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Story Event－Wish Upon a Star（Alyn）

◆ Select a Suitor ◆
Who will you choose?
Choose and your story will start.

＞＞＞Choose Alyn

Alyn, Chapter 1, Part 1/5：

（If my wish could come true—）

I stared up at the clear sky through the telescope, my thoughts drifting aimlessly.
As I considered making a wish, I glanced at the person standing next to me.
Alyn was staring up at the starry night sky as well.
His expression was serious, his gaze intense, and a soft breeze ruffled his hair.
Something about the look on his face reminded me of something he'd said before that had made me happy.
Alyn：I won't let you go.
His words had been gruff yet sweet, much like Alyn himself.
I found myself smiling at the thought, and I looked up at the sky again.

（I want to be that sort of woman.
（The sort of woman Alyn wants to have by his side, always.）

I closed my eyes briefly as I made my wish, but when I opened them again—

（What the...?）

The star we were all there to see seemed to flash with a much brighter light, just for a moment.
I blinked up at it in confusion, my eyes wide.
But everything looked just as it had a moment earlier, as if nothing had happened.

（I'm totally imagining things, aren't I?）

＊＊＊

The next day—
I was having my usual riding lesson with Alyn.
Alyn：Not like that.
Alyn said crisply, reaching out towards the reins of the horse I was riding.
Jily：Waah!

Alyn, Chapter 1, Part 2/5：

Jily：Waah!
I swayed in the saddle, and Alyn reached around me to grip the reins.
Alyn：Listen, hold the reins more tightly.
Jily：Okay.
I could feel Alyn's body pressed up directly against mine from behind.
The warmth of him so close to me was far too distracting.

（How can I concentrate when you're sitting so close?）

I tried to focus on the lesson, but I couldn't just ignore his presence right there.
Alyn：Hey, are you listening?
Alyn was suddenly leaning around me, looking right at me from up close.
Jily：Ahh!
I blushed in surprise, startled by how close his face was and by my own hyperawareness of him.
Alyn frowned a little as he looked at me.
Alyn：This is hardly the time to be blushing about stuff.
He sighed softly, and then pulled back a little.
I could feel his breath against my ear, and there was a teasing tone in his voice now as he whispered.
Alyn：Stop thinking naughty things during lessons. It's dangerous.
Jily：I'm not!

（It's just because you got so close to me! Really! Well, kind of...）

I turned my head to look at him, wanting to say something back.
But right at that moment I heard Nico's flustered voice calling to me.
Nico：Jily!

Alyn, Chapter 1, Part 3/5：

Nico：Jily!
Nico came rushing towards us, looking harried.
Jily：Nico? What is it?
Nico：Please hurry and come to the study.

＊＊＊

We ended the lesson there and hurried straight to the study, where we found Leo and Giles waiting.

（I wonder what happened?）

I chewed my lower lip, feeling anxiety pooling in my belly.
Alyn placed a gentle hand on top of my head, the touch reassuring.
Then he stepped closer to Leo and Giles.
Alyn：Hurry up and tell us what happened. You're making Jily anxious.
His words were gruff and crisp.
Leo：Ahh, sorry, sorry. Actually—
Leo went on to explain the reason I'd been called to the study so suddenly.
If the princess doesn't quit, I will take her life.
According to Leo, a letter containing those words had been delivered that morning.
Leo：Ahh, sometimes we just get things like this.
There was exasperation in Leo's voice, and then Giles handed the letter to me.
Giles：When we investigate letters like these, we usually find out that they're some kind of malicious prank.
Giles：However, this one seems to be different.
Jily：Why is that?
I couldn't imagine what he might mean.
I opened the letter he held out to me, but I couldn't see anything unusual beyond the awful words themselves.
Leo：Considering the other details written there, we can only assume it's someone in the palace.
Jily：Wait, what?!
Giles：I realize it's problematic, but for now I don't want to overreact.
Giles：I would like you to continue with your normal routine, with Alyn as your bodyguard.
I nodded quietly, not sure what else to say, and then glanced at Alyn.
He was silent, his expression thoughtful as he gazed at Giles.

Alyn, Chapter 1, Part 4/5：

Alyn was making his way back to his room.
As he did so, Leo called out from behind, stopping him.
Leo：Alyn.
Leo calmly handed Alyn a small piece of parchment, doing his best to make sure no one else noticed.
Alyn took the piece of parchment silently, glancing down.
He scanned what was written there quickly, and then closed his fist around it.
He looked back up at Leo again, his gaze intense.
Leo：If you've read it, then get going.
Without waiting for an answer, Leo continued on his way down the corridor.
That evening—
I sat down in front of the vanity to brush my hair before bed.
But I couldn't stop thinking about the letter and what Giles and Leo had said about it.

