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Story Event－Wish Upon a Star（Byron）

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

＞＞＞Choose Byron

Byron, Chapter 1, Part 1/5：

The star was so incredibly old, yet it still shone beautifully in the sky overhead.
I stood next to Byron, gazing up at its sparkling light in quiet wonder.

（I wish I could be with Byron forever.）

I closed my eyes and made a wish, hearing my pulse pounding in my ears.

（And then one day—）

The star glimmered brightly, as if hearing my wish.
Yet there was something mischievous in the way it glimmered.
It was a cool, clear day, and I was on my way to Stein to stay with Byron for a vacation.

（It feels like it's been ages since I saw Byron.）

I watched the scenery out the window dreamily as I imagined how our vacation might go.

（Wait a minute, what's that?）

I was startled out of my reverie as we were approaching a deep forest.
Nico：Huh? There's a little boy just walking along the road.
Nico had noticed the same thing as I had, and he stared out the window in surprise.
Nico：I wonder if he's lost? To be out here like this...
Jily：Please stop the carriage!
The carriage slowly pulled to a stop, and I climbed down and hurried towards the boy.
Jily：What are you doing out here?
I spoke softly, and the boy stopped walking and turned towards me.
He didn't look more than three years old, and I could see dried tear tracks on his cheeks.
Nico：I looked around the area, but I can't see anyone else around here.

（What should we do? We can't just leave him alone out here like this.）

Jily：Why don't you come with us? We can help you look for your mom and dad.
The boy hadn't spoken a word yet, but when I offered him my hand, he reached up to grab my fingers.
His hand was warm and sure, and I smiled down at him as I led him back to the carriage.

Byron, Chapter 1, Part 2/5：

The boy still wouldn't talk, but at last we'd managed to get him to smile.
It was about the same time that we finally arrived in Stein.
I said farewell to Nico and hurried inside to where Byron was waiting for me.
Byron：It's been a while, Jily.
When I opened the door I found Byron waiting for me, a smile on his face.

（Ahh, I've been waiting so long to see you.）

I smiled brightly up at him as I stepped forward, and then I felt a gentle tugging on the back of my skirt.
Byron：Is that a child?
Byron looked around at the young boy who was clinging to my skirts.
Jily：Well—
I explained to Byron what had happened during our trip, and Byron looked down at the boy.
Byron：What's your name?
The boy slowly peeked his head out from behind me, looking up at Byron.
Boy：...Erik.
He hadn't answered us even once in the carriage, and his voice when he spoke was soft and hoarse.
Byron：Erik. I see.
Byron nodded, and then called for servants to attend him.
In a quiet voice he gave them orders to search for Erik's parents.
The servants listened to his orders, and then took Erik away with them to be bathed and dressed in clean clothes.
At last Byron and I were alone in the room, and I turned towards him again.
Byron：It seems as if I may have a hard time getting close to you in the coming days.
Jily：What?
Byron smiled suddenly, and I realized he was looking at the creases in my skirt where Erik had been clinging to them.
Byron：I've been looking forward to your visit.
Byron wrapped his arms around me, and my heart filled with warmth to be near to him after so long.

Byron, Chapter 1, Part 3/5：

That evening—
Erik had been fretful unless I was with him, but at last I got him to sleep and visited Byron's room.
Byron smiled faintly as he ushered me into the room.
Byron：You're a mess.
He reached out and stroked my neck, his long fingers warm against my skin.
Jily：Oh—
I followed his gaze and realized that the ribbon laces on the front of my nightgown were almost completely undone.
I remembered then how agitated Erik had been, pulling at them as I'd tried to get him to sleep, and I blushed.
Byron：Never mind.
Byron set aside the book he'd been reading, and began to retie the laces.
Jily：It's okay, you don't need to—
Byron：I'm doing it because I want to, so you don't need to fuss.
Byron：That said—
Byron：It doesn't seem as if Erik has any intention of leaving your side anytime soon.
Jily：I'm sorry, maybe I shouldn't have brought him here.

（I know it's a bother, but I just couldn't leave him alone.）

I chewed my lip, wondering if there'd been a better option, but Byron leaned closer, catching my gaze.
Byron：That's not what I meant.
Byron：I've just never had a child like me like that.
Byron sighed softly, reaching out to tuck my hair behind my ear.
Byron：I suppose we could think of it as practice for the future.

（Wait, what?）

Byron's voice was soft and sweet, but his words set my heart racing.
I had no idea how to react, and I blinked up at him with wide eyes.

（Practice for the future—）

I suddenly remembered the wish I'd made on the star only a few days earlier.

（It's true that I wished that one day we could. But—）

Byron：Why are you making that face?
Jily：Oh, um, I—
Byron：Do you disapprove?
My heart was pounding even louder now, and I quickly shook my head.
Byron's expression relaxed at that, a soft smile gracing his lips.
Jily：Um—
Before I could say anything, Byron reached out, his hand sliding behind my neck.
I closed my eyes as our lips came together in a sweet kiss.

