The Merchant and Tavern Master

My Answer

"Cordelia, I have carefully considered everything you shared with me yesterday, as well as our individual circumstances, and above all, my own feelings for you," I mustered the courage to express my thoughts.

Her eyes met mine, gratitude evident in her gaze. "Thank you, Takahiko. And may I inquire about your answer?"

"I do hold affection for you, both as a person and as a woman," I confessed with all sincerity I could convey.

A flicker of surprise crossed Cordelia's face, quickly replaced by her composed demeanor. A gentle smile graced her lips. "Thank you for sharing your feelings with me. But I sense there is more you wish to say, am I correct?"

Calming myself, I took a deep breath, gathering my thoughts before continuing.

"Yes, it's true that we have developed feelings for each other, but I have reservations about entering into a formal relationship."

Cordelia's brows furrowed slightly, a hint of concern in her eyes. "Are you referring to marriage?"

I nodded in agreement. "Yes, exactly. You have already shared your story, and I understand that your past was not your fault at all. It doesn't change how I feel about you."

"..." She silently waited for me to continue.

"If we're going to get married someday, I would like for us to live somewhere where your past has little opportunity to reach you. It's for the well-being of our future children. As for my family, I don't think they will object to my choice, so you don't have to worry."

Cordelia continued to stare at me with a seemingly confused expression.

I paid no heed to her gaze and pressed on with my thoughts.

"Furthermore, I am currently in the pursuit of my dream to become a wealthy man. This dream stems from the fact that my family is in a state of poverty, and I wish to support them. However, if I were to welcome you into my life, then I must provide for you just like my other family members. I understand the responsibility of providing for you. While I acknowledge your independence, it would be unacceptable for me to be unable to offer the necessary financial security to the woman I aspire to protect."

"...huft.." Cordelia appeared to be trembling, as if trying to hold herself together.

"Um... Cordelia?"

"Ahahahahaha!" She suddenly burst into amused laughter.

"Uh, Miss Cordelia, are you alright?"

"Ahahaha... I... I am... ah..hahaha...You're too serious, Takahiko, ahaha.."

"Is there something amusing about what I just said?"

"No... no... Please give me some time."

She took a moment to compose herself and calm her laughter.

"I apologize if it seemed like I was mocking you, but that wasn't my intention. I truly wasn't making fun of you. I just found your seriousness is so.. endearing. It's so much like you. That's the reason I laughed." she continued.

"Is it strange?" I asked, still confused with her reaction.

"Didn't you remember when I said yesterday that I didn't expect you to return my feelings and that I would be content with a good relationship?"

"I do."

"As a merchant, you should understand this. Damaged goods shouldn't be priced the same as new ones. You can't let your emotions cloud your judgment."

"..."

"I don't think I'm qualified to be your wife. You deserve a younger and pure maiden as your wife. I'm content just being one of your friends, someone you can trust."

"That would be impossible, Cordelia."

"!!" Cordelia's eyes hinted with surprise at my words.

"You're right about the comparison with damaged goods, but the value of goods even if they're broken is biased and can vary from person to person. You're not just any woman I encountered during my journey anymore."

"But I... I..." She seemed unsure of what to say.

I spoke with a firm tone, "You entered my life of your own accord, and I won't let you escape the responsibility of making me feel this way."

I could see her shoulders trembling. I understood, because I had experienced the same the day before. So, I decided to encourage her further.

"I want to understand what you truly desire, Cordelia."

She appeared uncertain, her mind still undecided and filled with powerlessness. Without hesitation, I brought my face closer to hers and gently pressed my lips against hers. It was my first kiss, and I couldn't be sure if I was doing it correctly, but that didn't matter at that moment. All I wanted was to convey my sincerity to her.

We shared a lingering kiss, and I could see the surprise in her eyes, most likely she hadn't expected me to take such a bold step. I noticed a few tears escaping from her eyes. Quickly, I pulled away, concerned that I had hurt her.

"I... I'm sorry. Are you hurt? I didn't know how to kiss properly," I apologized, feeling slightly embarrassed.

"It's not because of that, silly," she said, her tears continuing to flow. But it was not tears of sadness, thankfully.

"Are you not angry that I kissed you without permission?" I asked with concern.

Her blush deepened, and she shyly replied, "No... I actually liked it... If I didn't, I wouldn't have stayed close to you."

"When I was in the brothel, I was merely a doll, existing to fulfill the desires of patrons. I didn't feel anything, or rather, I forced myself not to think about it. I never knew that kissing could feel so good.."

A subtle blush graced her cheeks, giving her a rosy and lovely appearance. With every word, she gently nibbled on her lower lip, a small gesture of anticipation and excitement.

"When you kissed me, I felt like a maiden in love. I may not be particularly young anymore, you know... But it was the first time I've ever felt this way.", her voice carried a hint of quiver, as if her emotions were overflowing and she struggled to contain them.

Unable to resist teasing her, I couldn't help but remark, "I must admit, your expression just now was absolutely adorable."

She lightly punched my chest, "Hey, don't tease me!"

"I'm happy that you feel that way," I replied softly, my voice filled with affection. But her next question caught me off guard. I hesitated for a moment, my heart pounding in my chest.

"You won't stop at just that kiss, am I right?" she asked, her voice filled with anticipation.

"..." her question caught me off guard.

"Takahiko, dear? Do you want me?" she asked, her eyes locked with mine.

I hesitated for a moment, but I finally admitted with barely a whisper "..I do".

Hearing my answer, she gracefully positioned herself on the bed, her eyes moist and her cheeks flushed with anticipation. With a tender smile, she extended her hand, inviting me into her embrace.

"Then, come," she whispered softly, her voice filled with desire and trust.

...
...
...

It was a long and passionate night. That's all I can say.