THHAAWMF

Chapter 63

Gerald, who had been silent for a while, avoided my eyes by slanting them down.

He didn't want to give up, nor did he want to fight because of it.

'Idiot.'

I clicked my tongue in my mind.

Gerald was not really interested in the post. Nevertheless, he could not give up because of Isabella's greed.

More talk seemed to go unanswered. So I chuckled and took another sip of wine.

Unsettled and alone, Gerald reached for my hand.

"Don't drink anymore. You look drunk."

"I'm not drunk."

I drank the wine, avoiding Gerald's attempts to take my glass. Then I licked my grape-tasting lips in an attempt to find him and murmured as he passed.

"I've heard it is said that if two siblings fight over the heir apparent, one of the two will disappear... what do you think? I bet you've had plenty to drink, can't you help me?"

"Huh?"

Gerald freaked out. Then, he took the glass I was holding and harshly criticized me.

"Say something that makes sense. How can I do that to you!"

"Because if not you, someone who wants to raise you as the successor could have such an idea-"

"You've had a lot to drink. Let's get up and talk."

An angry Gerald stopped me as if he didn't want to hear anymore.

I don't think he's acting, and he really doesn't seem to know. He would be surprised to know what his own mother thinks.

Ding- ding- ding-

It was then that the bell rang signaling the start of the auction.

Gerald and I reflexively looked toward the curtains.

There were scrolls in the auction, as well as items to be sold under Luminous's name.

So I got up to leave, and... Oh, why is it so dopey? Why does the world keep spinning?

Gerald caught me staggering and asked anxiously,

"Are you okay?"

"Yes."

Now, both wine bottles on the table were empty. When did I drink it all? I tried to walk alone, but the ground kept moving. I reached out to Gerald.

"Help me."

"That's why I told you to drink moderately."

"I drank moderately."

With a pop, we headed for the place where the auction was to take place. I found Leather sitting there looking exhausted and sat next to him.

Gerald tried to sit next to me, but his friend called him over and he walked away on the other side.

Leather, seeing me completely drunk, acted dutifully.

"Good luck."

"Thank you. Isabella?"

"Well..."

Leather said, his words trailing off, and he leaned toward me quickly. I leaned toward Leather as he did.

We were so close that we could even hear each other's breathing, and someone would think we were dating from behind.

"As expected, she's going to move today."