Transcending Fate (Transmigrated to an Otome Game)

Breakfast Tensions

As Alaric entered the dining hall, his eyes met with both Cedric and Gabriel.

He was momentarily shocked but quickly regained his composure and took a seat. He also noticed that Cedric was wearing the brooch he had given him, causing Alaric to blush.

"Good morning, Alaric. Did you sleep well? Any problems?" Cedric asked, his voice gentle yet authoritative.

Alaric thanked the Duke. "Good morning, Your Grace. I slept well, thank you."

Gabriel chimed in, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "No headache this morning, I assume? I performed a blessing on you last night."

Alaric blushed slightly, feeling a warmth spread through him. "Thank you, Father Gabriel."

Cedric's expression tightened ever so slightly, a hint of jealousy flickering in his eyes. "Yes, when I tucked you under the covers, Father Gabriel asked if he could give you a blessing since you were drunk."

This territorial proclamation irked Gabriel, but no one could decipher the silent exchange between the Duke and the priest.

Alaric, oblivious to the undercurrents, thanked them both again and apologized for causing any trouble.

"It's no problem," Cedric replied, a deep emotion passing through his eyes that Alaric didn't notice, but Gabriel did. "You're always welcome here."

Gabriel shifted the topic smoothly. "Will you be coming to church this Sunday with your father, Alaric?"

"Yes, I will," Alaric replied.

As the food was served, Alaric's attention was immediately captured by the spread.

His eyes sparkled like a kitten's at the sight of the delicious dishes, eliciting certain emotions in both Gabriel and Cedric.

"Is the food to your taste?" Cedric asked, watching Alaric's delighted expression.

"Yes, it's wonderful," Alaric replied, savoring every bite.

Cedric gave a signal to his servant, and after a short while, a beautiful cake was brought in. Alaric's eyes lit up brightly at the sight of it, and he eagerly enjoyed the treat. Unbeknownst to him, a bit of cream was left on his mouth.

"Alaric, there's some cream on your mouth," Gabriel pointed out, causing Alaric to blush and hurriedly lick the cream off.

The sight of Alaric's pink tongue caught the attention of both Cedric and Gabriel. A current of desire passed through Gabriel, and Cedric's heart beat faster. They both wanted to see more but quickly masked their reactions as Alaric looked up, confused.

Gabriel wore a slight smile, and Cedric returned to his stoic expression as if nothing had happened. After finishing the meal, Alaric thanked them both and said he should return to the mansion.

"Don't worry," Cedric said. "I've already sent a message back home that you're staying here. A carriage is ready to take you whenever you're ready."

Despite some reluctance in Cedric's eyes, he arranged for Alaric's departure. As Alaric left, Cedric turned to Gabriel.

"Let's see what our pure priest wants to talk about," Cedric said, his tone challenging.

Gabriel's smile was enigmatic as they headed to the study, leaving behind the lingering tension and unspoken desires.