That Lady’s Stalker - Chapter 21
It was a man from the Barthan family, notorious for spreading rumors about Asher, with no regard for honor.
A man without any real abilities had managed to wedge himself into the position of Deputy commander.
Olivia didn’t hide her displeasure.
“Well, you see, since Lord is watching this with me, it doesn’t matter that Asher has black hair.”
“Lord?”
Referring to the Deputy commander by ‘Lord’ was certainly disrespectful, but Olivia continued as if she hadn’t noticed.
“How can someone be so handsome? It’s like God crafted him with care.”
“Ha! Just looking at the shell… you’d better come to your senses. Staying that close could lead to misfortune…”
“What a load of nonsense.”
“What did you just say…?”
The man from the Barthan family looked bewildered. He never expected to hear such crude language from Olivia, who was renowned for her elegance and beauty.
Olivia let out a deep, exaggerated sigh as if the ground had opened up beneath her.
“Black hair is just a shell. To think I have to explain this…”
“I’m just warning you…”
She waved her hand dismissively, as if swatting away a fly. She hoped he would leave before Asher noticed. She wanted him to remain unharmed, and she didn’t want someone like him speaking carelessly about Asher.
“B-llshit.”
Ignoring the man, Olivia got up and headed toward Asher. Unpleasant rumors about him were rampant in high society, but at least in the military, it was said to be different.
The knights who had watched him closely had to respect him. He was not in such a pathetic position to warrant those kinds of comments.
So why did this lowly creature, who seemed more suited to sipping wine and flirting with women at banquets, feel the need to come here and muddy the waters? Was the Barthan family trying to reach even into the Emperor’s army?
Nervously, she bit her lip. She desperately needed Asher’s warmth.
After hearing the unpleasant remarks, Olivia had stayed close to Asher without leaving his side. Most still looked surprised to see them together, but none dared to openly question their relationship. They were far more concerned about Asher’s reaction.
So many had gaped at him, only to quickly back off, noticing the way he held his gaze. It wasn’t his black hair that frightened them, but rather that he was a formidable person—a superior and the highest authority in this place.
Realizing that they looked at Asher’s eyes before they noticed his black hair brought Olivia a sense of satisfaction. Clearly, it was that Barthan man who was the odd one out.
“I’m glad I came to see you.”
“You can come every day, Liv.”
“Is that a promise? You can’t say it’s annoying later.”
Asher held Olivia’s shoulders, looking adorably flustered, his eyes soft and tender.
“I would never say that.”
Their foreheads pressed together, radiating warmth. Lost in sweet feelings, Olivia wrapped her arms around Asher’s neck. A gasp echoed from somewhere, but she didn’t care.
She simply adored this man. Boldly, she captured Asher’s lips.
* * *
The sky was a brilliant blue, with huge clouds that seemed too big to be obscured by outstretched hands. The blazing white sun beat down, marking the height of summer.
Olivia breathed in the warm, grassy scent that rose from the ground as she stretched her hands towards the sky, as if the gentle clouds were within reach.
“It’s hot. Come here.”
Peeking out from under the parasol, Olivia found herself being pulled beneath it.
“You’re already sweating.”
Noticing the droplets forming on Olivia’s nose, Asher began to fan her. A sudden gust of wind whipped through, sending her long hair flying in all directions. She opened her mouth in shock as the wind struck her face. What a force…
“Asher, Asher! Just a little gentler…”
The once-violent breeze turned into a soft, pleasant caress. With a gentle laugh, Olivia laid her head on Asher’s thigh. His leg was solid and firm, without a hint of softness, but that was okay. He was Asher.
“I love you.”
She felt his body stiffen. Looking up, she saw his face flush. He shyly covered his mouth with the hand that wasn’t holding the fan. Yet, he continued to fan her, which made him even more lovely.
Since hearing Oliver’s words, Olivia had become more contemplative. There wasn’t much she could do for Asher. The only thing she could offer him was,
“I love you.”
Just giving him love. You are loved. I love you, your brother loves you, your late mother loved you, and so does Oliver. No one can hurt you.
“…I love you too, Liv.”
You are not alone.
Asher flashed Olivia the happiest smile, a response to her love. Ever since that day when she first told him she loved him, he had always smiled back, embarrassed but delighted, never missing a single occasion.
Olivia felt happiness bloom within her. The more he smiled, and the longer they spent together, the happier she became. Even though he had been going to the conflict zones more frequently, it didn’t matter. She loved fiercely, and she received that love in return.
That was enough.