Byron, Chapter 1, Part 4/5：

The next morning—
I opened my eyes slowly, turning to look for Byron, but he was no longer in bed with me.
The sun shone in through a gap in the curtains, making the white bed sheets seem to glow golden.
Maid：Good morning, Princess.
Maid：Apparently he was waiting outside the room for you.
The maid smiled as she carried in a tray with tea set out on it.
Behind her was Erik, creeping nervously into the room.
Jily：Oh!
He hurried over and threw his arms around my middle, and I smiled down at him.
Jily：Good morning, Erik.
Erik：Morning...
I got out of bed and began to get dressed and ready, and Erik followed my every move.
But before long he ended up lying on the sofa, sleeping soundly.

（I guess he couldn't sleep last night after all.）

His tiny body seemed so relaxed in sleep, and I sat down next to him, gently stroking his hair.
A moment later Byron opened the door and stepped into the room.
Byron：I thought we could have breakfast together.
He paused at the sight of Erik sleeping, and then closed the door as quietly as possible.
Byron：Wouldn't it be better to put him in bed?
He gently picked up Erik from the sofa, and carried him quietly across to the bed.
Jily：Byron, I'm sorry for all this.
I spoke softly as I followed him, but he only smiled as he glanced back at me.
Byron：Are all children so warm when they're asleep?
Jily：Yes, even in winter.
Byron：You're quite warm yourself at times.
There was a knowing look in Byron's eyes, and I blushed a little.
Byron's movements were awkward and unfamiliar as he laid Erik down on the bed and tucked him in.
But the sight of him doing so sent a flood of warmth and happiness through me.

Byron, Chapter 1, Part 5/5：

The sun was high in the sky when I next went to check on Erik.
The maids had moved him to a different room, and I sat down next to him.
I gently patted the blankets covering him, gazing down at his sleeping face.

（I guess you've got a lot of sleep to catch up on!）

I touched his hand, and my heart felt warm and content as his tiny fingers curled around mine.
I smiled down at him, and then I heard the door opening, and turned to see Byron approaching me.
Byron：Is he still asleep?
Jily：Yes. I guess he didn't sleep at all last night.
Byron：You checked on him so many times during the night.
Byron：Be careful not to overdo it. If you were to get sick—
Byron paused, and then stroked my hair, his fingers slipping around behind my head.
I lifted my head towards him for a kiss, when—
Erik：Jily?
Erik opened his eyes and blinked sleepily up at us.
Jily：Oh! Good morning, Erik.
I hurriedly pulled away from Byron, smiling down at Erik and trying to ignore my racing heart.
Jily：Did you sleep well?
Jily：You must be hungry. It's almost lunchtime.
Erik reached out and grabbed hold of my skirt again, looking up at me with wide, serious eyes.
Byron laughed gently as he watched us, and stepped back from the bed.
Byron：You two should go ahead and have lunch. Take your time.
Byron kissed me gently on the cheek, and turned away to leave.

（Byron—）

I felt oddly lonely, watching him walk away from us like that.
I sighed and started to turn back towards Erik, when I saw Byron stop and glance back.
Byron：I'm taking the whole day off tomorrow.
Byron：Why don't you think about what you want to do?
Byron gave me a tender smile before stepping out of the room.

Byron, Chapter 2, Part 1/5：

The next morning—
Byron took the day off, just as he'd promised.
He took Erik and I down into the town, and we began to wander around.
Jily：What would you like to do?
Erik was silent as he clung tightly to my hand.
But there was something happy and eager about the way he tugged me forwards.
He stopped suddenly, and I followed his gaze to where a crowd had gathered ahead of us, and lively music was playing.
Albert：It looks as if some clowns are performing.
Albert had come with us as our guard, and Erik's expression lit up at his words.
Erik hurried forwards, but the crowd was thick, and he began to jump up and down behind them, trying to see.

（Erik, you're way too short for that!）

I reached out towards him, but Byron gently caught my hands, stopping me.
He picked up Erik himself and gently lifted him into the air, settling him on his shoulders.
Erik：Oh!
Byron：How's that? Can you see?
Byron's question was soft, and Erik's cheeks flushed happily.
Erik：Yes!
Byron：That's good.

（One day—）

I felt an odd fluttering sensation in my tummy as I looked up at Byron.

（When you become a father—）

Byron seemed to notice my gaze, and he turned to smile down at me.

（Would it feel like this?）

My heart seemed full of warmth and pleasure as I watched how gently he handled Erik.

Byron, Chapter 2, Part 2/5：

Sometime after lunch—
Since being let down from Byron's shoulders, Erik hadn't let go of Byron's hand even once.