（Even if it's just some awful prank, it's still someone in the palace.
（I'm not sure I'm gonna be able to sleep.）

I could feel the anxiety lurking deep inside, and my shoulders slumped slowly.
There was a sudden knock at the door, and I jumped in surprise.
The door opened, and Alyn stepped into the room.
Jily：Alyn? Is something the matter? It's awfully late.
Alyn ignored my surprise as he strode across the room towards me.
I turned around in my chair to face him as he stopped in front of me.
Alyn：C'mon, let's go.
Jily：What? Where are we going?
Instead of answering, Alyn reached down and took me by the hand.

Alyn, Chapter 1, Part 5/5：

Alyn had put us both on a horse, and soon we were riding through the forest.
Alyn：Hold on tight.
Alyn urged the horse to run faster, and I clung tightly to him as it swayed under us.
The stars in the sky above seemed to be watching over us as we galloped through the trees.

＊＊＊

Before long we arrived at a small villa near the border of Wysteria.
We dismounted from the horse and Alyn led me inside.
He held my hand tightly as we walked through the dim corridors.
There was no one else there, and the sound of our footsteps echoed loudly in the stillness.
Jily：Alyn—
I stopped walking at last, determined to ask him what was going on.
But before I could say anything, Alyn offered me a small piece of parchment.
Alyn：Here.
I took the parchment and looked down at the words scribbled on it.
I read them aloud as I glanced up at Alyn again.
Jily：Take the princess to a safe place...?
Alyn：Yeah. There's someone suspicious in the palace, right?
Alyn：So this is what Leo and Giles decided.
Jily：I see.

（And if it was said out loud and someone overheard it, then that would ruin the plan, right?）

I nodded slowly, and then followed after Alyn as he began to walk down the corridor again.
Alyn：You know.
Alyn stopped in front of a door, and then looked back at me as if he wanted to say something.
Jily：Yes?

Alyn, Chapter 2, Part 1/5：

Alyn：You know.
Alyn looked back at me, his expression serious and intense.
Alyn：Whatever happens, I'll protect you.
Alyn：So don't go overthinking things and worrying so much.

（Oh, Alyn.）

I felt a sudden sense of relief blossoming inside me at his quiet words.
I nodded awkwardly, and then smiled brightly up at him.
Jily：Thank you.
Alyn：I'll just be in the next room, so yell if you need me.
Alyn made sure I was settled in my room, and then left again.
The door shut behind him, and I looked down at myself and remembered that I'd been getting ready for bed when we left.

（Well, I guess I should have a bath, then.）

＊＊＊

I returned to my room after my bath, and glanced up at the clock.
The hands were already past midnight, and I frowned a little.

（I wonder if Alyn had any time to have a bath before he left?
（I know it's late, but I should at least let him know the bathroom is free.）

I dried my hair a little with the towel to stop it dripping, and then knocked on Alyn's door.
Jily：Alyn?
Alyn：What?
I opened the door, and saw Alyn sitting on the sofa, his eyes only just open.
Jily：I've finished in the bathroom, if you wanted to have a bath.
Alyn：Okay.
I crossed over to the sofa and looked down at him.
He sat up a little, reaching up to catch a lock of my hair between his fingers.
Alyn：Your hair's still wet.
Jily：Yeah, I know.
He was only touching my hair, but something about the action set my heart pounding.
Alyn：Make sure you dry it properly.
Jily：I know. I just wanted to let you know the bath was free. I'm going back to my room now.
Alyn：Hmmm.
Alyn looked up at me, blinking slowly, and I felt captivated by the intensity in his gaze.

（Alyn—）

A moment later his face moved towards mine.

Alyn, Chapter 2, Part 2/5：

（Alyn—）

Alyn's face moved towards mine, and our lips came together in a soft kiss.
My heart was pounding, and as our lips parted, I spoke softly.
Jily：Thank you for today. Goodnight.
I turned towards the door, because I knew if I didn't I'd want to stay for another kiss, and another.
Alyn：Wait.
Jily：Yes?
Alyn caught hold of my hand, stopping me from moving away from him.
Alyn：I can hardly let you go at a time like this.
His arms wrapped around me from behind, his voice husky in my ear.
Alyn：Besides, I already had a bath.
His body pressed warm against my back, and his lips nuzzled against my neck.
Alyn：Stay here with me tonight.
Happiness flooded through me, and I found myself smiling brightly.
I turned around in his embrace, reaching up to wrap my arms around his neck.

＊＊＊

The next morning—

（The weather sure is nice today!）

I'd been woken by a gentle breeze caressing my skin.
The bright sunlight had been like a siren call and soon I found myself out in the garden.
Alyn：You sure are lively this morning.
I turned in surprise to find Alyn walking towards me.
Jily：Alyn! You're awake.
Alyn：Yep.
Alyn：We still gotta go and get food, yaknow.
Jily：We do?

（Does that mean I'm going with you?）

I looked hopefully up at him, and he smirked, as if reading my thoughts.
Alyn：I can hardly leave you alone right now, can I?
He reached out and gently ruffled my hair, and I smiled at him.
Jily：Nope.

