Stronger Than She Was: A Be My Princess x My Sweet Bodyguard Crossover

Chapter 7 - The Decision

Kiri's Pov

Two Months Later (Graduation)

Today is the day I finally graduate with my degrees in politics and economics. I was asked to speak at the commencement ceremony this afternoon, and I can't help but wish that my mom was still here. She's the one that always encouraged me to do my best. I just wish she could see how I turned out.

"Ready to go?" Kaiji asks me from the doorway of my bedroom. He and Mizuki stayed behind to guard me for the past two months in case something were to happen. Of course, with them here, it's been harder to conceal my identity.

"Yeah," I say as I zip up my black regalia. Kaiji and I walk down the hallway, and I almost walk into Zain as I turn the corner.

"Miss Kiri," Zain says as he takes a step back. "Are you on your way to the graduation ceremony?"

"Yes," I smile shyly. After it was decided Kaiji and Mizuki would be staying, we were forced to let Lord Michael know about my heritage. He promised not to tell Zain or anyone else. As a result, Zain has been on guard around me because he knows I'm keeping some sort of secret. I can see the uncertainty in his eyes as he speaks again.

"Would you mind if I attended the ceremony as well?"

I can't hide my smile as I nod. "I'd like that." Maybe he wants to be my friend again? I mean, we were never really friends, but maybe things can go back to normal.

"I'll meet you there then," he offers a small smile and walks down the hall. I watch his back as he retreats.

With a playful nudge, Kaiji escorts me to the car where Mizuki is already behind the wheel. He teases me about Zain as we drive to the auditorium where commencement is being held.

After the boys drop me off, I find my place in line and get ready for the ceremony. After today, I'll decide whether to become my father's daughter or not. I'm not sure I'm ready for either choice.

Vittori's POV

Today is the day Kiri graduates from university. I've only known her a couple of months, but I can feel the fatherly pride swelling in my chest. We've been skyping almost every other day, and it's been a wonderful experience thus far. However, I have no idea what her decision will be tomorrow.

I turn on my personal laptop and open a Skype message from Mizuki. He will be recording the ceremony so I can watch it in real-time. I would have gone to the ceremony myself, except Kiri said 'no,' and it's too much of a security risk.

After several minutes, Kiri stood to speak. At first, I was confused; she didn't tell me she'd be speaking. Then again, she might have told me she didn't want me to go because she would be embarrassed.

Her speech was phenomenal. She spoke with a practiced ease and natural grace befitting a queen. I wonder if she inherited it from me.

Before I know it, her speech is over. The graduating students parade across the stage to receive their diplomas, and soon the ceremony ends. I may have only known Kiri for a few months, but I am so proud of her. I guess this is what one would call this 'fatherly pride.'

I end the call and return to my work. Tonight, Kiri will make her decision about becoming my daughter. I hope that no matter what her decision is she stays a part of my life.

Kiri's POV

Later That Night

I'm pacing the floor of my room. I just got back from a graduation party that some of the staff at Noble Michel put together. I've been here for fifteen years, and everyone is like family to me. They've been with me through it all. My first crush. The first time I broke a bone. Dance recitals and school plays. It's been a journey.