A Governess’s Wish for a Quiet Life

Dianne Ortenza, valedictorian of a prestigious girls’ academy,
chose to earn her own living over entering the marriage market without a dowry.
Had her life continued on that path, she may never have found love, but she would have had stability.

‘You will tutor the imperial princess who is soon to be wed to Arathos.’
One day, she was given an imperial decree she couldn’t refuse, just as she was being recognized as a skilled governess.

“I will never marry the crown prince of an enemy nation!”
But the princess not only rejected the engagement but refused to attend lessons as well.

“Don’t you think we make a rather good team?”
“Pardon?! I-I could never, not with Your Majesty…!”
In her desperate search for a way forward, Dianne found herself growing closer to a man she never imagined possible…

Could she still hold on to her dream of a peaceful life?

* * *

“Just for a moment, could we set aside our roles as emperor and governess and simply be Rezion and Dianne?”
“…You’re asking me to stop pretending to be a gentleman?”

His expression hardened, as if she’d told him something she shouldn’t have.

“If you knew what runs through my mind when I look at you… you’d never say such a thing.”

Before she could even feel confused by his low, smoldering voice, he stepped forward.

And kissed her, for the very first time.