought of all the training she had received from Diluc. And she couldn't help but agree– that Diluc was indeed talented. His movements, fluidity, and expertise– things that did not add up to how he was rumored to be– were a waste to be given a vision.

Jean's grey eyes landed on the red locks of the man she was thinking of. And to her, he was a big enigma that she could not understand.

And it just got worse since Adelinde started joining them. She returned her gaze to the other blonde woman in Diluc's life.

This time it was Diluc who stared at Jean momentarily. And then Jean suddenly rushed to Adelinde and dropped to her knees as she caught something that almost hit Adelinde.

"Woah! Be careful." Jean sighed as she pulled away the silver knife that almost sliced Adelinde.

Diluc's hand visibly twitched but he merely closed his palm to restrain himself. Adelinde and Diluc's shared a glance at one another briefly. Then Adelinde's green eyes landed on Jean, a hand placed over Jean's hand that held the knife.

Jean's brow twitched this time, fighting the impulse to draw her brows together as Adelinde said, "I am grateful for your care, Master Jean."

Jean struggled to smile, Adelinde had calloused hands, almost like Diluc's– hands that held a weapon. Jean then smiled wider– what was she thinking Adelinde is the Head Maid, of course, it is natural for her to have calloused hands from all her chores.

Why would she assume that Adelinde had the hands of someone who wields a weapon?

But… she had healed many warriors and fighters; those calluses were similar to someone who held a hilted weapon for years– Jean forcibly stopped her train of thought.

She was likely overthinking things– trying to find some reason and explanation why Adelinde was here– what her relationship with Diluc really was– but Jean knows what her relationship with Diluc was.

Adelinde was the famed longtime lover of Diluc to whom she cannot compare to. And that was a comfort, it meant that Jean's rationality would not be compromised with whatever feelings or affection Jean and Diluc shared. Even when he confused her so much.

Adelinde was a good thing in her life.

"No, how could I let you get hurt when I could have stopped it?" Jean smiled, truly meaning her words. Her doubts disappeared from her mind.

Diluc visibly frowned and gave Adelinde a disapproving look, the woman in the maid outfit pretending not to notice his expression.

"It is my honor to be able to serve a kind Mistress like you." Adelinde bowed her head. And Diluc cleared his throat, glancing away from the two women with a fist against his lips.

Jean turned to glance at him and frowned, then turned to look at Adelinde again, "Do you have water for Diluc?"

Adelinde smiled warmly, "It brings me joy to see you worry for Master Diluc." Her hand reached for a container and poured water into a cup.

"Oh, that…" Jean wasn't quite sure how to reply to Adelinde's statement, but she watched her pour the water.

"You don't have to say anything, Master Jean, but we all worry for him." A faint smile from the Head Maid and another cough came out from Diluc.

Jean picked the cup up and offered it to Diluc, "Just drink the water."

Diluc's eyes were shifty as he accepted the cup, he cleared his throat again, his fingers brushing Jean's and their eyes met.

A second passed and then a third, that was when Adelinde cleared her throat and Diluc flinched as he grabbed the water from Jean and turned slightly, mumbling thanks.

Diluc and Adelinde shared a glance at each other with Adelinde giving her employer a very tight smile.

Jean really didn't know where her place was at that moment. And perhaps she never would.

~.~.~.~.~.~

Diluc and Jean hadn't seen each other for only a few days but the man was kissing her like he hadn't seen her for months. At least, that was what Jean was feeling at the moment, not that she was complaining.

On the emerald grass near Sumeru and Liyue, where the couple stood.

Jean gasped to take another breath, "Wait– what about Adelinde?"

Diluc captured her lips again and she reciprocated the kisses until they had to take another breath, "Don't worry about her." His hand found her thigh. "She has been rather pesky lately." He whispered to her.

Jean wanted to point out that he was the one who brought Adelinde to their sessions, so for him to complain was rather– her train of thought was cut when she realized his hands were palming her even more intensely than usual.

"Wa-wait, what if someone sees–" Jean tried to push him and for a second he did not respond, then all his activities stopped.

