Mr. & Mrs Meropide

Chapter Forty-Two: Eavesdropping

The next day:

The duke made his way into the city, determined to improve his TCG deck. After his previous games with Clorinde and Vire, he was bent on beating them next time. He asked around and learned that certain cards could be won by completing automated challenges scattered throughout the city. With a relaxed attitude, he blended in with the other citizens, having left his formal duke attire back at the fortress.

As he strolled through the lively streets, enjoying the energy of Fontaine, he made a quick stop at Maria's workplace. They chatted briefly, and she admitted that she played TCG with her colleagues, though she wasn't having much success. "I'll help you out after work," the duke had suggested, promising to find some better cards in the meantime. Maria smiled and agreed, appreciating his support.

As Wriothesley continued his search for new cards, a woman suddenly approached him, looking a bit nervous but determined. "Excuse me," she began, her voice a little shaky. "I saw you, and I thought you were very handsome, and... well, I was wondering if you'd like to go on a date with me?"

Her bravery was admirable, and Wriothesley couldn't help but be honest. "I'm flattered," he said sincerely. "But I'm afraid I have to disappoint you—I'm married." It was a small lie, meant to spare her feelings.

"Oh!" She seemed taken aback, clearly not expecting that. "I didn't see a ring, so I didn't know. I would never hit on a married man on purpose," she said, her face flushing with embarrassment.

He gave her a warm smile, hoping to ease her discomfort. "That's because we have matching tattoos instead of rings," he explained smoothly. "But I'm sure a stunning lady like yourself will meet a nice gentleman in the future." If she ever saw him again, she wouldn't wonder why he wasn't wearing a ring, and the harmless lie would save both of them any future awkwardness.

She smiled, clearly relieved, before wishing him a good day and walking away.

As Wriothesley continued his hunt for TCG cards, he couldn't help but feel amused by the situation. What he didn't realize, however, was that someone had been watching and overheard his conversation from nearby.

Wriothesley caught himself smiling as he checked his reflection in a nearby window display. The woman's compliment had left him feeling a bit flattered, and he wondered for a moment if Clorinde thought the same. He had no clue what her type was, and trying to figure it out was tricky. If only he could ask her about her crush—but, of course, he wasn't supposed to know about that.

Still, her crush had seemingly rejected her, which meant there could be an opportunity for him. Wriothesley wasn't the type to let such chances slip by. Should he be direct with her? Maybe buy her some flowers, or just keep spending time with her, testing the waters? The possibilities ran through his mind as he walked through the bustling streets of Fontaine.

His attention shifted when he spotted one of the TCG challenge signs in front of a small shop. Curious, he stepped inside, drawn by the prospect of earning some new cards. The challenge was fun and engaging, and as Wriothesley played through it, he realized how effective it was in drawing in customers.

After completing the challenge, he glanced around the store. His eyes landed on a shelf filled with imported goods, and something caught his attention—Inazuman candy. He had heard about it but never tried it before. Curious, he picked up a pack and made his way to the counter, buying it along with a few cards.

As he left the store, his mind wandered back to Clorinde. Maybe he'd bring her the candy—something small but thoughtful. He'd play it cool for now, hanging out more and seeing where things went. Testing the waters seemed like the safest bet.