Chapter 30: Unexpected Encounters and Confessions

“At least it’s better to be certain than to live with everlasting regrets. Since we’re at it, let’s also confirm our paternity.”

‘What on earth are you talking about…?’

Lara wanted to ask, though she held back, knowing he was referring to paternity confirmation even before understanding what it really meant.

“I’m sure it’ll hit you when we go to sleep tonight. This stuff really drives a person crazy. A clean verdict is the best, don’t you think?”

It was Elina II after all. Her impressive ability to win hearts had softened even the coldest villainess. As the two women cheeredfully boarded the carriage for the courthouse, Lara stepped outside to see them off.

‘But it sure does get interesting… just like those courtroom dramas…’

Lara decided to look on the bright side for the sake of her own sanity.

***

The park bathed in sunset was breathtaking. The intense vermilion blended with a pale purple at the fountain, evoking the feel of a masterpiece. Mesmerized, Lara turned her head at the rustling sound from the bushes.

“Sorry about that. Am I too late?”

Today, as always, the man’s deep maroon hair clashed with his forehead, while his round glasses perched on his prominent nose. Familiar with his appearance, Lara couldn’t help but smile warmly.

“No, you arrived right on time. Besides, you’re not taking the usual route, are you?”

“This path works perfectly for dodging prying eyes.”

“Yeah, sure. But do try to remove a few leaves while you’re at it.”

He still clung to stray leaves on his shoulders and tousled hair. Lara raised a finger to precisely point out each sticking leaf.

“There, a bit higher up.”

“You mean here…?”

“No, shift a little more to the left.”

“Here? Nothing’s coming off.”

“Phew…”

With a deep sigh, Lara raised her hand. Just as her fingertip brushed against a leaf clinging to his dark purple hair, he abruptly inhaled so sharply that even she could hear, stepping back in surprise.

“…What’s the matter? I was just trying to help.”

“…Never mind. I’ve got it.”

Then he began raking his hair back by himself. Lara squinted, thoroughly scrutinizing his face, yet his round glasses kept his emotions inscrutable.

“By the way, how much did you get to read?”

“Ah…! I got as far as the part where Lilica was tied up with a rope in danger, and Lord Robes came over to untie her, only to end up stealing a kiss when he caught sight of her alluring figure.”

“Isn’t that part absolutely brilliant?”

“I nearly choked reading it. I don’t usually read Fan Comics, but I collect Yuri’s editions. Yuri is something special – calm yet so intensely piercing into the soul.”

“I think I get it! Haah.”

“Haah, haah.”

Passersby made way for the two, whose warm breaths filled the air as they strolled along.

Chatting about Fan Comics, the pair soon entered a residential district. True to an aristocratic avenue, the landscaping was exquisite. As Lara wandered, her gaze locked on a bed of white roses in a flowerbed, her eyes widening.

“Erodis’ Flower!”

“Erodis’ Flower!”

They exclaimed almost simultaneously, and Lara and Rahi exchanged shy smiles. It was comforting to be among fellow enthusiasts of the same genre.

Yet seeing the white roses, Lara couldn’t help but recall wilted roses, leaving her with a bittersweet taste.

“Not long ago, I received white roses as a gift from some dashing gentleman – a refined Lord Robes type. He’s about your build, Rahi, and he’s always seen wearing that signature robe. I’ve never heard his voice, though. Do you know who he is?”

“…Ah, no? I haven’t heard of him before. What’s this about?”

“I happened upon him by chance, and he gave me the roses. We enthusiasts can immediately tell when a rose is a sealed rose, can’t we?”

Lara glanced down at her feet as she continued.

“I felt a strange joy. I didn’t know his name or face, but for a moment, I felt understood.”

“Did you really like the flower that much?”

“Of course. But it’s sadly getting crushed in these books and now wilting… I even had a gardener try to revive it, but they were helpless.”

“That’s unfortunate.”

Lara only nodded slightly. Watching her downcast friend, Rahi lifted his head and smiled warmly.

“Over here.”

Following Rahi’s direction, Lara looked straight ahead to find a luxurious mansion. Its light blue roof and neatly maintained garden exuded charm. Passing through the fence and opening the grand door, a long corridor greeted them.

Lara couldn’t help but gasp at the sight: along both sides of the corridor, display cases stretched out, showcasing Magical Girl Lilica figures behind transparent cabinets.

