Ruth woke up, noticing Alex resting peacefully beside her. Careful not to wake him, she quietly slipped out of bed and made her way to her room to get ready for the day. After changing into her maid's uniform, she headed to the kitchen, where she greeted Hugh with a warm "Good morning."
Hugh, already hard at work preparing breakfast, smiled at Ruth as she entered. "Morning, Ruth," he said, his usual gruff yet kind tone in place.
While Ruth helped him with the meal, she asked, "What are your plans for the New Year, Hugh?"
Hugh's expression shifted slightly, the weight of his memories showing in his eyes. "Ah, well… same as last year, I guess," he replied, a bit more somberly. "I'll visit my wife and daughter."
Ruth's heart sank as she remembered the tragedy. Hugh's wife and daughter had passed away in a mugging after returning to Gorin from a family visit. It had broken him for a time, but over the past few years, he had found some solace in the relationships he'd built in the estate, especially his bond with Ruth. She had always been close to his daughter, often playing with her when she visited, and after their loss, Ruth became like a surrogate daughter to him.
Ruth gently squeezed Hugh's arm, then pulled him into a comforting hug. "You're family to me, Hugh," she whispered. "When we get back from the New Year's event, I'll bring flowers for their graves."
Hugh chuckled softly, appreciating her kindness. "Thank you, Ruth. But don't worry about an old man like me. You've got bigger things to think about—like helping Alex get through this New Year's ball."
Ruth smiled, but Hugh noticed her expression shift, her eyes clouding with a sadness she was trying to hide. He furrowed his brow, concern crossing his face. "Something on your mind, Ruth?" he asked, his tone more serious now.
Ruth hesitated, unsure of how to express what she was feeling. She had been holding onto these thoughts for a while now, and Hugh had always been someone she could confide in. Taking a deep breath, she finally said, "I… I feel like a burden to Alex sometimes. I wonder if it would be best for me to accept it if a noble forces me into their service as a personal maid."
Hugh's face softened as he let out a heavy sigh. "Ruth, let me ask you something. Do you love Alex?"
Ruth flushed, her face turning pink as she looked down, trying to hide her emotions. After a few moments of gathering her thoughts, she looked up, meeting Hugh's eyes. "Yes," she said, her voice steady but her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "I love him. He's the most wonderful man I've ever met. He's kind, protective, and cares for me in ways that no noble or powerful man ever could. When I offered myself as his personal maid, I meant it—he's my husband in every way that matters."
Hugh, taken aback by Ruth's heartfelt confession, couldn't help but feel the weight of her words. He wrapped his strong arms around her, pulling her into another hug, patting her back as she let out a few quiet sobs.
"You've done more than enough, Ruth," Hugh said softly, his voice filled with warmth. "You support Alex in everything he does. That's more than anyone could ask for. I see the love you two share—reminds me of how I felt about my wife."
Ruth sniffled, managing a small smile as Hugh continued to console her. "And I'll tell you this," Hugh added, his voice firm. "Alex isn't just some kid with potential. He's someone who can change how the cultivation world sees things, someone who'll make a name for himself. But if you want to keep going with this, you have to trust him. Trust that he'll win at the ball and protect you in ways only he can."
Ruth nodded, feeling a wave of reassurance wash over her. Hugh's words, combined with his fatherly warmth, brought her a sense of peace she hadn't expected. After a moment, she looked up at Hugh again and asked, "Do you think… it would be okay if, moving forward, you acknowledged Alex as my husband? I'm planning to ask Sir Bartlow and Lady Mane for permission to fully become his personal maid now that I'm of age. Even though I turned 18 a while ago, we wait until the New Year to announce our age."
Hugh let out a deep, heavy sigh before chuckling softly. "Ruth, I already see Alex as your husband," he admitted with a grin. "And as far as I'm concerned, you've got my blessing. But just so you know, if he ever makes you cry or hurts you in any way, I'll make sure he regrets it."
