I Was a Royal Palace Knight, But I Turned Out to Be an Omega, So I Had to Resign (BL) - Chapter 5

“The Crown Prince, Leonhart Wilhelm Elkrest, has arrived,” announced the chamberlain as the doors opened.

Then, he appeared.

Prince Leon was dressed in formal attire instead of his usual military uniform. His deep navy-blue jacket was tight-fitted, adorned with intricate gold embroidery, and emphasized his well-toned physique.

—Seriously, he looks amazing.

The thought flashed through my mind, and I quickly averted my gaze. What the heck am I even thinking?

My parents stood up immediately, bowing deeply. I hurried to mimic them.

“Apologies for the wait,” Leon’s voice was calm as always, but it sounded a little tense—was it just my imagination?

“No, not at all. We are honored that Your Highness has taken the time to meet with us,” my father replied with utmost courtesy. My mother also bowed deeply.

“Lord and Lady Glantz, I appreciate your coming here. …Cyril,” Leon said my name, his tone shifting ever so slightly. I looked up and met his gaze.

“Your Highness,” I responded, unsure of what to say, my mind a blank.

“I’d like to have a word with Cyril alone. I’ve arranged tea in another room for the two of you. Please allow me this time,” Leon addressed my parents. They seemed briefly surprised but soon nodded deeply.

“Of course, as you wish,” my father said before they were guided out of the room by a servant.

Once the doors closed, an awkward silence settled over the room. Just Leon and me, alone. The atmosphere felt suffocating.

“I thought you wouldn’t come,” Leon said quietly.

“What?”
“I thought you might not come,” he repeated, walking over to the table and sitting down. He gestured for me to take the seat opposite him.

“I couldn’t possibly refuse,” I answered honestly. How could a low-ranking noble like me, especially one who had ended up as an Omega, refuse a summons from a prince?

For a brief moment, Leon’s expression darkened.

“I see… I didn’t intend to force you,” he said in a low voice, as if deep in thought.

“Well, I didn’t feel forced. But realistically, it’s impossible for someone in my position to refuse an invitation from a prince,” I explained, trying to keep it light. But Leon’s expression only grew gloomier. Had I said something wrong?

“…Cyril, I’ll be direct,” he said, fixing me with a serious gaze.

“This is a sham marriage.”
“What?”

The words left my mouth before I could stop them. Sham? What did he mean?

“I’ll explain,” he said, sitting up straight.

“I have no intention of marrying for the foreseeable future. However, my position as Crown Prince brings immense pressure to find a fiancée. This arrangement is a way to ease that burden.”

I nodded slowly, starting to understand.

“So, I’m to be your ‘fake fiancée,’ is that it?”

“Precisely. I’ll ensure you suffer no disadvantages. Moreover, I want you to serve as my personal guard, a position close to that of a knight.”

Something clicked inside me—a strange mix of relief and disappointment. What was this feeling? No, I should be happy. This was my chance to return to the life I wanted.

“Got it! That’s a big help!” I replied cheerfully. It truly was a convenient arrangement for me. I’d get to resume my duties and stay in the capital.

“I’m the perfect candidate. After all, I know Your Highness well—your habits and quirks,” I added with a grin.

Leon’s expression softened slightly.

“Indeed. I couldn’t think of anyone more suitable,” he said.

His words sent a warmth spreading through my chest. Why, though? It wasn’t even a compliment.

“So, I’ll continue living in the knights’ barracks, right?” I asked. It would be ideal to stay with my comrades, as always.

“Absolutely not,” Leon said firmly.

“As my fiancée, even in name only, appearances matter. I’ve arranged a private room for you in the palace.”
“A private room? Wait—”
“You’ll see it shortly. A servant will show you the way. That’s all for today. Tomorrow, we’ll discuss your new duties,” he said, standing up.

Was that it? Surely there was more to talk about? But his expression made it clear the meeting was over. I stood as well and gave a small bow.

“Understood. See you tomorrow, then.”
“One more thing…”

Leon hesitated, an unusual moment of uncertainty for him.

“That outfit… it suits you,” he said before leaving the room.

I stood there, frozen, watching him walk away.

“…What the heck was that?” I muttered, feeling my cheeks flush. Why was I blushing?

“This way, Sir Cyril,” a servant said, guiding me to my new quarters.

When I arrived, my jaw dropped.

“Whoa…”

The room was extravagant beyond belief. It was located in the royal wing, reserved for the Crown Prince’s family and closest associates.

“Isn’t this… a royal consort’s suite?” I asked, turning to the servant, who nodded gracefully.

“Indeed. As His Highness’s fiancée, this is only natural,” she replied.

The room was enormous, furnished with the finest décor—a canopy bed, elegant sofas, luxurious drapes, and even a dressing room at the far end.

“You’ve got to be kidding me…” I muttered, standing in the middle of the room in a daze.

The servant patiently explained the room’s features, but I barely heard her. My thoughts were spinning.

A fake engagement. A new role as a personal guard. This over-the-top suite.

Thinking about the life ahead, I couldn’t help but feel my stomach tighten with anxiety.