"Fuck." He swore, cleared his throat, and pulled away. He smiled tightly at Jean and kept his distance.

As Jean studied the red-haired heir of Dawn Winery, it seemed like whatever passionate desire he had for her seized to exist. And admittedly, it tore her a little.

He cleared his throat, "The book you read, I kind of skimmed through it– a fascinating tale."

She wasn't sure what to feel. She should tease him for reading the book, but– "I wasn't telling you to stop."

The air in Diluc's lungs seemed to have been knocked out of him by those words. He gulped, "Don't– you didn't need to say that, Jean."

"But it is the truth." She looked him in the eyes, the hurt clear on those beautiful irises that Diluc was enamored by.

"Jean. Don't." His voice was shaky as he did his best to look away.

"Why?" She gently touched his wrist and his eyes flicked back to look at those silver eyes. She could see that it seemed like he was wrangling his desire for her in those red eyes that were staring back at her.

"Don't invite me to ravage you." He said in the softest whisper that to Jean his response was the true invitation.

Maybe she wanted to be ravaged.

She took a step forward, their lips terribly close to one another again, "What if I want you to?"

Jean observed Diluc's Adam's apple bob a little and before she could hear his possible chiding on her actions and words, she kissed the man and pulled him to her by the back of his neck, deepening the kiss– taking advantage of his surprise to kiss him passionately.

Jean was after all, a smart woman.

Jean knew that she sounded rather unreasonable at first telling him to stop and then now asking to do more. It was just that– the two of them were level-headed people– and they wouldn't have risked their agreement the way they had been doing if their minds were at the right place. And– in all honesty– she wanted to confirm if he wanted to make their relationship more.

But with how he reacted– it seemed clear what he wanted– keep within the agreement but with just some added benefits.

At least this was her educated guess.

Perhaps that was why she had not heard of Diluc's latest conquest. It was because he was too busy trying to conquer her.

And the bold blonde woman pulled away, there was a thin line on Jean's lips. Diluc's eyes were locked on her pink lips.

His thumb pressed and brushed her lips, he was clearly in deep thought and she observed him quietly.

If this was just another one of his games, Jean knew she wouldn't mind. Because when this ends, she can just go with her life as per the deal. She'd live a free woman with his name attached to hers. And they wouldn't bat an eye to the other's endeavors.

Maybe she'd even be on the opposite side of Teyvat by then.

And when that happens, she believed, at the very least, she'd have this moment to look back to and be grateful for.

All romances were fleeting. This was no exception, she was sure.

Diluc's hand found its way across her back and rested on her waist, pulling her closer, their hips almost touching. But it was clear that he was consciously putting a distance between his certain body parts from her.

Their conversation had totally been forgotten.

Eventually, someone pulled away from the other.

Diluc cupped her face and Jean could tell that he had a lot to say. She cupped his face too and caressed his cheek waiting for his disapproval.

But it never came.

Instead, he said, "I… I will be gone for a while; I don't know for how long…"

Jean nodded and smiled faintly, she wanted to ask him where he'd be. Or if he was saying this because of what she had just said. Like maybe, he wanted to keep his distance from her. And he likely is. Because to Jean, he is always keeping a certain distance from her.

Even when they have already been sharing saliva for weeks.

Jean could never figure him out.

But like always, she didn't say her thoughts aloud because she knew where she stood. She nodded again, "I understand, please be safe."

Time would always flow, no matter how much one wanted it to freeze. They understood this clearly. After all, you can't hold onto water too.

~.~.~.~.~.~

Near the border of Sumeru in Liyue was where Jean was standing, waiting for Diluc. She suddenly received a message that he had returned early and would like to resume her training. But they hadn't seen each other for a while. Almost two weeks. She didn't even know where he was or if he was alive.

But this wasn't new to her, it seemed that he had developed this new pattern.

Before, when he'd disappear it didn't really matter, but now– she didn't know why she was feeling so anxious. Maybe because Klaus' party was getting closer and she was even more swamped with preparations. Or maybe it was something else– like how their last meeting ended and what she had said.