Ruth burst into a mix of laughter and tears, feeling a swell of happiness in her chest. She hugged Hugh tightly, her voice filled with gratitude as she said, "Thank you, Hugh. For everything."
Hugh patted her back once more, his rough exterior softened by the moment. "Wouldn't have it any other way, lil' squirt," he said with a chuckle.
As they finished preparing breakfast, Ruth's heart felt lighter, her resolve stronger than ever. She had her own role to play in helping Alex succeed, and she wouldn't let her doubts stand in the way of the future she wanted with him.
Ruth entered the infirmary with breakfast plates in hand, her eyes catching Rebecca's focused movements as she prepared healing and mana potions for the upcoming New Year's event. Despite the busy scene, Rebecca turned with a smile as Ruth approached.
"Morning, Rebecca. I brought you some breakfast," Ruth said, setting down the plate.
Rebecca gratefully accepted it and paused her potion preparations. "Thanks, Ruth. I appreciate it. You always know how to take care of me."
Ruth smiled warmly but hesitated before stepping away, lingering at the edge of the room. Sensing something on Ruth's mind, Rebecca glanced over her shoulder.
"What's going on?" she asked, her tone gentle but perceptive.
Ruth sighed, playing with the edge of her apron. "I… I could use some advice. I don't know how to talk to anyone else about it."
Rebecca, noticing Ruth's serious demeanor, wiped her hands clean and turned fully to face her. "Of course. You know you can talk to me about anything."
Rebecca had always been like an older sister to Ruth. Over the past year, they had grown closer. Their relationship had become one of mutual respect, shared confidences, and genuine sisterly love. It was Rebecca Ruth turned to whenever she needed guidance—whether about her training, her role in the Mane household, or her personal struggles with Alex.
Ruth took a deep breath before speaking, her voice soft. "It's about Alex… and me. I love him more than anything, but with everything happening at the New Year's ball, I feel like I'm not strong enough to stand by his side. I feel like I'm holding him back."
Rebecca's expression softened as she took in Ruth's words. "I understand where you're coming from," she said, stepping closer and pulling Ruth into a gentle hug. "You've both been through so much together. But you're stronger than you think, Ruth."
Ruth leaned into the hug, feeling comforted by Rebecca's warmth. She had always admired Rebecca's strength and wisdom, almost like she was the sister Ruth never had. Rebecca's unwavering support over the past year had been a constant source of comfort.
"But I haven't been able to progress like Alex has," Ruth said, her voice barely above a whisper. "My spirit cultivation is still at the mortal stage. I've only made it to the beginner stage with my body and mana, and I don't know if that's enough. I just want to be someone Alex can depend on. I don't want to be a burden."
Rebecca pulled back slightly, her hands resting on Ruth's shoulders. "Ruth, listen to me. You've been training alongside Alex and Bartlow for a full year, and you've made incredible progress. Most people would never have been able to keep up with that level of training. You're a genius in your own right. You just need to stop comparing your journey to Alex's."
Ruth sniffled, blinking back tears. "But what if it's not enough? What if I can't protect him like he protects me?"
Rebecca smiled softly and brushed a lock of Ruth's hair behind her ear, an affectionate gesture she'd done many times before. "You've been there for Alex in more ways than just fighting, Ruth. You were by his side when he needed you most. You took care of him when he was injured, and you've been his emotional rock. Don't underestimate how much that matters."
Ruth's eyes welled up again, but this time it wasn't from doubt—it was from the realization that maybe she wasn't as weak as she thought. "You really think so?"
"I know so," Rebecca said firmly. "You've grown so much, and you're continuing to grow. You're not just his personal maid—you're his partner. And anyone who sees the two of you together can tell how much he loves you."
Ruth blushed, smiling through her tears. She had always felt that Rebecca understood her on a deeper level, and right now, that sisterly bond was exactly what she needed.
Rebecca chuckled and added, "Plus, I've known you've loved him since the night you stayed by his side after that three-star beast attack. You were worried sick, and you didn't leave his side for days."
