Extra Chapter: Anime Celebration

228. The One I Find Myself Following — Elliot

Every now and then, a daily life story like this is nice.

Episode 3 of the anime airs today at 23:00!

I pick up the documents already reviewed by Lord Aquasteed and instruct the civil officials to return them to their respective departments. Checking the time, it is a calm afternoon—perfect for Lord Aquasteed to have tea with Lady TiaraRose.

“Lord Aquasteed. The weather is lovely; how about having tea in the garden today?”

“Let’s do that.”

Having received his approval, I tell the maids to make the preparations and leave the office. The plan is to go pick up Lady TiaraRose first and then escort her to the garden.

Tarmo was on standby in front of Lady TiaraRose’s room, so I inform him of the tea party invitation to have him pass the word. Permission to enter was granted by Philine immediately.

As Lord Aquasteed entered the room, Lady TiaraRose smiled joyfully.

“The weather is so nice today, I thought we might have tea in the garden.”

“Of course, Lord Aqua.”

With her nod, Lord Aquasteed escorts Lady TiaraRose toward the garden. Tarmo walks at the front, followed by Lord Aquasteed and Lady TiaraRose, with Philine and me following behind them.

Upon arriving in the garden, Philine receives the tea set prepared by the maids and begins the service.

I find myself reflexively following her with my eyes.

Being Lady TiaraRose’s personal maid, Philine’s movements are beautiful. Her actions are swift yet silent, and she always puts Lady TiaraRose first. I once heard from Lady TiaraRose that Philine is like a sister to her. One can tell from the atmosphere between them that they cherish and respect one another.

“Elliot.”

“Yes?”

Philine suddenly calls my name, making me blink in surprise. Looking over, I see she has already finished serving the tea and cake.

“It seems today’s cake is a new creation from the head chef. Would you like some as well, Elliot?”

The whole cake in Philine’s hands is a white chocolate and strawberry shortcake. Lord Aquasteed and Lady TiaraRose are enjoying it as they chat happily. Lady TiaraRose looks over and nods at us, so she surely wants Philine and me to have some of the delicious cake as well.

“Since you’ve offered, I’ll have some. Let’s eat together, Philine.”

“Eh? No, I…”

Philine starts to shake her head, intending to stay on duty for Lady TiaraRose. However, Lady TiaraRose shoots her a look that says “Go ahead,” signaling her desire for Philine to eat.

Philine’s troubled expression is a little different from her usual dignified self, making me want to watch her just a bit longer.

…Wait, I shouldn’t be thinking such things.

“I’ll slice a piece for you, Philine.”

“Elliot!?”

To the flustered Philine, I say with a smile, “Let’s join them for once,” and slice the cake.

End of 228