Chapter 108

She gathered her scattered samples and arranged them neatly on the table, her thoughts already swirling with possibilities. Then, glancing at the clock, her eyes widened in surprise.

“Huuk— How did it get so late?”

Hurriedly gathering her things, Evelyn made her way to the city square with her escort knight at her side.

︵‿୨ ₊‧꒰ა ཐི༏ཋྀ ໒꒱ ˚₊ ୧‿︵

The square was overflowing with people, all eager to catch a glimpse of the grand festivities. With the crowds packed so tightly there was no hope of moving forward, Gideon wore a faintly exasperated expression.

“My lady, there are far too many people out today.”

“Of course there are! Today marks the opening of the Dessert Fair.”

It was no exaggeration to say that every self-proclaimed bread lover in the empire had gathered for the event. With all the most famous bakeries from across the realm assembled in one place, today was a rare chance to embark on a true ‘dessert pilgrimage.’

Evelyn herself had counted down the days, eager for this very moment.

Today, I’ll conquer every dessert stall!

Her eyes sparkled with anticipation, while Gideon, helpless to stop her, merely shook his head in defeat.

“If the marchioness finds out, I fear she’ll be beside herself.”

“Ahem, well, I can’t exactly disagree with you there.”

The Marchioness of Inevasel had always wished to take her daughter to art exhibitions, hoping to cultivate her appreciation for the finer things. Yet here she was, embarking on a pastry pilgrimage instead. If her mother ever found out, she could only imagine her disbelief.

‘I’ll have to bring home a box of the best desserts to make it up to her.’

With her resolve set, Evelyn scanned the market stalls with the sharp eyes of a hawk. Before long, she spotted a tray of mouthwatering confections and called out in an eager voice.

“Sir, over here… Huh?”

To her dismay, the escort knight who had been at her side only moments ago was nowhere to be found. The crowd in the square had swelled even further, and somewhere in the commotion, she’d lost sight of him.

Ugh, I can already hear his lecture ringing in my ears.

Uneasy at the prospect of a scolding later, Evelyn quickly glanced about, searching for any sign of him.

‘I should probably try to find him myself.’

Standing here hoping to run into her escort was unlikely to work, not with so many people jostling for space in the heart of the square. The chances of missing each other entirely were far too high.

‘No, the only way is to look for him myself.’

Decision made, she set her sights on the dessert café she visited most often. If she knew Gideon, he’d likely anticipate her next move and wait for her there. Besides, in such a bustling street, there was little chance of anyone causing trouble.

At least, I hoped so…?

Still, she couldn’t quite shake the tension that lingered in her chest. After the recent incident at the hunting festival, cold sweat prickled at her skin. Maybe it would be better to return to the carriage after all, she thought, just as she began to turn away—

“That’s right, everyone! Our special sale begins now!”

As a vendor announced their discount with a magical amplifier, the crowd nearby surged toward the stall like a breaking wave. Swept along before she could gather her wits, Evelyn found herself caught in the rush.

Just as she was about to lose her balance and fall, someone’s hand caught her shoulder, steadying her.

Saved from stumbling, Evelyn quickly turned to the figure, whose features were hidden beneath the shadow of a pressed-down hood.

“Thank you for your help.”

In that instant, a cool hint of musk drifted to her nose, making her emerald eyes widen in recognition.

This scent… surely…

“Duke Rikeran?”

Khalid, lowering his hood just enough to reveal an awkward smile, pressed a finger lightly to his lips.

“Khalid will suffice.”

Clearly, he wished to avoid drawing attention in such a crowded place.

Even though the encounter with the protagonist had come rather suddenly, the chaos of the moment made her all the more glad to see a familiar face. She nodded, replying in a hushed voice.

“Then please, call me Evelyn as well!”

She flashed him a proud, cheerful smile, and for a moment, his blue eyes seemed to waver.

Hm? Why that reaction?

At last, despite the warmth in his gaze, Khalid gently declined.

“I’m afraid that wouldn’t be a good idea.”

“Pardon? Why not?”

He watched her for a moment, his head tilted in quiet contemplation, before he murmured in a voice so low it barely reached her ears.

“Because I think I’d only want more.”