（Gosh, it's so nice to be able to spend all my time with you like this.）

I knew I wasn't meant to be enjoying this, but I felt warmed inside with happiness and contentment.
As we stood there smiling at each other, I suddenly remembered the wish I'd made.

（And now Alyn's here by my side, protecting me.
（No, there's no way that actually came true... is there?）

Alyn, Chapter 2, Part 3/5：

We crossed the border of Wysteria, and entered a town on the far side.

（I know we're in a different country now, but I didn't expect it to feel so different.）

We visited the stores, and Alyn picked out food items with a practiced air.
His expression was calm as he decided our purchases, and I watched him curiously.
Jily：Do you always buy your own food when you go on campaigns?
Alyn：Yeah, pretty much.
Alyn was looking over a fruit stall as he answered me.
He picked up a bright red apple and turned to face me with a smirk.
Alyn：This makes me think of you.
Alyn：How your cheeks turn all rosy-red when I tease you.
His eyes were sparkling as he leaned closer to me, and I mock-pouted at him.
Jily：Geez, Alyn!
I laughed, pushing at his shoulder, when suddenly—
There was a loud thump, right next to me.
Jily：What the?!
I turned to see that a young woman had collapsed on the ground right next to the stall.
Jily：Alyn—!
I caught hold of Alyn's arm, and hurried closer to the girl.
Jily：Are you all right?
But her eyes were shut, and she gave no sign of having heard me.
Alyn：Hang on.
Alyn handed me the food we'd already bought, and I hastily took it.
He crouched down and lifted the woman in his arms, cradling her against him.
I chewed my lip as I watched him stand up.
I knew it was silly, but a little part of me ached to see another woman in his arms.
Alyn looked around at the people who were gathering around the fallen girl.
Alyn：Hey, stop staring and tell me where to take her!

Alyn, Chapter 2, Part 4/5：

The people gave us directions to a nearby doctor, and we hurriedly took the young woman there.

（I hope she's okay!）

I was so anxious I couldn't sit still, so I paced the room.
At last the doctor came out and explained the situation to us.
Doctor：I don't know exactly what caused her to pass out like that.
Doctor：But I'm sure she'll be fine if she rests and takes it easy for a while.
Jily：Oh, thank goodness!
I felt relief running through me to know that she'd be okay.
But then the doctor frowned, his face clouding with concern.
Doctor：However, unfortunately we don't have enough beds available right now—
I looked around in surprise, and finally noticed that the place was crowded and the nurses looked rushed off their feet.
I looked up at the doctor's troubled expression, and that was enough to decide me.
Jily：Let's take her back to the villa with us.
Alyn：What?
Alyn's eyes widened in surprise as he stared down at me.
Jily：Well, we can't just leave her like this.
Alyn pressed his lips together, his expression flat.
Jily：Alyn, please.
I stared up at him with wide eyes, begging him to understand.
Alyn：Fine, whatever you want.
Alyn gave a soft side, and then shrugged with resignation.

＊＊＊

The young woman had told us her name was Esther, and she lay in the bed, looking small and tired.
Esther：Thank you so much.
Jily：Don't worry about it. Just get some rest.
Esther：Okay.
She closed her eyes and relaxed into the soft bed.
I smiled to myself as I stood up and left the room.
That evening—

（I hope she gets better soon, poor thing.）

I stood in the room, staring wistfully out the window into the gardens.
As I did so, I saw two figures step into my field of vision.

（Hmm? That's Alyn, and—）

I caught my breath as I recognized the second figure next to him.

（And Esther?）

Alyn, Chapter 2, Part 5/5：

Esther had asked Alyn to help her step outside for a breath of fresh air.
Alyn decided to stay with her for the moment to keep an eye on her.
Esther：Really, thank you so much for saving me.
She seemed entirely different to how she'd been earlier.
She was calm and composed, and Alyn frowned a little as he replied shortly.
Alyn：Sure thing.

＊＊＊

Before I knew it, I was hurrying down to the gardens.

（Ahh, what am I doing?）

I stopped myself and took a deep breath, turning to head back to my room.
Then I heard Alyn's voice from amidst the nearby trees.
Alyn：Hey!
Esther：I'm sorry.
I saw Alyn supporting the stumbling Esther, and I felt that queasy ache in my tummy again.
Esther leaned against Alyn's chest, her expression relieved.
She looked up at him with a smile.
Esther：But I'm glad you helped me.
Alyn said nothing as he looked down at her, his expression serious.
I couldn't stand to watch any longer, and I turned and hurried away.

（I didn't realize I'd get so worked up just seeing someone else in Alyn's arms like that.）

As I hurried back through the gardens, I caught sight of the stars spread out in the sky overhead.

（Wait a minute. They said the star likes to play pranks.
（Is that what this is?）

Jily：This prank—it's too mean. Please—
I stopped and looked up at the star, whispering words that were more plea than anything.

