My New Love That Isn’t Fated - Episode 44

After leaving the Tillys family estate, Owen and Lilia were followed by Asbel. Realizing this, Lilia asked Owen to put her down from being carried, as it felt embarrassing to be held by him in front of her brother.

Asbel was obviously in a hurry, breathing heavily as he quickly approached them, then bowed his head.

“Your Highness, my father was terribly rude. I’m sorry, Lilia.”

“It’s okay, Asbel. I’m sorry for showing you a side of me you didn’t want to see,” Lilia said with a soft smile.

“No, that’s not it. Both my sister and I have always depended on you. Even knowing the faults of Father and Mother, we relied on your kindness. I’m glad to hear your feelings so clearly today.”

“I don’t hold any resentment toward you or Melfi,” Lilia replied.

“I understand. You’ve always been kind to us. I’m sure we made you endure a lot. From now on, I will change the Tillys family so that it can be a place where you can feel at peace. Melfi and I are on your side.”

Lilia smiled at Asbel’s apology. She had once mixed feelings toward her younger siblings. She understood they weren’t at fault. They were adorable when they were affectionate with her, but deep down, she had felt some resentment toward them.

But now, things were different. She could genuinely think of Asbel as a precious brother. She even felt like meeting Melfi again.

Since meeting Owen and speaking with Harvey, Lilia had changed a little.

“Thank you, Asbel. But you don’t have to resent our parents. I’ve found a new place to belong. The Tenegro Library and, now, being by Owen’s side. That’s enough for me right now.”

“I’ll work hard so that one day I can proudly say that I’m part of your family,” Asbel promised.

Lilia felt a little guilty that Asbel was carrying a sense of guilt that wasn’t his to bear. But she didn’t say more and smiled at him again, simply saying, “Thank you.”

“Asbel, I’ll create a place for Lilia. The Count’s attitude earlier isn’t something that started today. Lilia has endured those heartless words. It’s a wonder her heart didn’t break. I have no intention of involving Lilia with the Tillys family any longer.”

“…I understand. Your Highness is right,” Asbel said, bowing his head deeply.

Afterward, Asbel arranged for the Tillys family carriage and sent Lilia and Owen to the town. They planned to stay overnight in the town, which was a busy trading port. His father’s trade ships were docked there alongside fishing boats.

Walking by the harbor with the sound of the waves, Owen and Lilia held hands. In the afternoon, many people could be seen walking around looking for fresh seafood. The delicious scent of fried and grilled fish wafted through the air.

“Hehe, ahaha…” Lilia giggled.

“What’s wrong, Lilia?”

“I’m sorry, it’s just… it’s funny. Saying it out loud makes it so simple, but I was always so scared. I was afraid that if I said what I really felt, something would break.”

“I understand that feeling. I often try to keep up appearances. My conduct is tied to my brother’s reputation, after all. And… I could never tell you that I loved you. It’s harder to speak the truth than to say things for show.”

“Owen, when you speak the truth, you end up saying something a little embarrassing.”

“Well, it’s because you get shy about it. It’s cute, and I can’t help it.”

“…It’s thanks to you. The way I see the world has changed. Since I’ve been with you, Owen, the colors of the sky and sea seem much more beautiful. Much more than before.”

When Lilia said this with a smile, Owen’s eyes widened in surprise, and then he blushed.

“Really?”

“Did I make you embarrassed?”

“Well… yeah.”

“Owen, could you teach me some bad words? Slang? I think it would be perfect for my father.”

“…Maybe something like ‘bastard’?”

“Bastard?”

“…Lilia, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have taught you that.”

“My father is a bastard, right, Owen?” Lilia laughed loudly, pulling Owen’s hand.

Owen smiled awkwardly at her, then lovingly ruffled her hair.