NOVEL NEXT Chapter 41.2
Stage 2-10. Welcome To My Room
Sometimes, I dream.
Dreams of a prince who will take me away from this hell, of marrying someone wonderful and building a happy family together.
I know dreaming of something that will never come true only leads to pain.
Still, when I saw him rescue Ms. Lebetzenka from the Crown Prince that day, I couldn’t help but feel envious. Is that weakness in my spirit?
“…I haven’t grown at all.”
I’m trash, a failure, a substitute… There’s no end to the insults hurled at me.
The trauma of having those values forced upon me is something I can’t shake.
Being rejected by others so easily destroys your sense of self.
But, when I make tea, for just a moment, I forget all the intrusive thoughts.
So, when I mistakenly thought I was called for that reason yesterday, I let my anger take over and acted out.
“To think that was just a misunderstanding…”
Ouga-kun really thought the tea I made was “delicious.”
He saw value in my efforts.
I’ve lived a life full of lies, so I can tell when someone’s words are true by looking into their eyes.
It made me so happy, like a part of me was finally recognized.
And that person wanted Reina Milfonty.
It’s always a genius who shatters stagnant situations.
…If it’s Ouga-kun… maybe he could even handle that teacher, that monster…
“…No. I can’t allow myself to hope.”
I shake my head, as if to discard such sweet thoughts.
It took me years to acquire this iron mask to protect myself, and abandoning it now would be meaningless.
Besides, my life… no, my very self will soon disappear from this world.
“…They should be arriving soon.”
I need to switch back.
To my usual self. To the doll-like Reina Milfonty.
I place my finger on my cheek and craft the familiar smile.
As long as I do this, I can wear my mask again.
“Reina!!”
As expected, his voice calls out at the perfect time.
With a red handprint still visible on his cheek, he flings the door open and declares:
“Would you spend the night in my room tonight!?”
“…What?”