Now what? Jaakuna felt terrible about all this, and now Emiri was feeling guilty. What a mess this was. She needed to stop overthinking, she didn't want him to have to suffer again because of her. Not again. She finally got the guts to look at him again, though her bangs obscured her vision partly. He looked so genuine right now, so serious. It was so unlike him, this entire thing was unlike him. That thought made her want to laugh a little, while it never came out, she did smile at him. She was happy now, just being with him. His hands were softer than she had imagined. She could feel some of the calluses from his sword, though it wasn't unpleasant. Holding hands with him like this, she remembered his dream. This was the future he wanted. She could put up with it for now. "[b]I just need time.[/b]" She found herself telling him quietly. "[b]It's...it's a lot to process.[/b]" The admission felt like a great weight had been lifted off of her chest.

"[b]For some time now, the idea of being shackled to anyone is...it's terrifying. I don't know, maybe I don't know what marriage really is. But if it's for you...if it's to you...I...[/b]" Her voice trailed off, and she suddenly became very embarrassed. Did she just admit that she found herself actually wanting to marry him?

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"[b]Father and Grant aren't much alike, though.[/b]" Nadeline told Wesley as she leaned against the table. "[b]Grant is very serious. He's very much a gentleman, despite his flaws. He's actually a lot like you, now that I think about it.[/b]" She paused, though she really did think so. "[b]Father is the complete opposite of Grant, and Reia--Her Eminence, as well. He doesn't want to rule Rozarria, all he wants to do is take care of my mother and myself. He much prefers to go on walks, or mingle with the townspeople. He's very popular, so it was quite the shock when he announced that under no circumstances would he rule the land. He doesn't mind if I succeed him--it's why I'm second in line for the throne, right after Grant. [/b]" She told Wesley.