（Erik, you're adorable.）

Erik's eyes were bright as he followed after Byron, watching the scenery around us.

（But—
（I guess I can't help but feel a little sad that Byron and I aren't getting much time alone together.）

I suddenly remember again the wish I'd made on that star.

（What was it? The star will grant your wish, but it'll play a small prank on you?
（Maybe this is the prank?）

I sighed softly to myself as I looked up at Byron again.

（I can't help it—I want you to myself.）

As I was thinking that, Albert coughed discreetly from behind us.
Albert：I've just remembered that there's a large toy store over that way.
Albert：Come with me.
Albert took Erik by the hand and led him away down one of the side streets.
Jily：Oh!
I watched in surprise as they walked away, and then Byron smiled at me.
Byron：At last we're alone.

（Byron—
（Were you thinking the same thing I was?）

I looked up into his gentle eyes, my cheeks flushing with happiness.
Jily：I was thinking the same thing.
I spoke the words softly, and Byron reached out and took my hand, squeezing my fingers gently.
Byron：It seems I've made you feel lonely unintentionally.
Byron lifted my hand slowly, his eyes still holding mine.

Byron, Chapter 2, Part 3/5：

Byron：It seems I've made you feel lonely unintentionally.
Byron lifted my hand slowly, his eyes still holding mine.
He smiled at me, and placed a soft kiss against the back of my hand.
Jily：Byron—
His lips were warm against my skin, and they sent a thrill of happiness through me.
Byron：Does that help at least a little?
I smiled up at him, nodding as I squeezed his hand gently.
Byron：That's good.
Byron twined his fingers with mine, pulling me towards him.
Albert：Your Majesty.
Albert's voice seemed to come out of nowhere, and I jumped with a start, pulling away.
I turned to find Albert standing there with Erik sitting on his shoulder, kicking his feet and looking disgruntled.
Albert：There was a small fencing show going on over there.
Albert：Erik saw that and wanted one of the swords. It was quite troublesome.
Erik's feet had kicked Albert's glasses askew, but he was too busy holding Erik to fix them.
His face was creased in a deep frown as he stared at us both.
Albert：I'm not good with children.

（You say that, but—）

Albert set Erik down on the ground, and fussed over him, fixing his disarrayed clothes.

（You're doing better than you think.）

I giggled softly, and at the same time Byron began to laugh.
We looked at each other, and as our eyes met we began to laugh again.
Byron：A sword, hmm?
We were on our way back to the palace when I heard Byron murmur, putting a hand to his chin thoughtfully.
There was something joyful in his expression when I looked up at him.

Byron, Chapter 2, Part 4/5：

That evening—
Even after we'd returned to the palace, Erik had no intention of leaving Byron's side, even for a moment.
Jily：Erik, Byron has work he needs to get done.
No matter what I said, Erik continued to follow after Byron.
Byron said nothing as he walked down the corridor towards his office.
He didn't chase Erik away, but he didn't pay him any special attention either.
Jily：Um—
I didn't know what to do as I followed Erik, but Byron turned back and gave me a sweet smile.
Then he stepped into his study, Erik still following after, and the door closed behind them.
Albert：Really.
Albert muttered under his breath, and then disappeared somewhere as well.

（I feel like I should do something, but...）

＊＊＊

It was growing late by the time I got Erik to go to sleep.
It was even later still by the time Byron returned to his room, and I prepared tea for him.
Jily：Byron, I'm sorry about Erik. He didn't interrupt your work, did he?
I passed him the cup of tea, and he sighed softly as he took it.
Byron：He's a very clever boy.
Jily：What?
Byron：I gave him a quill and some parchment, and he sat there imitating me, scribbling something enthusiastically.
Byron smiled at the recollection, and I found myself smiling as well.
Byron：Still.
Byron：To be shown such honest affection like that—
Jily：What?
I turned towards Byron in surprise and saw him frowning, his expression troubled.

（Wait a minute—
（Are you blushing?）

I couldn't stop the giggle that burst out of me, and Byron reached out and ruffled my hair.
Byron：Don't laugh.
I could hear the embarrassment in his voice, but before I could say anything, he leaned over and kissed me.
I closed my eyes and gave myself over to the sweet taste of his lips.

Byron, Chapter 2, Part 5/5：

Several days later—
It was a cloudy morning, and I'd dressed up a little more than usual, pinning a rose corsage to the front of my dress.

（I can't wait to visit the villa Byron lived in as a child. I wonder what it's like!）

I was thinking about our outing as I finished up my breakfast.
At that moment Albert entered the dining hall carrying a large package.
Byron：Thanks, Al.
Byron accepted the package from Albert, a fond, wistful smile on his face.
Jily：What is it?
I asked without thinking, and Byron handed the package across the table to me.
Byron：Open it and take a look.
I carefully opened the package and inside I found a beautiful, child-sized sword.
Jily：Oh wow!
I caught my breath at the beautiful workmanship of the sword, and Byron picked it up slowly.
Byron：This is the sword I used when I was a child.