＊＊＊

Meanwhile—
Alyn and Esther walked down the corridor on their way back to her room.
As they turned a corridor, Alyn caught sight of a fallen earring, glittering on the floor.
He blinked down at it with surprise.
Esther：Is something wrong?
Alyn：No.
Alyn leaned over and picked the earring up before she could see it, tucking it in his pocket.
Alyn：You know.
Esther：Yes?
Esther smiled up at Alyn as he turned to face her.
He ignored her smile, his expression remaining serious as he spoke.
Alyn：What exactly are you planning by doing this?

Alyn, Chapter 3, Part 1/5：

Alyn：What exactly are you planning by doing this?
Esther：What?!
Esther stared up at Alyn with wide eyes, and then her gaze slid away from him.
Alyn：You collapsed on purpose because you knew she was there, right?
Esther：You—
Esther's face turned bright red, and then she scowled at Alyn.
Alyn：If something happens to her, I'm not gonna let you off just because you're a woman.
Alyn turned his back on her and walked away without another word.
Esther：That princess... I hate her so much...
Esther scowled as she watched Alyn's retreating figure.

＊＊＊

I returned to my room and tried to get ready for bed.
No matter how much I tried to think of other things, my mind just kept replaying what I'd seen.
Alyn：Hey!

（Oh, Alyn—）

My heart was aching, and I wrapped my arms around myself.
There was a sudden loud knock at the door, and it opened a moment later.
Alyn：I'm coming in.
Alyn didn't wait for my answer before stepping into the room and crossing towards me.
Alyn：You dropped this.
Jily：Oh!
I stared down at the earring in his hand, and only then did I reach up to my ear and realize that it was gone.
I silently took the earring and put it back on, and Alyn sighed softly.
Alyn：If you were there, why didn't you say something?
Jily：Well, I just—

（I couldn't stand the sight of seeing her in your arms.
（But I can't say that. It sounds silly.）

I felt ashamed of my own feelings, and I couldn't think of a thing to say.
I pressed my lips together, and Alyn smiled a little and reached out towards me.

Alyn, Chapter 3, Part 2/5：

Alyn smirked a little and reached towards me, flicking me lightly on the forehead.
Jily：Ow! Alyn!
Alyn：Geez. If you don't say anything, how am I supposed to understand?
Alyn：Never mind. Hurry up and get some sleep.
Jily：Okay.
I hated to let him leave when the mood was so uncomfortable between us.
But I couldn't think of the right words to say to make it better.
I stood there in silence and watched as he walked out of the room and shut the door behind him.

＊＊＊

The next morning—
As I was walking down the corridor, I saw Esther stepping out of her room up ahead of me.
Esther：Thank you again, so much.
She smiled and curtseyed when she saw me, and I smiled back at her, feeling relieved.
Jily：Not at all. I'm glad you seem to be feeling better.
Jily：I'll just get Alyn so he can see you safely back home—
Esther：Actually—
Esther interrupted me, her tone of voice surprisingly firm.
Esther：I'd like to ask you about something. Is it okay if we talk for a bit, just the two of us?
I agreed, and we made our way out to the gardens.
Jily：So what is it you wanted to talk about?
We were alone and away from the villa, and to my surprise Esther's expression changed to something cold and flat.
Esther：Princess.
Esther：Don't you remember me? Not even a bit?

Alyn, Chapter 3, Part 3/5：

Right at that moment—
Sid arrived at Wysteria Palace with some information for Giles and Leo.
Sid：I figured out who wrote that letter.
Leo and Giles nodded silently, waiting for him to continue.
Sid：I was starting to think I'd never figure it out no matter how much I searched.
Sid：But here ya go. It's this woman.
Giles stared silently down at the document Sid presented them.
Leo：Well, that's a surprise. I totally thought it was a guy.

＊＊＊

Esther glanced around us, and when she spoke her voice was colder and more sharp than I'd ever heard it.
Esther：Don't you remember me? Not even a bit?
Jily：I'm sorry?

（You're completely different from how you were when we first spoke!）

Esther stepped towards me, and I could feel the anger coming off her in waves.
Esther：I was meant to be the one who was chosen.
Esther：I was meant to be the princess!

（Wait a minute—）

Jily：Were you at the palace when they gathered everyone to choose the princess?
I spoke hesitantly, and she gave me a thin, sneering smile.
Esther：Oh, yes. I was sure the princess system was finally my chance to get what I deserved.
Esther：Why did someone like YOU have to be chosen?!
Her words were like a dagger through my heart.

（The truth is, anyone could've been chosen that day. It might not have been me.
（But it was.）

She was glaring at me hard enough to hurt, but I straightened my back and met her stare.
Jily：What happened happened, and I'm doing my best to make sure Wysteria is a good place.
Esther：Oh, shut up!
Esther raised her hand in anger as if she was going to hit me, when—
Alyn：That's enough.

