~Chapter 18~
—So basically, if we figure out how the accident happened, then we either help Lily recover her memories or find out what happened to her, right?
The man, speaking in rapid-fire succession, emphasized that he’d spent a long time with Lily and quite a bit of time at the villa, so he could be helpful.
—We don’t know where Lily is right now, but wouldn’t it be better for her to cooperate with us when she returns? Since we’re spirits, we can go places you can’t.
Though their movement was limited to the area around the villa, I couldn’t completely dismiss his point.
Lily had lost her memory—she likely wouldn’t remember Lucian. She’d be wary of him, and it would take time for her to grow comfortable.
But with the spirits’ help, things might go more smoothly…
—If it’s not something you can decide alone, then ask that guy. If he agrees, there’s no problem, right?
Sensing my hesitation, he hurriedly added:
—I’ll come with you too. You can relay what I say, so we can still talk.
Introducing himself cheerfully as Chris, he followed behind me with a goofy grin.
All the way into this room.
“Why does his face look so serious? Is he really Lily’s sweet older brother? They don’t look alike at all.”
Chris, who had stayed quiet while I explained the situation, mumbled as he stared at Lucian, who was deep in thought.
Just as I gestured for Chris to keep his distance, Lucian’s crimson eyes turned toward me.
“I’m sorry for breaking my promise to keep things secret. I just felt I needed to be honest if we were going to talk about Lily.”
“It’s not that—excuse me for a moment.”
Suddenly, Lucian stood and gently took my hand.
“D-Duke?”
“Your powers aren’t running wild, but don’t overdo it. You’re still not used to using them—it must drain your strength.”
So… he wasn’t mad that I acted on my own. He was worried about me.
My heart warmed at the unexpected kindness.
After releasing my hand, Lucian sat and stared at the empty seat beside me.
“If what you said is true… then Lily doesn’t remember me.”
Seeing his face twist in pain made my chest ache.
He must be suffering. Lucian carried enormous guilt over his sister.
“Chris, was it? Thank you sincerely for looking after my sister.”
Though he couldn’t see Chris, he bowed toward the direction he assumed Chris was in.
“I accept your proposal.”
“You really will?!”
Chris couldn’t contain his joy and jumped up in excitement.
“Thank you! Seriously!”
I turned to Lucian quickly.
“He’s really happy. He says thank you so much.”
“Is it just about contacting his family? Or does he have another request?”
“He said he’ll ask the others and come back soon!”
Chris, still giddy, darted out through the door.
Watching Lucian still staring at the empty space beside me, I smiled slightly.
“He went to ask the others. He’ll be back soon.”
“Then I’ll wait until he returns.”
Lucian slowly closed his eyes.
He looked even more exhausted than before. I felt guilty for adding to his burdens.
“Are you all right?”
“I’m fine. Don’t worry about me.”
He said that—but he didn’t look fine.
Maybe that’s why I found myself saying:
“It’s not your fault, Your Grace.”
I knew it wasn’t my place, but—
“I only met Lily briefly, but even in that short time, I could see her courage and kindness. She’s not the kind of person who would blame others.”
“Do you really think so?”
Lucian’s eyes opened slowly. They were heavy with pain.
“She wandered, memory lost, for over a year while being chased by evil spirits in this place. Meanwhile, I was off wasting time, unaware.”
“You did your best. And I don’t think those days were entirely painful for Lily.”
“What?”
He looked at me like he couldn’t understand what I meant.
I glanced toward the door Chris had exited through.
“When Lily disappeared from the mansion, Chris and the other spirits were truly worried. Chris braved his fear of the evil spirit and came upstairs to find her.”
“…”
“Lily’s time here wasn’t wasted. She spent it with people who cared for her like family. And now…”
I gently laid my hand over Lucian’s trembling one.
“Now she can finally return to her real family.”
His hand twitched at my words.
I lightly patted the back of it, hoping my comfort would reach him.
Later…
“It’s probably better if they tell you their stories themselves. They weren’t ready to share them with me either,” said Chris, scratching the back of his head sheepishly.
“They said once they’ve sorted out their feelings, they’ll come to you. Is that okay?”
“Yes. Just let me know the time.”
“Right, I’ll tell them not to just pop in and surprise you. I’ll try not to either.”
Chris plopped down on the floor casually.
“Well, let me ask for my favor first.”
He cleared his throat, looking slightly nervous.
“There’s a dog I used to live with. I want to know if she’s doing okay. Could you check in on her?”
“A dog?”
“I was too busy, so I left her with a friend. But then I had the accident… I’m sure my friend’s taking good care of her, but I still worry. She’s my only family.”
I could see in his expression just how much he loved that dog.
“Her name’s Eve.”
“All right. Tell me the location.”
“Thank you so much. My friend lives at…”
As I wrote down the address, Chris stared intently at the paper.
After checking it multiple times, we handed the note to Lucian.
He relayed it immediately to the knight outside.
“It’s not far. We’ll hear back soon,” Lucian said.
Chris finally looked relieved.
To have someone who loves you that much—what must that feel like?
As I pondered, a hand suddenly appeared in front of me.
“Your Grace?”
“You haven’t eaten yet, have you? Want to join me?”
Had he sensed my thoughts and was trying to change the mood?
He was probably trying to help me relax.
“I’d like that.”
There was no way I could refuse such kindness, so I took his hand.
My first day at the busy villa was coming to a close.
After finishing the meal, Lucian and I returned to our rooms.
Of course, Sophia, my devoted maid, escorted me back.
“Thank you, Sophia. You should rest now too. I won’t be going anywhere else.”
I only said it so I could speak with Chris in private—but Sophia misunderstood completely and shook her head firmly.
“It’s my duty to make sure you’re comfortable! Let me at least prepare your bath!”
“I’m not planning on bathing just yet…”
“Then how about a warm cup of tea? It’s a chilly night.”
Sophia clearly had no intention of leaving.
But I couldn’t just tell her to go without a reason.
As I fumbled for an excuse, her eyes suddenly sparkled.
“Then how about picking out your clothes for tomorrow, Lady Luna?”
