After the serious conversations I had with Emi and Albert, we started talking about other subjects. Though less serious compared to the previous topics, they were equally important. We discussed issues related to the wedding announcement, both mine and Emi's. In the end, I managed to clarify several doubts I had. In fact, I asked Albert if I could invite Flora and Eric to the wedding. He simply told me I could do so, as Emi didn't seem to object. In fact, she even agreed with the idea when I mentioned it.
Now, all I needed to do was inform Eric and Flora when I returned to the academy. I had spent some time away as I was recovering, but the doctor finally gave me the green light, saying I could resume my normal activities, even those that required more effort. There was no reason to postpone my return to the academy anymore.
"Are you going to tell them when you get back to the academy?"
Emi asked while looking at me. In her words, I felt she wanted to express something more, so I decided to question her.
"I think so... do you think it's better not to tell them too soon? I mean, there's still some time before it starts"
I said, remembering that there was still a whole month until the party. The king would probably send the invitations to all the nobles just a few days before the event.
"No, that's not what I meant. I just thought it would be better if we told them together; after all, they are my friends too"
Emi explained, keeping her usual expressionless face. Hearing her words, I simply nodded, agreeing with her idea, and said.
"Yes, let's do that. I was also thinking it would be better if we did it together"
With a refreshing smile on my face, I looked at Emi, and she also smiled slightly, saying.
"I understand"
As Emi and I stared at each other, a noise caught our attention. As soon as I snapped out of my daze, I realized that Albert was standing beside Emi, looking at me with a smile on his face.
"I'm feeling completely out of place here"
Albert said, letting out an ironic laugh and shrugging.
"Anyway, I have another piece of news to share with you"
Albert turned his gaze to me, and as I listened to his words, I raised an eyebrow, curious about what else he had to say. At that moment, he took out a paper from his clothes, which resembled a parchment, and began to read.
"Ren Orquídes Solaris, by this decree, I promote you to Viscount in recognition of your brave action of saving a member of the royal family, risking your own life in the process"
After reading these words, Albert lowered the parchment and smiled at me with enthusiasm.
"Congratulations on the promotion, Viscount Ren"
With a smile on his face, Albert delivered his words while keeping his eyes closed. In his own way, I confess that I didn't find this situation so unpleasant, as it would certainly make it easier when my wedding with Emi was announced.
"Alright, thank you for letting me know"
After my words, the sound of the door opening echoed through the room. As I turned around, I found Hana carrying a tray with three teacups, approaching where we were. With delicacy, she placed the cups in front of Emi, Albert, and me, and then put the plate of cookies on the table. Hana made a small bow before heading towards the door. However, just before she left, something occurred to me, and I called her.
"Hana, please, could you stay for a moment?"
Upon hearing my words, Hana turned and walked towards me, with her usual kindness.
"Yes, how can I assist you, Ren-sama?"
Hana asked, looking at me attentively.
"You know, I remembered that recipe I wrote. Could you bring it to me?"
I requested, keeping my gaze on Hana. She nodded in response and said,
"As you wish, Ren-sama"
Hana left the room shortly after, and as soon as the door closed, Albert turned to me and asked.
"Did you come up with a new recipe?"
He looked at me, waiting for my answer. With an enthusiastic tone, I shared.
"Yes, actually, I tried out this recipe, and I can say it's delicious. I've been thinking about commercializing it, but I've been busy and put it on the back burner. However..."
At that moment, I turned to Emi and found her golden eyes fixed on me, as if she knew there was something more I wanted to say. With determination, I continued.
"I thought it would be great to introduce this new dish in the announcement of our wedding"
Upon hearing my words, Emi smiled gently at me with tenderness.
"Moreover, it's not something very difficult to make, the ingredients are quite basic, to tell the truth"
I added with enthusiasm. Observing my excitement, Albert nodded and displayed a smile on his face. At that moment, Hana arrived in the room with a paper in her hands. She handed me the paper with a small bow before leaving.
"Here it is"
I said, handing the paper to Albert. As soon as he took it, Albert began to read. Emi leaned in to look as well, and soon both of them were reading the recipe. After a few seconds, Albert made a comment.
"It's made with just wheat and egg, and besides, the filling can be substituted according to one's taste. It's truly an interesting idea"
Albert observed, showing his interest in the versatility and simplicity of the recipe.
"Thank you for the compliment. Do you think we could use this recipe on the day of the party?"
I asked, looking at Albert. Upon hearing my words, he put a gentle smile on his face and nodded promptly.
"Of course"
Next, both Albert and Emi stood up.
"Well, it's time for us to go. We have some other matters to attend to. It was a pleasure seeing you, Ren"
Said Albert, as they prepared to leave. Hana, who was waiting outside, opened the door for them. Just before leaving, Emi turned to me and displayed a kind and refreshing smile, saying.
"See you at the academy, Ren"
With these words, Emi and Albert left, leaving me alone in the room. There were many things to think about, but I couldn't stand still, as there was much to do.