Alyn, Chapter 3, Part 4/5：

Alyn：That's enough.
Alyn caught hold of Esther's raised hand, twisting it behind her back.
Esther：Why are you—
Esther turned towards Alyn, her face still furious.
Alyn replied quietly, his calm voice cutting her off.
Alyn：I told you.
Alyn：If something happens to her, I'm not gonna let you off just because you're a woman.
His tone of voice was serious and intense, and somehow it seemed to cut through Esther's rage.
She sank down onto the ground, her expression crumbling.
I stared down at her, no idea what to say.

＊＊＊

We returned to the palace and reported on what had happened.
Then Alyn tended to my wounds.
Alyn：Does it hurt?
Jily：A little.
I did my best to sound strong, but the truth was that the pain was really bad.
Alyn：Geez. Can't be helped, huh?
Alyn muttered under his breath and then began to remove my tights.
Jily：Alyn—
Alyn：Shush. Sit still.
His quiet words and his serious gaze set my heart pounding.

（Ahh, this feels so weird.）

At that moment, there was a sudden knock at the door, and someone entered the room.

Alyn, Chapter 3, Part 5/5：

The door opened, and Leo and Giles stepped into the room.
I hastily pulled myself away from Alyn, blushing faintly.
Leo：That must've been rough, Jily.
Giles：Evidently she's been holding a grudge against you all this time, just because she wasn't chosen.
Giles：We must investigate and find out how she knew what was going on inside the palace.
Giles's expression was thoughtful, and I sat up straight and looked right up at him.
Jily：Giles, I want you to excuse her for what she did.
Giles and Leo both stared at me, their expressions mirroring their surprise.
I could clearly remember Esther's intense glare, yet I couldn't find it in me to be angry at her.

（All she really wanted was to be the princess.）

Jily：And I want you to tell her something for me.
Jily：Please tell her I will do my best to be the sort of princess she hopes for.
Giles's expression relaxed at my words, a faint smile touching his lips.
Giles：Very well.
Leo：That's just like you, Jily.
Leo smiled at me as well, his eyes gentle.
Leo：Okay, we'll go and sort the rest out.
Leo：You two should stay here and relax together, nice and private.
Alyn：Shuddup.
Their smiles were entirely too knowing as they walked out of the room, shutting the door behind them.
Alyn：You know.
Jily：Yes?
Alyn was frowning a little, and his voice was soft as he spoke.
Alyn：When I say that I'll always protect you, no matter what—
Alyn：You're the only one I feel that way about.
Jily：Alyn—
As I stared up at him, I remembered the wish I'd made on the star.

（I never even needed to make that wish, did I? You already felt that way.
（Maybe the star played that prank on me to teach me that?）

The surety in his gaze sent happiness spiraling through me, and I smiled up at him.
Jily：Thank you.

（I'm so glad to know how you really feel.）

Alyn wrapped me in a warm embrace, hiding his face in my shoulder.
He whispered against my ear, his voice husky and a little gruff.
Alyn：I won't say anything that embarrassing ever again, you know.
Jily：I know.
I nodded with a smile, and he spoke again.
Alyn：I do have one request, though.
Jily：Yes?

You can proceed to the Premium Ending!

Continue your romance with your prince♪

Decision Time>>>

Select the Sweet Ending>>>

Alyn, Chapter 4-Sweet Ending, Part 1/5：

Alyn：I do have one request, though.
Alyn pulled back slightly, looking right down into my eyes.
Jily：A request?
Alyn：Yeah.
Alyn's voice was a soft, sweet murmur.
He tilted his head slightly to the side, leaning slowly towards me.
Jily：Oh—
I smiled up at him, lifting my chin in anticipation of his kiss.
Jily：Alyn—
I breathed his name against his lips, almost touching mine, when—
There was a sudden knock at the door, and Nico poked his head into the study.
Alyn's eyes widened in surprise at the sudden intrusion.
A moment later he pulled back with a start, letting go of me.
Nico：Hey! Alyn, you were about to do something to Jily, weren't you?
Nico looked back and forth between us, giggling softly.
Alyn：Shuddup. If you need something, hurry up and say so.
Nico continued to laugh, but at last he turned his gaze on me.
Nico：Jily, can I borrow you for a moment?
Jily：Okay. I'll see you later, Alyn.
Alyn：Sure.
I sighed and stepped towards Nico, and he led me out of the room.
The door shut with a loud thud.
Alyn frowned as he stared at the closed door, remembering the look on Nico's face.
Alyn：Ahh, this is the last thing I need.
He sighed softly, and then turned and left the room as well.

Alyn, Chapter 4-Sweet Ending, Part 2/5：

We returned to my room, and Nico gave me an apologetic look.
Nico：I know you're just back, and I feel bad about this, but—
I followed his gaze to the pile of documents sitting on my desk.
Nico：These all piled up while you were gone.
I picked up a few of the documents, and realized they were all things that needed my confirmation or my signature.
Nico：Giles and Leo did the best they could while you were away.
Nico：But they're both so busy with their own work, so this all still needs to be dealt with.
Jily：It's okay, Nico, I get it.

