Simon turned towards Louise, his hand automatically lifting up to rest against her pale check. This gentle girl was the only thing he hadnt given up on. Simon had to choose between keeping this feeling or letting go of it. The former queens proposal was the only way to expand his horizons, even if there is hell beyond which Simon does not wish.

Thank you.

Simon murmured and took away his hand that touched her cheek, clenching his fist to trap the sensation on his palm. He knew for the first time that he had to step over the line. He could not back off now.

Grandmother.

Simon stood up from his seat and turned quickly. In his voice was a new pride that had never been there before. The former queen, who had walked a few steps away, looked back and smiled.

The look of determination on Simons face was enough to tell her his answer. Of course she knew. Simon was her beloved grandson that she had known for years.

Well, I suppose I must. Come to think of it, theres no way I can leave a pathetic child to wander outside.

The former queen stood in front of Simon. When she reached out her arms, he knelt before her.

Simon Hillard. If you want my last strength.

Her deeply wrinkled hands grasped Simons shoulders.

Prove to me your excellence.

Simon raised his head and his eyes trembled finely.

At the Academys final exams, you should not allow anyones name above you.

In short, he had to be the top student. The position that Ian had always taken.

If there is no one above your name, there is no reason for me to send you away, is that right?

Simon didnt answer. He thought of the various things that would tie him down, no matter how sincere his desire was.

However, once he crossed the line, his mind seemed to have lost all control, and he answered without hesitation.

Yes.

Even as he said it, the words sounded new and strange to him.

I wont let anyone best me.

There was only one person that was supposed to say those words. The former queen peered at him closely.

Dont give up.

She turned towards Ian.

Ian Audmonial, remember this well. Someone who has succeeded in stealing one thingWill never be satisfied by that one thing alone.

They would try to steal something else. Regardless of what it was, as long as it was something Simon desired.

And Ian knew what Simon Hillard desired desperately.

There is an old oath between Simon and I.

Ian lifted his hand to his heart.

No one will see hope in Simon Hillard.

The lifelong promise still stood firmly between the two.

And most of all, Simon Hillard is mine. I will not lose him to you, Grandmother.

Hm. Do you think Simon would want that?

Even if Simon is given a new opportunity, its my duty to not lose. I repeat, Simon is mine.

Ian, you have a terrible upbringing.

I learned from my grandmother.

She frowned. That was true.

You taught me to hold on to the most precious thing, no matter if your status or honor is thrown away.

Ian gazed into the former queens face.

And to hold on to it until the last moment.

Simon, youd better get away from that wicked cousin of yours soon.

Simon nodded seriously at the former queens advice, and Ian seized Simon by the collar.

But soon after, both of them just smiled. The two seem to be equally unwilling to let go.

*

*

*

The former queen did not dawdle any longer and finished preparing to return.

The trio offered to see her off, but Louise was the only one who received permission to do so.

Thank you for playing with my grandchildren.

The former queen took some lollipops out of the carriage and placed them in Louises hands.

Those two were the ones playing with me.

Louise held the candy tightly in her hands with the intention of sharing it with the other two.

Ive always wondered.

Yes?

Who would Sweeney chooseheavens, it is truly a big concern.

The former queen put her hand on her chin, her expression troubled.

Big concern?

She wondered if there was something wrong.

This old woman is betting on Simon, but oh dear.

Betting? With whom and what?

When Louise pressed the former queen for details, she simply chuckled and inhaled deeply.

You dont have to worry. Either way, he is my precious grandchild and I value him forever.

The former queen was saying more curious things, but it was so sweet to hear that Louise smiled.

One must laugh, eat and play a lot. Especially when old grows older, as that is when you need it most.

After sincerely offering her wisdom, the former queen turned around again and headed for the carriage.

Is it a birthday present?

At her sudden interruption, the servants glared daggers at Louises back again. She was used to it now, so it was okay.

Today

The former queen smiled down at Louise from the carriage.

Was it Louise Sweeneys birthday today?

O-oh no, I just meant the candy for

Take care.

No sooner had her words finished than the carriage door closed. The carriage swiftly departed from the Academy, and Louise remained bowing until the sound of the horses hooves disappeared.

*

*

*

After the former queens departure, the trio hung around at the chilly rooftop of the dormitory building. Someone had reported Ian had smuggled alcohol, and now all three of their rooms were being inspected by the Academy staff. Louise divided the lollipops between the three of them, and they placed the candy in their mouths.

Its an exciting birthday party.

Simon mumbled through his lollipop, and a cold autumn breeze blew.