Towards the Winter Cabin of Serenity and Madness, Cinderella Runs - Chapter 133
In the hour when the owl hooted, Kyden returned. Roel, who had been dozing off in an uncomfortable position at the table with a single candle lit, lifted her head at the sound of footsteps.
“Were you sleeping?”
“I was going to sleep after seeing you come in.”
Rubbing her eyes, still half-asleep, Roel noticed the faint smell of alcohol on Kyden. He had a pleasant smile as he approached. Her eyes widened slightly as she took him in.
He was dressed in a tailored suit. While she had seen him in armor numerous times, this was the first time she had seen him in formal wear.
The black suit, embroidered with gold patterns on the chest and sleeves, suited him remarkably well. Combined with his tall stature, he emanated authority and dignity.
“Did something good happen?”
“Of course.”
He picked Roel up and carried her towards the bed, playfully placing her on his lap as he chuckled.
“What is it?”
“I received my fief.”
Not just any land, but the very land he had wanted to manage. There had been no opposition, as it was located near areas that had previously seen conflict, making it undesirable for most.
Those who had envied Kyden whispered among themselves, saying that even as a Count’s subordinate, he couldn’t secure good land. But that land was the very place Kyden had requested. He had long wanted it.
Though he wanted to rush over and share this news with Roel, he was caught up in toasts and celebratory drinks from those wanting to congratulate him.
“So, are we leaving soon?”
“Yes. We need to go to our home.”
“Our home…”
Roel repeated the words in her mind. As she reflected on that term, her heart raced with a mix of excitement and nervousness. It had been so long since she had heard that phrase. After her father’s passing, she had no real home.
She had been a temporary inhabitant, a stranger. Like dust drifting aimlessly, unable to settle anywhere.
Whether living with relatives, staying in the cabin, or residing in the capital, she had never been able to feel at home. Perhaps that was why her nose tinged with emotion.
Now, she had a place to call home.
“Let’s go to our home.”
Roel spoke, holding back her breath. It was the home she had longed for, a place where she could finally rest her weary body.
“Right.”
As Roel nodded eagerly, Kyden’s eyes softened. A wave of mischievous satisfaction rippled through his heart.
When hunting, one must avoid making noise. If the target detects movement, it is essential to lure them to a dead end or a trap.
Now, Roel was firmly in his grasp. He was going to take her to a place from which she could not escape.
* * *
The carriage came to a stop in front of the inn. Before long, Kyden came out, carrying a load of items in both hands. His long strides made him appear to be several steps ahead of Roel. She hurriedly followed, almost running, but in her eagerness, she stumbled.
She bumped into his back, burying her face against him.
“Be careful.”
“Yes.”
Roel nodded, rubbing her forehead. After loading the carriage, Kyden took her hand. His escorting movements were as concise and natural as a knight’s, making her heart race.
‘It’s just a change of clothes…’
He looked like a different person. Kyden had always sported a scruffy beard and a rough appearance, but he was becoming increasingly handsome, to the point where it was hard to look away.
In fact, an inn employee was watching from a distance, stretching her neck to get a better view. She pursed her lips and repeatedly exclaimed, “Oh!” in admiration.
When she caught Roel’s eye, she waved enthusiastically.
“Come again! You two look great together!”
Roel smiled shyly at the bright greeting, bowing her head slightly before getting into the carriage.
Where were they going this time? Roel felt a mix of excitement and anticipation. The journey with Kyden didn’t scare her.
What would the scenery of the village be like? Would there be a stream where children played? Would there be shady trees where old folks rested? Would there be vast meadows with starlit skies and grazing sheep? She hoped the locals would be as kind as those here.
The carriage headed straight for the Count’s Castle.
In front of the castle, two knights ready to escort Kyden, four servants, and several soldiers awaited him. While a small military presence was necessary to manage the locals, the number of people was more than he had anticipated. In fact, since the conflict had ended a while ago, such a large force was no longer needed.
There was also the contingent provided by Serley, along with the help of Jared, who had contributed additional servants and soldiers.
Kyden had tried to avoid relying on his father. He feared that receiving his support might lead to complications regarding the marriage issue.
