Evening light poured through the windows, painting the restaurant in hues of molten gold and amber. The sunset draped everything in warmth—including the man seated across from me.
"...Did I hear you correctly? You wish to reserve a magic seal?"
Edwin laughed softly, as though I had told an amusing jest. I smoothed the skirt of my ivory dress and met his gaze with a smile.
"You heard perfectly well."
A flicker of genuine surprise crossed Edwin's features—a rare sight from a man who was always so composed. Normally, such moments invited mischief from me. I delighted in catching him off guard, in watching that elegant mask slip ever so slightly.
But today was different.
I had expected joy. Overwhelming, breathless joy—the same expression he had worn yesterday when he learned about the mine.
The White Crystal Mine was his mother's memento. Lowell's treasure. Something he had desperately wished to recover.
I swallowed my disappointment and pressed on, keeping my voice steady.
"Allow me to explain precisely. By placing a reservation on the magic seal, on the day of our marriage, the White Crystal Mine will automatically transfer to joint ownership between the Grand Duke and his wife. It's an ancient practice—one the royal families used during formal betrothals."
This method had appeared in the same old texts as the "one-year grace period"—the very clause that had delayed our union. I turned slightly to glance at Bethany, who stood behind me with her hands clasped.
"...Of course, Bethany—the Wizard of the North—will need to assist with the enchantment."
"If it's something you desire, I am more than willing."
Bethany's smile was bright and immediate. Exactly the reaction I had anticipated. A small measure of relief washed over me.
But when I turned back to Edwin, his expression remained unchanged. No smile. No joy.
Bethany's eyes darted between us, her gaze clearly urging: Just accept it already.
I blinked, momentarily confused. My finger lifted to point at myself.
A dress. Jewelry. A place to return to. It was I who had only ever received from him.
"I don't understand what you mean."
"The White Crystal Mine belongs to you, Olivia. You don't need to transfer it to me so easily—or rush to make it joint ownership."
His voice was soft, almost pleading.
"...It is entirely yours."
Your complete share. The things I always wanted to give you.
In that moment, I glimpsed just a fragment of what lay within Edwin's heart.
I bit my lip.
I had planned to wait. To confess only after Jeniv Street was complete.
I hadn't known I was this impatient.
But the feelings rising within me refused to be contained any longer.
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