Jean was certain that the reason he abruptly told her that he would be away was because of what she had told him. In some sense, she was worried that the next time they met he would call everything off.

Maybe that was why she was anxious.

The next moment a hand reached out for her, she noticed the fingers coming from behind her and before she could react, she was turned by the person. And before Jean could use the defensive skills Diluc taught her she was locking lips with the man.

That was when the familiar smell enveloped her, and those familiar lips.

The hand that she had raised to defend herself rested on his firm chest. And her other hand found his red hair as she gripped the back of his neck.

Jean kissed him back as his hands started roaming around her body. It was like he was memorizing her curves. His hands had shifted to glide over her ribcage and then he stopped.

She was convinced he'd touch her breasts, but he did not. He pulled away and studied her face. And the look in his eyes and face made her hold her breath for a moment.

"I don't know why, but I missed you so much." He whispered, one hand on the small of her back while his other hand traced the curve of her upper spine.

Jean exhaled.

And then she inhaled, aside from his scent entering her lungs, his lips laid claim on her lips again. Their tongues danced against one another.

He pulled her closer, her chest against his.

And all she could think of was how perfectly their bodies and lips fit together.

And then someone cleared their throat, and it clearly was not Jean nor Diluc.

Jean's eyes were wide, thinking that the charade was up, but Diluc looked calm. He pulled away and sighed softly.

"I am sorry for disturbing you, Master Jean," It was Adelinde's voice and Jean turned to the Head Maid. Diluc briefly closed his eyes and sighed softly again. "Master Diluc." Adelinde added in a greeting tone.

"My apologies, I really did not want to disturb you, but…I must speak with you briefly, Master Diluc." Adelinde smiled. That was when Jean noticed that Adelinde was not carrying her usual basket when she would accompany them.

Jean turned to look at Diluc. The confusion in her face was clear but the two did not address it. She knew he would not clear anything up for her anyways.

Another sigh from Diluc, "Alright." And he completely pulled away from Jean and walked towards his Head Maid.

To say that Jean did not feel upset seeing Diluc walk slowly to Adelinde would be a lie. But she could not say anything. Her feelings would be something that she would carry to her grave if she had to.

When Diluc got to Adelinde's side, the two further walked away. Jean's lips were in a tight line as she too turned and helped put a bigger distance between them. She knew very well when her presence was not welcomed.

Jean stood under the shade of a tree observing the two.

Diluc and Adelinde were awfully too close to each other's lips. And their bodies were bent too close to one another. Their lips barely moved but it was clear that their discussion was heated. They tried to look as neutral as they could, but there were moments wherein either one of them would visibly show their anger or annoyance.

Jean wasn't so sure from this distance.

But it was clear that what they were discussing was not for her eyes or ears. And she also thought that this scene was awfully familiar. She had seen this scene before, more or less.

She also wondered if they were arguing because of her. If anything, Jean was the other woman in Diluc and Adelinde's relationship. Maybe the Head Maid finally snapped. At least, that was all she could really assume.

Maybe even trouble at Dawn Winery?

She really couldn't guess what the two were discussing, but it was also not her problem.

Diluc suddenly turned toward Jean and stalked toward her but the anger and conflict were so very clear in his expression. Adelinde remained where she was.

When Diluc was a few meters away from Jean he announced, "I'm sorry, I have to go."

Grey eyes couldn't help but glance at the woman over Diluc's shoulder many meters away.

"Oh." She simply responded. "I understand."

Diluc's expression was blank and Jean wasn't sure what he was thinking.

"I will send a letter when our next meeting will be and where." He added and she nodded.

There was silence as they stared at one another, eventually, he turned.

There was really nothing left to say. Between Adelinde and Jean.

It seemed he would pick his Head Maid.

But this was preferable for Jean Gunnhildr.

Author's Notes:

I know it's been almost a year, I hope you guys hated Diluc, because if not, then I didn't do a good job writing.

And regarding the poll, it was 50-50 if I should make a summary or not, but I will post it as a different story. I won't promise that I will be able to post that anytime soon.

I hope you guys liked this.