This Time, I Am A Mob's Potions Teacher Who Has Become Engaged To The Mastermind Of The Otome Game - 2

“You’re saying we should go on a date… the two of us?”

“That’s right. We’re engaged, after all. Let’s go out together.”

…I mean, my real goal is to raise Noel’s affection level, though.

If I don’t slowly win him over, I probably won’t be able to stop him from falling into darkness.

Also, it would be great if he could carry my shopping bags.

Noel gave me a bright smile, but—

“Sorry, I’m too busy. I can’t go.”

He shut me down flatly.

Well, I expected as much. The only reason Noel interacts with me is probably because of Roaek-sensei or to keep an eye on me.

“I see. That’s a shame.”

And just like that, Operation Open⭐Heart was a complete failure.

I’ll have to investigate the cause and plan a better strategy next time.

For now, I guess I’ll just go alone.

Even if I buy a lot, the store can send it with the Kettoshie delivery service.

I had hoped to bring the items home myself, though.

◇

Every time I come into the city—the royal capital—I get excited.

Back when I was a student at Oria Magic Academy, we were only allowed into the city once a month, so we barely ever went out. On the rare days we could, my friends and I would spend the whole day having fun.

“Hey, brat! Where are we going?”

“To the fabric store. I want to make something to give the students.”

My little watchdog, Jill, skillfully navigates the crowds to follow me.

He seems just as excited—his eyes sparkling with joy. His expression is so adorable that I can’t help but smile.

“Even though it’s not a special occasion?”

“Every day is a special, ordinary day.”

“Huh?”

Jill gave a thoroughly confused grunt.

As I kept walking, pretending not to notice, someone suddenly called out to me. I turned around to find none other than Mr. Castanier.

“Ms. Bellecourt! Out shopping today?”

“Mr. Castanier, it’s been a while. Thank you again for the flowers the other day. I’ve put them in the prep room.”

He had given me a bouquet as a get-well gift when I went to thank him for coming to my aid.

“Oh, I’m glad! That makes me very happy.”

His strong, dignified face softened into a smile—he really is a wonderful person.

Mr. Castanier is truly one of the good ones.

He’s the commander of the knight order, head of an earl family, kind, handsome, and cares deeply for his subordinates.

A total catch. I sincerely hope he finds happiness.

“What are you shopping for today?”

“I came to check out some fabric. I was hoping to find something useful for class.”

…I mean, I’m actually here to buy materials for potato tracksuits, and no, I’ve never heard of any magic pharmacology lesson needing large amounts of fabric.

I pasted on my perfect noble-lady smile and tried to bluff. For some reason, Mr. Castagnier seemed deeply impressed.

“In that case, allow me to accompany you! I’d be happy to help carry your things.”

…Okay, this man might be too kind for his own good. He seems like the type who would fall for a scam without even realizing it.

If it were Noel, he’d see right through my flimsy excuse and interrogate me on the spot.

“Um, thank you, but really, I couldn’t possibly—”

It’s true I was wishing for someone to help with bags, but I’m technically engaged to Noel, even if it’s just a contract.

Even if there’s nothing improper going on, being alone with another man could give the wrong impression.

“I just want to be of service to the students who represent the future of this kingdom.”

…If you say something that noble, how can I say no?

I convinced myself to accept his generous offer.

“Here we are.”

The fabric store, located just off the main street of the royal capital, was run by a sweet elderly lady who came out to greet us.

I’d visited this shop back in my school days, right before the culture festival.

“I’m looking for some white fabric and some red fabric. Could you show me what you have? I’d like to make something easy to move around in.”

“Of course, dear. Please wait a moment.”

The elderly woman gave instructions to her assistant, who disappeared into the back of the shop.

“Hey, brat! You’ve got a fiancé and you’re out here flirting? You’ve got guts!”

“Jill, that’s terribly rude to Mr. Castanier.”

Still, Jill remains fiercely loyal to his master and is now fuming.

“Haha, giving your familiar to your fiancé—Lord Fabius must care for you very deeply.”

Mr. Castanier offered a soft smile, his brows raised slightly in amusement.

…You’re mistaken.

He didn’t assign Jill to me out of affection, but because he doesn’t trust me and wants to keep an eye on me.

Of course, I can’t say that, so I just smiled awkwardly.

“Lord Fabius is a lucky man to have someone like you as his bride.”

“I’d be happy if he thought so, too.”

Because, right now… he’s extremely wary of me.

For the time being, my goal is to earn enough trust for him to recall the watchdog.

Maybe some kind of affection-boosting event would help… Isn’t this supposed to be an otome game world?

I let out a tiny sigh, bracing myself for the long, difficult road ahead.