But even as I explained anxiously, Asu continued to avert her eyes, her arms crossed self-consciously by her chest.
My eyes darkened and I slowly moved my left hand towards Asu. For a second, I harbored thoughts I had never thought of before?
Should I?
Would it be better that way?
After all, what if she rejects me?
What will I do then?
But before I could touch her, I jolted and shuffled back.
No.
What was I thinking?
As expected, I can't make a move on her.
Even though I played the king of Marude like a fiddle and torture my own brother, I can't even bear the thought of harming Asu.
Even if I love her so much, even if I yearn for her embrace and for her to be mine and only mine, I can't bring myself to force her to do this.
After all, even if she outwardly showed a smile, it would not reach her eyes. She would be crying under the layers of my magic… and something like this, a relationship like this… it's not what I want from her.
"Look. I-If… If you don't want to do—"
"I-I! No! I… I'll go." Her voice was quivering when she interrupted me, but I could feel her determination.
Huh?
Is this real?
Am I dreaming?
For a second, I just stood there, unable to process her words.
But as I glanced up in surprise, I saw the unwavering determination in her eyes as well.
Although I was in disbelief, I forced myself to believe it. Asu wasn't a liar, and she also wasn't one who would do anything against her beliefs. Therefore, she must've meant it when she said she'll go.
I snapped out of my daze and glared her down. "R-Really?! Are you sure?" Are you sure you're not playing me?
"Yeah." Asu smiled. It was the most beautiful smile I'd ever seen.
With my eyes closed, I inhaled and exhaled.
… She said she'll go.
She'll go!
SHE'LL GO!
Opening my mouth, I wanted to thank her or to at least make a flattering remark, but I was too emotional to say a thing.
So without a word, I threw my arms around her. At this moment, there was nothing in my mind except Asu's scent, Asu's warmth, and Asu's softness.
"H-Hey! What are you doing?! Get off! I-It feels too warm!" I heard Asu's muffled voice blurt out, but I ignored her. I wanted to immerse myself in this moment just a little longer.
Since with this, I was able to imagine a fantastical future with Asu. Even if it was only my imagination and a faraway fantasy, I still wanted to grasp it a little tighter.
I giggled like a little child. "On the day of our date, you'll be all mine!" And in the future too. Forever. Indefinitely.