𝐌𝐈𝐃𝐍𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓 𝐁𝐑𝐈𝐃𝐄 • k. ayato

03

☄. *. ⋆

Despite his promise, he did not show up.

The guards told her that he left shortly after her father retired to the guest chambers. Was this his way of telling her to stay still and allow him to continue his duties? If so, then what was all that talk about him not being heartless? Contrary to popular opinion, she wanted to find love eventually. Even in a forced marriage, she wanted to at least be on good terms with her husband, but it seemed as though he didn't.

And naturally, she wasn't about to go out of her way to maintain a good relationship with him. A marriage is supposed to be a bond between two people wherein both of them put effort into maintaining the relationship and establishing boundaries.

And he has already crossed hers without even trying.

Such a man was not for her.

"Milady, you look stunning," said one of the maids dressing her up in her wedding attire. She had a sweet voice and was sun-kissed. She was lovely.

"It would be rather dismal if I did not, wouldn't it?"

The maid let out a chuckle as her hands moved craftily, "Not at all, milady. From today onwards you will be ours to take care of, and what kind of servants would we be if we did not care and love our lady the way she is?"

The other maids were quick to nod their heads in agreement, "Exactly."

[Y/N]'s smile was one of happiness growing, much as a spring flower opens. The maids could see how it came from deep inside to light her eyes and spread into every part of her. They were glad they could carry out the commissioner's order on making his bride-to-be comfortable and happy successfully. Of course, that is not to say they didn't mean the words they said.

"Say, what is your name, little one?"

"Oh! My name is Akiko, milady," She replied happily.

[Y/N] folded her hands, "Akiko... Meaning bright, yes?"

"Yes! You are correct."

Akiko noticed [Y/N] looking pleased, a soft sense of happiness had made itself at home in her features. Naturally, the maid concluded that her lady was happy about being correct, as many people would, but something about the way she closed her eyes and spread her lips into a proud smile made Akiko happier than usual.

"Your name suits you quite well, Akiko."

"Oh, thank you, milady!"

Two hours had passed since the start of the dress-up, and Akiko finally let out an exhale.

"It is done, milady. Please, look into the mirror," her tone indicated that the maid was proud of the work she had done, so [Y/N] was left curious about how she looked.

She stood in front of the big full-body mirror and her heart skipped a beat.

"Akiko... you ladies are truly skilled. I'm ashamed to say this, but I did not expect you to be able to do this."

Akiko bowed her head, "It is our honor to serve you."

"We're very glad you're happy, milady," Said another one of the maids. And the others soon followed in agreement. [Y/N]'s chambers were now as bright and cheery as the sun, something she did not have back at home. She couldn't quite believe that these maids who have only just now met her loved her so very much already.

She was fully prepared to go through the treacherous pursuit of loyalty once more. As the respect back at home was hard-earned.

"It is almost time. Please, follow us."