Ruth's face flushed even deeper at the memory. "You saw that?"
"Of course, I did. I was there every time I checked on him," Rebecca teased gently. "It was obvious to anyone paying attention."
Ruth laughed lightly, the tension in her shoulders easing. But then her expression turned more serious again. "Rebecca… how can I be a better wife to him? When the New Year's ball comes, it'll be announced publicly that I'm his personal maid, but we both agreed that I'm no less than his wife in his eyes. How do I make sure I'm enough for him?"
Rebecca's smile softened. "Ruth, you're already a wonderful wife. You support him, care for him, and stand by him. That's what a marriage is about—being there for each other through everything. And you've proven that time and time again. Just keep being yourself, and trust that Alex sees you the same way you see him. That's more than enough."
Rebecca gave Ruth's hands a squeeze. "Besides, if anyone tries to take you away, I'm sure Alex will make sure they regret it."
Ruth giggled, feeling reassured. "You're probably right."
Rebecca winked. "I know I am. But if you ever need more advice—about training, about Alex, about anything—you can always come to me. We're like sisters, after all."
Ruth's heart swelled at Rebecca's words. She had always considered Rebecca more than just a colleague; she was family. "Thank you, Rebecca. I'm really lucky to have you."
Rebecca pulled her into another warm hug, her sisterly affection evident. "And I'm lucky to have you, too. Now, go make sure Alex is ready for the ball. I'll be rooting for you both."
Ruth left the infirmary with a renewed sense of strength, knowing that with Rebecca's sisterly support and Alex by her side, she could face anything that came their way.
As Ruth made her way down the hallway, she was stopped by Bartlow, who was heading back from his morning duties. They greeted each other warmly, and Ruth handed him the breakfast she had prepared. Just as Bartlow was about to continue toward his quarters, Ruth hesitated. She felt a growing need to ask him the same question that had been nagging at her all morning.
"Bartlow, can I ask you something?" Ruth called out, stopping him in his tracks.
He turned, his eyes narrowing with curiosity. "Of course, Ruth. What's on your mind?"
Ruth felt her throat tighten, unsure of how to express her feelings without sounding weak or insecure. "I've been talking to Hugh and Rebecca, and I just… I feel like I'm not enough for Alex. I mean, I try to help where I can, but with everything that's coming up, I can't help but think I'm becoming more of a burden. Is there something more I should be doing?"
Bartlow sighed heavily, and Ruth instantly feared she'd said the wrong thing. He had always been stern, a man of few but precise words. His honesty could be brutal, and she braced herself for the worst.
"Ruth," Bartlow began, his tone steady but direct, "your fears aren't unfounded, but you're asking the wrong question."
The response hit Ruth like a slap, leaving her more confused than ever. "What do you mean?" she asked, feeling the weight of her insecurity deepen.
Bartlow crossed his arms, his expression thoughtful. "You're so focused on what you think Alex needs from you that you haven't thought to ask him what would actually help put him at ease."
The simplicity of the statement stunned Ruth. She stood there, dumbfounded by how she hadn't thought of that herself. "I… I didn't even think of asking him directly."
Bartlow shook his head with a faint smile. "It's not too late. And don't get me wrong, you've been doing everything you can think of, but sometimes, the best way to support someone is to ask what they really need."
Ruth felt her heart lift, the weight of her self-doubt lightening just a little. "I never realized…"
Bartlow leaned against the wall, his voice softening. "You may not be as strong as Alex in terms of cultivation, but in case you haven't noticed, you're his biggest strength. Why do you think he pushes himself to the point of breaking bones, draining his mana until he collapses? It's not just because of the ball or his training."
Ruth's heart fluttered, her face flushing as she realized what Bartlow was saying. "He does it for me?"
Bartlow nodded. "Exactly. You're his motivation, his rock. You may see yourself as a weakness, but to him, you're his strength. Every day I see him pushing himself further, and it's because of you."
