The Festivities of Marielle Clarac by Haruka Momo

Author:Haruka Momo [Momo, Haruka]
Language: eng
Format: epub, pdf
Publisher: J-Novel Club
Published: 2022-06-27T00:00:00+00:00

Once he made a promise, he always remembered it. Ordinarily I’d have been thrilled, but in this case, I couldn’t assent quite so readily. “Thank you,” I replied. Then, wavering, I added, “But could we put off going out for another time?”

He raised his eyebrows in surprise. “Do you have plans of your own? A meeting with your publisher, perhaps?”

“No, it’s not that.”

With Noël coming to an end, the world would start to return to normality as work picked up again. That meant it would soon be time for another meeting with my publisher, but I was considering asking Mr. Satie to hold off for the time being. I’d already written and submitted the last portions of my serialization, so I didn’t think the delay would cause any problems. The unexpectedly favorable reception of my newspaper story had prompted talks of a follow-up, but I planned to put that off for now too.

Lord Simeon surmised my motives without even asking. “Are you concerned about that rumor? I’d have thought it would be like water off a duck’s back for you.”

“I don’t mind on a personal level. People can say whatever they’d like about me. The issue is that gossip about me impacts your house...including you.”

Rumors of a debauched wife chasing after other men was nothing short of a dishonor to her husband, regardless of whether they were actually true. The instant the gossip began spreading, the damage was already done. That was why I’d decided to refrain from any excursions. If I was seen out and about, it would only encourage tongues to wag.

“I don’t think anyone really believes it,” I continued, smiling to discourage his worry. “I’m sure it’s nothing more than amusement to them. This is the season when people tend to spend more time cooped up at home anyway, so if I avoid drawing attention to myself, the tempest should die down soon enough. I’d prefer to go out then. I’ve been waiting for a chance to go out with you, so I’d like to be able to enjoy it to the fullest.”

He hesitated a moment, but then conceded, “All right. I understand.”

Though his expression didn’t change as such, remaining mild, he began to exude the faintest hint of anger. Not at me, but at the culprit behind the rumor. Have I made him think I’m forcing myself to abstain from the things I enjoy? I hope he doesn’t do anything rash.

“Indeed, it might be better to wait until that irritating chorus has been silenced. I want you to be able to genuinely enjoy yourself as well, so we’ll arrange another day.”

“Good,” I replied, though with a tremor in my voice. “Thank you.”

The icy chill in his smile was the quintessence of the brutal blackhearted military officer. He said the word “silenced” so nonchalantly, but how exactly does he intend to silence them? Honestly, you mustn’t do anything too rash!

I passed his bag to him, and as he went to adjust it, he said, “Oh, I almost forgot.

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