（It must've been rough for everyone, having me suddenly gone like that. Yet they all did their best for me.）

I felt a warm glow of happiness inside, knowing that they were always looking out for me.
Jily：Thanks, Nico, for always being there.
Nico：It's nothing, really. Thank you, Jily.
We smiled at each other, and then sat down at the desk to get some work done.

＊＊＊

That evening—
Alyn：Hey.
Nico stepped out of Jily's room, and Alyn hailed him immediately.
Nico's eyes widened in surprise as he stared up at Alyn.
For a moment they just stood there like that, and then Alyn frowned a little.
Alyn：What's with that face?
Nico：Oh, nothing, I was just thinking how unusual it is for you to talk to me.
Nico smiled brightly at Alyn for a moment, and then his expression turned serious.
Nico：So what's the matter?

Alyn, Chapter 4-Sweet Ending, Part 3/5：

Nico：So what's the matter?
Nico's expression fell serious again, his voice curious.
Alyn：I want to talk to her. When's all this work gonna be done?
Alyn's voice was gruff, and he avoided Nico's gaze.
Nico：Hmm. It might be better if you don't go in there right now.
Nico：I don't know when she's going to be finished.
Nico：There's so much there she's probably gonna be at it till the early hours of the morning.
Alyn stared at the worried expression on Nico's face for a moment.
Alyn：So I just gotta make her finish, then.
Nico：What?
Alyn ignored Nico's response and knocked briskly on the door.
I was working through the documents Nico had left for me when Alyn stepped into the room.
Jily：Alyn?
Alyn crossed the room to where I sat and pulled up a chair next to me.
I stared at him in confusion as he sat down.
Alyn：Hey. Stop spacing out and finish up your work.
He poked me gently on the forehead, and then picked up one of the documents.
Jily：You mean you're going to help?
I spoke softly, my voice surprised, and Alyn frowned slightly.
Alyn：We've had nothing but interruptions, and I've had it.
Jily：What do you mean?
I blinked at him in confusion, and he leaned closer.
His eyes were intense, something wavering deep within his gaze.
Alyn：When this is done—
Alyn：Can I tell you what my request is?

Alyn, Chapter 4-Sweet Ending, Part 4/5：

Alyn：When this is done—
Alyn：Can I tell you what my request is?
Alyn's deep red eyes burned intensely, and I nodded hastily, my heart hammering.
Alyn's expression relaxed into a smile, and he turned his attention to the documents.
Alyn：Okay! Let's hurry up and get this done.
I stared at his face in profile for a moment, my thoughts racing.

（What exactly is your request?）

But I couldn't imagine what it was, so I pushed the thoughts away and picked up my quill.

＊＊＊

Jily：That's it!
Alyn's assistance with my work had really sped things up.
It was very late, or perhaps very early, but we were finished much sooner than I'd expected.
Jily：Thanks so much, Alyn.
Alyn：You're welcome.
I let out a long, sighing breath, and Alyn brushed his fingers against my cheek.
Jily：Alyn?
Alyn：You feel a bit hot. Why don't we get some fresh air?
Jily：Okay.
I could feel a flutter of excitement in my tummy just from the brief caress of his fingers on my skin.
He stood up from his chair, and I stood up as well.
We both headed towards the balcony.
As we leaned against the balcony railing, I finally asked what I'd been wanting to ask all along.
Jily：Hey Alyn?
Alyn：Hmm?
Jily：What's your request?
Alyn：You already figured it out when I asked, didn't you?
I remembered then how close he'd been to kissing me as we'd sat in the study.
I turned my gaze away, a small smile on my lips, my cheeks flushing happily.
Jily：If you wanted a kiss, you didn't have to go through all that just to get it.
Alyn sighed softly, and then caught me by the arm, pulling me into his embrace.
Alyn：You don't get it, do you?
Alyn：I know I can kiss you without doing all that.
He moved his face towards me until our lips were practically touching.
He rested his arms on each side of the railing beside me, holding me close.
Jily：Alyn?
His eyes were burning with desire and love for me, and my heart began to race.
Alyn：I want to touch you, to be with you. That's what I wanted to ask.

Alyn, Chapter 4-Sweet Ending, Part 5/5：

Alyn：I want to touch you, to be with you. That's what I wanted to ask.
Jily：Oh—
His gaze seemed to burn into mine, and I couldn't tear my eyes away.

（If you want to touch me—）

Alyn：Then that strange woman got in the way, and then I've barely seen you since we got back.
Alyn：But I've been thinking about you the whole time.