Ruth felt her stomach swirl with butterflies, a wave of both relief and nervousness washing over her. Bartlow's acknowledgment of her and Alex's relationship felt like the validation she had been seeking. He had always been perceptive, and hearing him recognize the depth of their bond made her feel more secure.
"But what if I'm not enough?" Ruth asked, her voice softer now.
Bartlow chuckled lightly. "Ruth, I've been watching the two of you for a while. You're already more than enough for him. And in case you haven't noticed, you've already earned my respect—both of you have. The bond you two share? It's not something that can be measured by cultivation stages."
Feeling emboldened by Bartlow's words, Ruth asked timidly, "Would you give us your blessing, then? For… everything?"
Bartlow's smile widened, and in a rare moment of tenderness, he bowed slightly to Ruth. "I would be honored to give you my blessing. You and Alex have a bond that can only grow stronger with time. I look forward to seeing you both become exceptional cultivators—and more than that, exceptional partners."
Ruth, feeling a surge of gratitude, awkwardly leaned in and hugged Bartlow, forgetting the trays in her hands. Bartlow, caught off guard but amused, gently patted her on the head. "You're doing just fine, Ruth. Keep doing your best, just like Alex will. And if he ever gets out of line, remind him that I'm still his master. I'm responsible for how he turns out."
Ruth pulled back, laughing lightly at his words. "Thank you, Bartlow. For everything."
"Now, get to Lady Mane before her food gets cold," Bartlow said with a wink, nodding toward the hallway.
Realizing she was still holding the trays, Ruth thanked Bartlow once more before turning and dashing toward Lady Mane's office. As she disappeared around the corner, Bartlow chuckled to himself, shaking his head as he made his way to his room.
Ruth made her way into Lady Mane's office, knocking lightly and announcing her arrival. Lady Mane's voice called her inside, and Ruth entered with a warm greeting, setting the breakfast tray on Lady Mane's desk. As Ruth prepared to excuse herself, feeling unsure about how to bring up her own worries, Lady Mane spoke up, her tone gentle but firm.
"Thank you for breakfast, Ruth, but before you go, please sit. There's something I'd like to discuss with you," Lady Mane said, her eyes meeting Ruth's with an air of seriousness.
Ruth, caught off guard, paused for a moment before obediently sitting down, her heart racing slightly. She had intended to ask for Lady Mane's guidance, but it seemed as though Lady Mane had something important on her mind as well.
As Ruth settled into the chair, the room grew quiet, and she could feel the weight of what was about to be said. She looked up at Lady Mane, her heart pounding, waiting to hear what was coming next.
Lady Mane, seeing Ruth's dedication to Alex and recognizing her as a daughter in many ways, took a deep breath before speaking. "Ruth, you've done everything you can to support Alex, and I can see how much you care for him. But Alex is in an important stage of his cultivation journey, and being his personal maid means more than just serving him. You've taken on the role of his wife in many ways, and that comes with its own responsibilities."
Ruth felt a nervous flutter in her chest, wondering if Lady Mane thought she wasn't doing enough. Her hands fidgeted in her lap, but she kept her composure as Lady Mane continued.
"I've accepted that once Alex becomes a noble, you may no longer serve the Mane family. But while you're still with us, I have a request." Lady Mane's tone softened, but there was an edge of seriousness. "I know you care deeply for Alex, and I want you to know that this family will always be your family, whether you stay as his maid or move on to something else."
Ruth's heart swelled at those words. She reassured Lady Mane, "Thank you. I will always be grateful to the Mane family, and I will do whatever I can to support Alex and this household, no matter what."
Lady Mane smiled, nodding. "I believe you, Ruth. But what I'm asking of you is more than just emotional support. You see, men in the cultivation world—especially those who grow strong—have different expectations placed on them. It's not uncommon for powerful men to have many women in their lives. Even the king has his harem, and the same goes for higher-ranking nobles. Alex is no different in that regard."
Ruth felt her cheeks flush, her nerves prickling as she began to understand what Lady Mane was implying. "You're saying that Alex…," she started, her voice faltering.
