An Unexpected Proposal

October 29, 2020

"…Was that the problem?"

"…"

"The reason you rejected me."

Alicia instinctively swallowed. The man staring at her had eyes sharp enough to cut.

"Mikael is just an ordinary child. He always has been, and he always will be. But… in this world, there's always an ‘if’."

Her voice trembled. Even now, she was afraid. What if his piercing gaze turned into a blade aimed at her child?

"I don’t easily go back on my decisions."

"…"

So, nothing had changed after all.

Alicia pulled Mikael—who was sleeping with an innocent expression—closer into her arms. Even if Cabelenus chose to turn his back on Mikael, it wouldn’t change anything. Just as before, she would protect her child alone. But her throat tightened. At some point, without realizing it, she must have harbored some hope.

"I told you, I will do as you wish."

"Ah…"

"I've decided to protect both you and the child. That’s all."

Cabelenus reached out, his calloused hand gently cupping Alicia’s cheek. Careful, as if afraid he might hurt her. His touch was always like that. Alicia hesitated, unsure of what expression to make.

"…I can’t believe you. How could I possibly believe something like that now?"

"Then don’t. Keep doubting me. It doesn’t matter. I’m used to being used and broken."

"…"

Alicia’s pupils wavered. Looking back, she realized—she knew nothing about Cabelenus. She had never truly understood the kind of life he had lived. All she had ever done was vaguely guess. The realization left her speechless.

"I don’t mind."

"…"

"As long as you stay by my side, I truly don’t mind. So, just give me orders."

Whatever you want, I’ll put it in your hands.

Cabelenus’s eyes gleamed strangely. His gaze had always been fixed on her—no matter the moment. Alicia, unable to hold back any longer, crumpled into silent tears.

***

"James. Are you okay?"

"It's just my pride that got hurt. My body’s fine."

James shrugged playfully, but his expression wasn’t as lighthearted as his tone.

"I'm sorry. Because of me—"

"I really don’t want to hear that. This wouldn’t have happened if I hadn’t hesitated in the first place."