How to Be a Dark Hero’s Daughter

One day, I had promised. When we grew up, I would become Marianne’s friend.

“Now, isn’t it better to converse with friends than with me? I’m sure there are many people in the social circles who would pique your interest.”

“I like Marianne the most. And I’m happy. When I was young, I didn’t understand all of Marianne’s stories, but now I understand a lot.”

“You’re also pretty.”

Marianne chuckled.

“But what’s the problem? Do you like married men?”

“Pff.”

I almost spat out the tea I was drinking.

“Marianne!”

“Ha ha, just kidding. Just a joke.”

Marianne waved her hand.

“It’s not that kind of problem…”

I eventually confided in Marianne.

“Actually, this is a story about my friend.”

I changed the subject slightly to talk about Cedric in disguise and briefly explained.

“So, my friend thinks he might have ruined the date and feels responsible.”

Marianne nodded her head.

“Hmm, let me see. This kind of thing is my specialty.”

“…”

“So you don’t want to marry prince Cedric and become a queen, but you don’t dislike Cedric. And Cedric found out about your past?”

Why does everyone realize it’s about Cedric as soon as I bring it up?

I reluctantly nodded.

Moreover, I thought Cedric would at least send a letter, but there was no contact. It’s the first time he hasn’t reached out.

“But you like Cedric, right?”

My ears turned red.

“Perhaps…”

“Our smart baby is so cute when she’s clumsy! Go meet him first, and it’ll be over.”

“But…”

“Even though I can’t marry any man, I’m sincere when I love. Even with someone like me?”

“Marianne…”

I felt sorry for Marianne.

“Don’t make that face. Doesn’t it seem like it’s not a big deal when you look at me?”

“That’s…”

Marianne patted my head.

“Anyone would love a child like you. Cedric will, too.”

“…”

“You only live once, so don’t overthink. And if you’re curious, go ask him. Do you want me to be responsible?”

“Wouldn’t that be too trashy?”

I spoke seriously. Marianne laughed.

“What does it matter? Sometimes the emotionally weak have to yield in a relationship. Leticia, you’re a smart child. You know what to do. Do as you wish.”

Adults are amazing. They seem clueless most of the time, but sometimes they know everything. I nodded.

“Yes, Marianne.”

* * *

“Cedric.”

I sought out Cedric that day.

Cedric, who was sitting in the inquisitor’s office, widened his eyes.

“Everyone, get out.”

Cedric spoke coldly. The inquisitors promptly left the room.

“What’s the matter?”

Cedric asked calmly. I approached him.

“Are you mad at me?”

“…No. Why would I be?”

Cedric, who would usually smile and rise from his seat, just looked at the documents with his glasses on. He was clearly angry.

“I’m sorry. I think you’re mad.”

“…How do you know I’m mad?”

“I made assumptions and answered on my own. I also thought Cedric was mocking me.”

Cedric sighed and took off his glasses. Only then did he seem to really look at me.

“I’m sorry too. I should have told you from the start that I knew everything. I… didn’t know you’d be troubled by such a thing, Leticia.”

“I just wanted to look good in front of Cedric. I think I’ve wanted that since school. Our grades were always competitive. I wanted to show you only my current self, not my pitiful past.”

“Leticia, when I hear that, I start to get hopeful again, so either say it’s not true right now or I might want to kiss you.”

I puckered my lips and then approached Cedric to give him a peck.

I smiled.

“Cedric, let’s date. Without anyone else knowing.”

The pen Cedric was holding fell to the floor.