Lady Mane leaned forward slightly, her expression kind but serious. "Alex will become a powerful figure, Ruth. You know that as well as I do. Bartlow has seen it in his abilities, and I know he will go far. You have a chance to make yourself irreplaceable in his eyes. He loves you, that's clear, but being his personal maid means also fulfilling certain… expectations."
Ruth's mind raced as she processed Lady Mane's words. It wasn't just about supporting Alex emotionally. There were other roles to fulfill—ones that were part of being with a man in this world. "Are you giving your blessing for me and Alex to…?" Ruth asked hesitantly.
Lady Mane nodded gently. "Yes. It's clear you two have feelings for each other, and I believe you'll be good for him. But be careful, Ruth. You're both young, and just because you're cultivators doesn't mean you should rush into anything unprepared."
Ruth blushed deeply but felt a surge of excitement and relief. For a long time, she had worried she wasn't doing enough, but now Lady Mane was acknowledging the depth of their relationship. Ruth nodded gratefully. "Thank you, Lady Mane. I've been thinking about this for a while, and I want to be there for Alex in every way. I've even been studying…" She trailed off, embarrassed to admit that she had been researching how to fulfill her duties as a wife.
Lady Mane raised an eyebrow, curious. "Studying, you say?"
Ruth flushed even more. "I've been reading… books from the library. On… how to be a good wife. To make sure I'm ready."
Lady Mane was both surprised and impressed. "Well, you've certainly been thorough. Just be careful, Ruth. Don't rush into things. And if it's meant to be, it will happen. But remember, you have to balance your love for Alex with practicality. You're young, and there's time for a family later. For now, focus on supporting him in the best way possible."
Ruth nodded, her heart full of gratitude. "I understand. I'll talk to Alex when the time is right."
Lady Mane stood up, walking over to Ruth and giving her a warm, motherly hug. "I'm proud of you, Ruth. You've grown into a wonderful young woman, and I know you and Alex will make a great couple."
Ruth, feeling reassured, hugged Lady Mane back. "Thank you, Lady Mane. I won't let you or Alex down."
Lady Mane smiled and gave her a small wink. "Go on, take the rest of the day to tend to Alex. He'll need his strength for what's ahead."
Blushing heavily, Ruth gave Lady Mane a bow and excused herself.
Ruth's mind was racing as she walked, her excitement uncontainable. Her steps quickened, and she couldn't help but blush at the thoughts swirling in her head. She replayed all the news she had received today—from Lady Mane, Bartlow, Rebecca, and Hugh—her heart pounding as she thought of how she would tell Alex. But what made her cheeks redden the most was the idea of becoming more intimate with him. Her mind flashed back to the countless nights they had spent together in bed, with Alex's warm body pressed close to hers, his muscles brushing against her skin.
She shook her head slightly, trying to push away the heat rising in her cheeks as memories flooded her. She couldn't help but think about the moments when she'd felt his body so close to hers—his strong arms holding her, his bulging muscles pressing against her. There were nights when she would catch a glimpse of him, his body relaxed in sleep, and her curiosity would wander, her heart racing at the sight. The physical closeness they shared always made her feel safe, but now…now it was different.
Her thoughts drifted further, and she felt a sudden warmth between her legs, her body reacting to the vivid memories of Alex. Embarrassed and flustered, she quickened her pace, trying to calm herself down. Now wasn't the time to let her imagination run wild. She had so much to do—breakfast to prepare, plans to make.
With a small, nervous chuckle, she thought about how Alex always relied on her to wake him up on his days off. If she didn't wake him, he'd probably sleep through the entire day, his body exhausted from training. Smiling at the thought, she knew this was her way of taking care of him, just as he worked so hard for her every day.
Ruth hurried into the kitchen, determined to grab her breakfast quickly and prepare Alex's meal for when he woke up. She wanted everything to be perfect, especially now that she had so much to share with him. Today was going to be special—she could feel it.