（Then your request is—）

My heart was filled with happiness to know that he wanted to be with me so badly.
A flutter of anticipation pooled in my belly at the thought of the kiss, and what would come after it.
Jily：Thank you, Alyn.
Alyn：Huh?
I smiled up at him, and stood up on tiptoes, catching hold of his arms.
I pressed a soft kiss against his slightly parted lips.
Jily：I wished on the star that I could be the sort of woman you always want to have by your side.
Jily：So you wanting to be with me—and touch me—it makes me really happy.
Alyn：Is that so? In that case—
Alyn paused and looked down at me, a slow smile spreading across his face.
He slid his arms around me, pulling me towards him, and whispered in my ear.
Alyn：You'd better not ever let me go.
Alyn lowered his lips to my neck and began to kiss my skin gently.
I gasped as he nibbled lightly on my bare skin, his lips and tongue suckling my neck.
I reached up again to cling to him, my head falling back to give him better access.
His lips slid along my collarbone even as his fingers slid under my skirts.
Jily：Ohhh—Alyn—
I looked up at the bright stars twinkling in the sky above as Alyn enfolded me in his warmth.

（I wish that Alyn and I will always be together like this.）

The stars about seemed to sparkle and shine as they watched over us in our passion...

fin.

Select the Premium Ending>>>

Alyn, Chapter 4-Premium Ending, Part 1/6：

Alyn：I do have one request, though.
Alyn leaned closer, his face almost touching mine as he spoke.
Jily：What?
Alyn：Will you go into town with me on your next day off?
My eyes widened in surprise at his unexpected words.
A while ago I'd told Alyn that I'd been wanting to go into town again.

（Don't tell me you remembered?
（And your request is really just for me?
（But it was ages ago, really. Surely you've forgotten.）

I sat there, mulling it over in my mind, and the silence dragged out.
Alyn：Well, say something.
Alyn frowned a little as he spoke, his voice impatient.
Jily：Oh, sorry!
Jily：Yes, I'd like to go into town with you.
I snapped out of my daze and smiled brightly up at him.
His frown faded away and he smiled back at me.
Alyn：Good. I'll come get you on the morning of your next day off.

＊＊＊

It was the evening before my next day off, and I stood in front of my closet.

（I wonder what I should wear tomorrow?）

I looked through my clothes, feeling excited and eager about my date with Alyn.
At that moment a sudden knock at the door interrupted my thoughts.
I turned in surprise and heard a familiar voice speak from outside.
???：Sorry for coming by so late.
Jily：Hmm?

Alyn, Chapter 4-Premium Ending, Part 2/6：

???：Sorry for coming by so late.
Jily：Hmm?
I opened the door to find Leo standing there, his expression regretful.
Jily：What's the matter, Leo?
It wasn't usual for Leo to visit so late, and I chewed my lip, feeling suddenly concerned.
Leo：Jily, are you doing anything tomorrow?
Jily：Well—
My words caught in my throat, my worry rising.
I looked down at the dress I was still holding, thinking of Alyn.
Leo didn't seem to notice my reaction as he continued to speak.
Leo：Tomorrow there's a baron coming to the palace who has a lot of political influence.
Leo：I'd like to have you helping me out in case any problems arise.
The concern in Leo's voice made it clear to me that the baron was someone important.

（I promised Alyn we could go out tomorrow.
（But making sure this visit with the baron goes well is important for everyone in the palace.）

I felt bad for Alyn, but I nodded quickly before I could change my mind.

（I'm sure Alyn will understand if I explain things to him.）

Jily：What do you need me to do?
I looked up at Leo, and his expression relaxed with obvious relief.
Leo：Thank you, Jily.
He smiled brightly, reaching out to take my hand.
Leo：Could I ask you not to be the princess, per se?
Leo：Instead, just stick by my side as my assistant.

Alyn, Chapter 4-Premium Ending, Part 3/6：

Leo：Thank you, Jily.
Leo spoke with gratitude and relief and then he stepped out of my room.
My mind was whirling as I got ready for bed and climbed under the covers.
I lay there, trying to calm my thoughts and get to sleep.
But as I closed my eyes, I kept remembering what Leo had told me.
Leo：I've heard it said repeatedly that the baron has a very skilled and capable assistant.
Leo：I need to have a capable assistant as well to avoid losing face.
Leo：And you're so smart, Jily—you're the only one I can rely on.

（An assistant, huh? I wonder what Alyn will say about that.）

I felt anxiety and unease welling up inside me.
I rolled over and stared out the window, trying to will myself to sleep.
But I spent most of the night tossing and turning, unable to relax.

＊＊＊

The next morning—
I dressed carefully and stylishly, and then took a deep breath and stepped out of my room.
Jily：Oh, Leo!
I found Leo waiting for me in the corridor outside, and his expression brightened as he saw me.
Leo：Let's give it all we've got, Jily.
Jily：Yes! But before we start—
I quickly explained to Leo about the date I was supposed to be going on with Alyn.
Jily：Can I just have enough time to go and explain things to him?
I gazed up at Leo hopefully, but right at that moment—
Alyn：Hey.
I turned and saw Alyn standing just a few steps away from us.

