As Expected, Only the Purest of Love Shalt Live in This Realm

But even as I explained anxiously, Asu continued to avert her eyes, her arms crossed self-consciously by her chest.

My eyes darkened and I slowly moved my left hand towards Asu. For a second, I harbored thoughts I had never thought of before?

Should I?

Would it be better that way?

After all, what if she rejects me?

What will I do then?

But before I could touch her, I jolted and shuffled back.

No.

What was I thinking?

As expected, I can't make a move on her.

Even though I played the king of Marude like a fiddle and torture my own brother, I can't even bear the thought of harming Asu.

Even if I love her so much, even if I yearn for her embrace and for her to be mine and only mine, I can't bring myself to force her to do this.

After all, even if she outwardly showed a smile, it would not reach her eyes. She would be crying under the layers of my magic… and something like this, a relationship like this… it's not what I want from her.

"Look. I-If… If you don't want to do—"

"I-I! No! I… I'll go." Her voice was quivering when she interrupted me, but I could feel her determination.

Huh?

Is this real?

Am I dreaming?

For a second, I just stood there, unable to process her words.

But as I glanced up in surprise, I saw the unwavering determination in her eyes as well.

Although I was in disbelief, I forced myself to believe it. Asu wasn't a liar, and she also wasn't one who would do anything against her beliefs. Therefore, she must've meant it when she said she'll go.

I snapped out of my daze and glared her down. "R-Really?! Are you sure?" Are you sure you're not playing me?

"Yeah." Asu smiled. It was the most beautiful smile I'd ever seen.

With my eyes closed, I inhaled and exhaled.

… She said she'll go.

She'll go!

SHE'LL GO!

Opening my mouth, I wanted to thank her or to at least make a flattering remark, but I was too emotional to say a thing.

So without a word, I threw my arms around her. At this moment, there was nothing in my mind except Asu's scent, Asu's warmth, and Asu's softness.

"H-Hey! What are you doing?! Get off! I-It feels too warm!" I heard Asu's muffled voice blurt out, but I ignored her. I wanted to immerse myself in this moment just a little longer.

Since with this, I was able to imagine a fantastical future with Asu. Even if it was only my imagination and a faraway fantasy, I still wanted to grasp it a little tighter.

I giggled like a little child. "On the day of our date, you'll be all mine!" And in the future too. Forever. Indefinitely.