Chapter 15: Two Years Later, Entering the Social Circle.

Two years have passed since I married Cedric.

As for my own growth, I can’t boast much.
My water magic has improved, and I can read ledgers now—that’s about it.

Cedric, on the other hand, has transformed.
When we met at fifteen, we were eye-level, his hands delicate, his voice boyish.

Now, at seventeen, I look up to him.
His shoulders are broader, his Adam’s apple sharper, his voice low and resonant.

His gentle aura remains, but his features are sharper, more defined.

—He’s almost identical to his game portrait now.

Every time I see his face, my heart races.
Watching my favorite grow into his final form daily is bound to make me giddy.

(My favorite, right in front of me… what’s happening?)

Not in 2D, but in full, vivid reality.
Even after living together daily, it feels surreal.

Today, we’re attending a social event together.

For two years, we’ve avoided high society.
With divorce planned next year, I thought appearing as Cedric’s wife might harm his reputation.

My past isn’t exactly glowing.
A noblewoman known for late-night revelry.

If I appeared as the duchess, it could tarnish Cedric’s standing.
I wanted to avoid that.

Cedric wasn’t interested in social events either, so we skipped them for two years.

But this time is different.
The Gilbert ducal house is hosting a party.

As the son and daughter-in-law, we have to attend.
No excuse to decline.

Duke Gorn himself ordered us to attend.
It was a command.

So now, I’m dressed in a social gown, waiting for Cedric at the entrance.

It’s my first time in such a dress in ages.

Provided by the ducal house, it’s extravagant.
A deep crimson gown, modestly open at the chest, with sheer silk sleeves.

The waist is cinched, the skirt flares wide.
Gold embroidery adorns the hem, studded with gems.

My hair is pinned up, crowned with a small tiara.
A delicate necklace and small earrings complete the look.

In the mirror, I looked like a different person.
The old Amelia, before I regained my game memories, wore such outfits regularly.

But wearing one now, after so long, makes me nervous.
It’s heavy, stifling.
Yet, I think it’s beautiful.

There’s one more thing making me nervous.
Dancing with Cedric.

In high society, couples dance together—it’s customary.
We’ve practiced dancing before.

But this is the real thing.
Dancing with my favorite.

That alone sends my heart racing.

As I think this, Cedric arrives, saying, “Sorry to keep you waiting.”

He descends the stairs.
The moment I see him, I catch my breath.

He’s dressed impeccably.
A black tailcoat, white shirt.

Silver embroidery on his chest, a small gem at the collar.
His pale gold hair, neatly styled, reflects the light.

His blue eyes meet mine.

From boy to young man, Cedric’s dressed-up form is breathtakingly cool.

(My favorite is too perfect…!)

No, calm down.
My heart’s pounding wildly.

The excitement surges.
But knowing his game outfit helped temper it slightly.

Familiarity with his appearance helped.
Yet, it’s still a feast for the eyes.

The game’s screen can’t compare to reality.
The resolution, texture, presence—all different.

As I muse, I notice Cedric’s cheeks flush, his eyes widening.
What’s wrong?

I approach.

“Cedric, are you okay?”

Concerned, I reach out, touching his cheek to check for fever.
Warm, but not feverish.

He startles, taking my hand.

“Sorry.”

He smiles, a bit shy.

“You’re so beautiful, Amelia, I was captivated.”

My heart leaps, thudding loudly.
My face burns.

I didn’t expect such a direct compliment.

“T-Thank you…”

I mumble, embarrassed, looking away before continuing.

“You’re very handsome too, Cedric.”

Honest words.
Truly, he’s stunning.
The cute boy has grown so much.

It’s natural, and I knew this form from the game.
But it’s still moving.

He tilts his head slightly.

“Not cute?”

“What?”

I look at him, surprised.
He smiles.

“I’m happy to be called cute by you, but has ‘handsome’ surpassed ‘cute’?”

I recall a moment over a year ago.
During magic practice, I called him cute.

He said, “Cute isn’t thrilling. I’ll work to be called handsome someday.”

He remembered that?

I chuckle.

“Yes, you’re handsome.”

I say, laughing.
Truly handsome.

The boyish traces are nearly gone; he’s a splendid young man.

Cedric smiles, delighted.

“I’m glad.”

He pulls my hand gently, pressing his lips to its back.

A soft touch.
The gesture is so beautiful, I’m mesmerized.

Flawless etiquette, like a painting.

Then, my heart races belatedly.
Thudding loudly.
My face, ears—hot.

My favorite just kissed my hand…

Too perfect, I can’t handle it…!

But I keep my face neutral.
Stay calm.

That’s the fangirl’s resolve… probably.

Cedric stands, still holding my hand.

“Let’s go.”

He escorts me gently, offering his arm.
I place my hand on it.

“Yes.”

I reply, suppressing my racing heart, striving for calm.

Calm down, me.
It’s just a social event.

Just going with my favorite.

—No, I can’t calm down at all.

It’s like a date with my favorite.
No, not a date.

It’s duty.
Ducal family duty.

Convincing myself, we head to the carriage.