Alyn, Chapter 4-Premium Ending, Part 4/6：

Alyn：Hey.
I lifted my head in surprise at the familiar voice.
I turned to find Alyn standing just a few steps away, staring at us in confusion.
Jily：Alyn!
Leo turned to face Alyn as well, and began to speak without hesitation.
Leo：Alyn, listen.
Leo quickly explained the situation and why he needed my help.
After a long pause, Alyn sighed and turned to look at me.
Alyn：Say something.
Jily：I'm so sorry, Alyn. I was just on my way to tell you now, but—
Alyn：Really.
Alyn interrupted me, his voice gruff, and then he turned and walked away before I could say anything more.
Leo：Sorry, I feel like I've done something bad.
Jily：No, it's okay.
I watched worriedly as Alyn walked away, but then I turned back to Leo, determined to do my best at helping him.

＊＊＊

At last my work with Leo was done, and I was free to do what I wanted again.
I shrugged my shawl off my shoulders as I hurried to Alyn's room.
Jily：Alyn?
Alyn answered the door, but he said nothing as he stared at me.

（You're totally mad at me, aren't you?）

I faltered at the look in his eyes, desperately searching for the right words.
Jily：I'm—I'm sorry, Alyn.
The words came out awkwardly, and Alyn turned away from me.
Alyn：Whatever, come in.

（Yep, you're totally mad at me.）

I stepped into his room, but his whole attitude was more brusque than ever.
The awkward atmosphere was almost unbearable, and I spoke in a desperate attempt to break it.
Jily：What can I do to get you to forgive me?
Alyn looked over at me, his expression thoughtful for a moment.
Then he seemed to come up with an idea, and he spoke quietly.
Alyn：How about you become my assistant too?

Alyn, Chapter 4-Premium Ending, Part 5/6：

Alyn：How about you become my assistant too?
Alyn spoke as if the idea had just struck him, and I blinked up at him.
Jily：Your assistant?
Alyn：Yep. You want me to forgive you, right?
Jily：Well, yes, but—

（That seems really weird. What would I even do?）

I lowered my gaze, trying to imagine what he might mean.
Alyn stepped towards me, looking down at me as he spoke.
Alyn：What, you don't like it?
Jily：It's not that—
I hesitated, and this time Alyn broke the silence, his voice more forceful.
Alyn：Okay, so what does an assistant normally do?
I looked up at him, and spoke hesitantly, remembering my day.
Jily：They help out with whatever you ask them to do when you need it.
Alyn：Help out? So with anything at all?
Jily：Well, yes.
At my uncertain response, Alyn caught hold of my wrist.
He pulled me close to him, and murmured softly in my ear, his breath warm on my skin.
Alyn：So that means you'll do whatever I ask of you?
Jily：Alyn—
I looked up in surprise to find him smirking down at me, mischief in his eyes.

Alyn, Chapter 4-Premium Ending, Part 6/6：

Alyn：So that means you'll do whatever I ask of you?
Alyn caught hold of my hand, and lifted it to touch the buttons on his shirt.
Alyn：Undress me.
Jily：What?
I could hear the teasing tone in his voice, and I felt a sudden shiver of excitement run through me.
I hid my smile and slowly worked the buttons of his shirt undone.

（This seems so weird... but I think I like it.）

I could feel myself trembling with anticipation, and I tried to steady my fingers.
At last I stripped off his shirt, baring his chest, and he caught hold of me and pushed me down on the bed.
Jily：Alyn—I thought you were angry.
Alyn：Why would I be angry about work?
Alyn：It was just that you wanted to go into town, so I wanted to take you.
Jily：Really?

（So you did remember? You were doing that for me?）

Happiness bubbled up inside of me, and I smiled brightly up at him.

（Although that means it wasn't that you actually wanted to go into town.）

At last I found myself able to say what I'd really wanted.
Jily：The truth is—I said I wanted to go into town because I wanted to spend time with you.
Jily：So—I'm happy that we can be together, like this.
Alyn listened to my soft words, and then smiled slowly down at me.
Alyn：Then I'm here to grant your wish.
Alyn：I'm not gonna let you go for the rest of today.
Alyn pushed me down against the covers, his hands gentle against my skin.
He leaned closer, his bare skin pressing against me.
Jily：Ohhh—Alyn—
Alyn's mouth captured mine in a kiss, swallowing my gasping breath.
His hand slid around behind my back, fumbling with the catches there.

（Ohhhh—）

My dress loosened, and the cloth covering my breasts slid down.
Alyn sat back a little, sliding his hands across my bared breasts.
His fingers toyed with my nipples, and I gasped, arching my back towards him.
I closed my eyes, gasping helplessly as I gave myself over to him.
His lips soon joined his fingers in caressing and loving every part of my body...

fin.

You've enjoyed a special story with your suitor.
Now enjoy a story where his forbidden wish comes true...
Alyn：Not a chance.
Alyn spoke the words gruffly, at odds with his gentle kisses.
He moved his fingers from Jily's waist down towards her thighs, a slow, sensual movement.
（I'm not gonna let you go for the rest of the day.
（I hope you're ready for that.）
Will you take a peek at this sweet, sexy story, just for you?