How to Be a Dark Hero’s Daughter

“Do you want to date secretly?”

It’s not a crime unless you get caught.

This is Collen’s belief. When it comes to relationships, as long as there’s no evidence, it’s fine.

“I want to protect Cedric’s reputation.”

“Thank you for considering my reputation, but do you really think I’ll appreciate it?”

However, the corner of Cedric’s mouth was already lifted in amusement.

“So, you dislike it?”

“…”

Cedric’s hand twitched, like a child looking at a tempting treat.

To eat or not to eat? A child debating, fearing scolding from a parent. A child remembering the taste of sweet chocolate.

I just laughed.

“Cedric, do you realize your taste is unique? How does a prince fall for a beggar?”

“Leticia has a peculiar taste too. Because she doesn’t like me.”

It was a cheeky statement, but it was Cedric, the famously handsome one, so I let it slide.

“Where does that confidence come from?”

“Most people tend to like me.”

I chuckled and grabbed the collar of Cedric’s shirt, pulling him closer.

“That’s some evidence-backed confidence. I like you too.”

Cedric’s eyes widened.

“Cedric.”

“…Yes?”

“I meant what I said yesterday. I want to date you.”

“I want to date openly.”

“If we date openly and my Dad finds out, we might have to break up immediately?”

“…”

Cedric’s eyebrows twitched.

“In the long run, looking good to my Dad might be more important.”

“Leticia, you really are…”

I smiled coyly.

“Think about it. A scandal with royalty isn’t good for me either, right?”

“…For now, let’s keep it a secret. Just for now.”

“Okay.”

I couldn’t stop giggling.

“I like you, from the first moment we met until now.”

Cedric leaned in, whispering, and the next moment, I was sitting on the office desk.

Soon, Cedric’s upper lip met my lower one. It was soft, warm, and smelled good.

“Stick out your tongue.”

Cedric whispered.

Our tongues met in mid-air.

I could feel the heat as our breaths mingled. Cedric’s hand firmly grasped mine and pressed it onto the desk.

It was our first kiss. And it was hotter than I had imagined. When Cedric pulled away, my lips were burning.

My heart was pounding so hard; it felt like it would echo throughout the world.

Side Story 2. Cedric

Sometimes Cedric wondered, what would happen if my heart disappeared?

At such times, he would place his hand over his heart.

Thump, thump.

Reassured by the beat of his heart, he’d feel at ease.

“Cedric?”

“Yes, father.”

“It’s rare for you to be lost in thought during a family dinner. Are you tired?”

“No, I’m fine.”

Cedric responded briefly, entirely different from his usual cheerful demeanor around Leticia.

Leticia was mistaken about one thing. Without her, Cedric didn’t show his playful tenderness. He wasn’t light-hearted or lively.

He simply didn’t have a reason to be upset with anyone.

With just a smile or gesture, people easily liked Cedric and willingly did as he wished.

“Ahem. So, you’ve grown old. Even if Ileph is unhealthy, shouldn’t you marry first to uphold the royal family’s dignity?”

“How can I uphold the royal dignity? The royalty is you, father. The royal dignity is already perfect.”

Cedric smiled lightly.

Prince’s perfect defense today! The guards watching from behind admired him.

“How would people look at me, unable to wed a grown child? The princess from the neighboring country married at fifteen. You should be a role model for the young men in this country.”

“Don’t you think you raised your son well? Do you dislike a son who doesn’t waver to others and walks his own path?”

Cedric tilted his head angelically.

“Is there a woman you secretly hold feelings for?”

“Yes.”

Cedric answered calmly.

Everyone in the palace… No, throughout the kingdom, knew Cedric was following Leticia. This was enough to anger the king.