“Isn’t this the one from Suko’s 8th Special Event Auction? And this, the legendary figure that caused a sensation during its limited pre-order sale!”

“Hehe, you shouldn’t be so surprised.”

Rahi, amused by Lara’s flustered state, opened another door at the corridor’s end. Lara’s jaw dropped at what she saw inside.

The room was entirely dedicated to Lilica – from the wallcovering to the Lilica bedspread, Lilica Dakimakura, a Lilica life-size figure, Lilica cosplay outfits, and other Lilica merchandise.

“This is Lilica’s room.”

“That means…?”

“Hehe, there’s even a Lord Robes room.”

“…?!”

“Oh my, dear God. Lara clutched at him, pleading to be shown around immediately, to which Rahi silently led her into the adjoining room.

As the door swung open, paradise unfolded before them.

“Good heavens…”

Lara sank to her knees. It was magnificent—multiple versions of the Lord Robes Dakimakura beamed radiant smiles at her. Was it truly acceptable to set foot in this sanctuary? As Lara hesitated, a warm hand extended beside her.

“Enjoy this moment.”

“…Oh.”

Taking his hand, Lara staggered to the bed where the Lord Robes Dakimakura lay. It was so comforting. When she looked over to ask if it was alright to lie down, Rahi gave a lazy nod from the doorway.

Slowly, Lara reclined, then wrapped her trembling arms around the smiling Dakimakura. Overwhelmed with emotion, she almost shed tears. In her reverie, a familiar voice whispered in her ear.

“If dinner isn’t served yet, would you like me to take care of it?”

“Really?”

“Absolutely—just leave it all to me. Go relax for a bit.”

With that, he closed the door behind him. A blissful time ensued, with Lara cradling the Dakimakura until a gentle knock snapped her back to reality.

“Dinner’s ready.”

“Alright, I’m coming.”

Though reluctant to part, Lara let go of the Dakimakura with promises of another meeting. Stepping out, she found Rahi waiting.

“Do you live here all alone?”

“Yes. And if there’s anything you wish to read or see, feel free to drop by. I’ll make an exception just for you.”

“Really? Is that so?”

His dreamy tone was as if he were wandering through a reverie.

“Oh, thank you. You’re nothing short of a true devotee and an angel. From now on, I’ll address you with the utmost respect as Rahi.”

“Just call me Rahi, it’s fine.”

Entering a cozy yet stylish dining area connected to the kitchen, Rahi pulled out a chair for Lara.

Bowing her head in quiet gratitude, Lara gazed at the plate before her. It was spaghetti. Her expression turned a bit odd, and then a cautious, deep-toned voice spoke.

“Don’t tell me you dislike spaghetti?”

“Hehe, no… I actually love it! It’s just that I have a bit of a trauma associated with spaghetti.”

“In that case, how about trying a different dish…”

“There’s no need; it looks delicious as it is.”

Draping a napkin elegantly over her dress, Lara picked up a silver fork. Twirling a bite-sized portion of pasta, an enticing aroma teased her senses. Determined not to smudge her lipstick, she savored the spaghetti with a perfectly rounded mouth.

“Mmm—this is exquisite. I’d love to meet the chef of this mansion.”

“I made it myself.”

“Really? Oh my, that’s incredible.”

It was a far cry from what any sibling might cook.

“I’m the only one here, so I often experiment with cooking when I’m bored. This is my first time serving a guest, so I’m relieved it suits your palate.”

“Your culinary skills are superb. I’m truly impressed.”

Though one might expect a hired chef, everything was evidently crafted by his own hands. The immaculate table setting—with pristine white linen, shining silver candle holders cradling golden flickering candles, and even the vase—spoke of meticulous care.

“I never imagined someone so stylish existed. Hehe.”

“Flattery will only make me blush.”

“Compared to me, who can only boil spaghetti, you’re amazing. Feel free to be proud.”

Lara’s small smile was met by a smooth, reciprocal grin from the other side. The conversation fell into a quiet hum as they resumed their meal.

“Do you have someone like Lord Robes in your life?”

Unexpectedly, he asked. In literal terms it meant, ‘Is there someone you love?’ and in that instant, Lara’s mind flashed back to Pea. Shaking off the thought, she calmly countered,

“Then, do you have anyone like Lilica in your life?”

“No one is as enchanting as Lilica. I have no interest in real women.”

“Oh… I guess it was wrong of me to ask.”