（Is this because Erik said that he wanted a sword?）

The thought made me smile brightly at Byron, and he reached out to touch my cheek.
Byron：That's good.
Jily：What is?
I blinked at him in confusion, and he grinned.
Byron：I was just a bit worried.
Byron：I thought you might complain that there was nothing in there for you.
Jily：Ahh, you're awful!
His eyes were sparkling with amusement, and I smiled again as I placed my hand over his on my cheek.

（All I need is to be able to be with you.）

I twined my fingers with his, feeling contentment welling up inside.

Byron, Chapter 3, Part 1/5：

That evening—
We'd spent the day at the villa, and then we put Erik to bed in his room.
Byron：It seems like he still prefers you at bedtime.
Erik was sleeping soundly, his fingers clenched in the hem of my nightgown.
Byron smiled down at him, gently stroking his hair.

（You look so kind and sweet right now, Byron.）

I wasn't used to seeing him so gentle, and I smiled up at him.
Byron：We should get to bed too.
Jily：Yes.
I gently loosened Erik's grip on my nightgown, and as I did I noticed there was a blister on his hand.
Jily：Gosh, he was trying so hard.
Byron reached down to touch Erik's hand, a frown forming.
Byron：He said he wanted to protect his mother. In his father's place.

（Erik—is that why you wanted a sword?）

My heart ached as I remembered the sight of Erik studiously learning to use the sword, in spite of how small he was.
Byron：We received a report today of a woman in a small village near the border who is looking for her son.
Jily：Really?
Byron：Apparently they were set upon by bandits, and she was injured.
Byron：We don't yet know if it's Erik's mother, but—
Byron slid an arm around my shoulder, and we turned to walk out of the room.
We didn't even notice Erik squirming in the bed behind us.
The next morning—
I woke up to the sound of a maid's voice, and realized that the maid herself, usually so cheerful, was white as a sheet.
Byron：What's the matter?
Maid：Erik has gone missing!
Her panicked voice seemed to echo in the quiet room.

Byron, Chapter 3, Part 2/5：

It had been raining steadily since the night before, but it was getting heavier, and the wind seemed to howl at the windows.
Inside the villa, the echo of footsteps filled the rooms as people searched for Erik.

（Where could he have gone?）

In spite of the storm, Albert and his knights were outside searching for Erik as well.
I couldn't sit still, so I was helping search the villa, and when I visited his room again I realized his sword was gone.
Byron：He said he wanted to protect his mother. In his father's place.
Jily：Oh no! Don't tell me—
I couldn't stand the thought of what might have happened, and I dashed out into the storm.

（Oh no!）

The wind and the rain were vicious, beating at me, and within moments I lost my balance.

（Ahh, I'm falling!）

I squeezed my eyes tightly shut, but a moment later I felt strong arms around me.
Byron：What are you doing?
Jily：Byron!
Jily：Erik's sword has gone. What if—
A strong gust of wind stole the words from my mouth.
Byron pulled me closer as if protecting me from the storm, and spoke in my ear.
Byron：Wait inside the villa.
Byron：I can't let you go out in weather like this.
Albert came rushing towards us, leading his horse, and Byron handed me to him.
Then he vaulted up onto Albert's horse.
Byron：Take care of Jily.
Byron commanded, and then he turned the horse and dashed off through the storm.
Jily：Oh, Byron—Erik—
Albert had to drag me back inside the villa, but I couldn't escape the echoing howl of the wind inside my head.

Byron, Chapter 3, Part 3/5：

The sun had set, and the chilling rain continued to pelt down outside.
Byron and Erik still hadn't returned, and I felt almost as if I were going stir crazy from waiting.

（Why can't I go and search too?）

I couldn't stand waiting any longer, so I snuck out of my room.

＊＊＊

I crept down to the front hall and opened the door, and the wind slammed into me.
I caught my breath, struggling to stop the door from slamming wide open.
All I could hear was the howling wind and the hammering rain, and then in the midst of it I heard a horse neigh.
Byron：What are you doing?
I looked up in shock at the familiar voice to see Byron dismounting from his horse.
He was holding Erik in his arms, the boy shivering and drenched in rain.
Jily：Erik!
I started to rush forwards, but before I could I found myself in Byron's arms.

＊＊＊

He urged me back into the villa, and we hurried back to Erik's room.
Jily：Erik, where on earth were you?!
My voice sounded shrill as I cupped Erik's cheeks between my hands.
Byron：Apparently he left last night while it was still clear out.
Byron placed a reassuring arm around my shoulders, his voice gentle.
Erik：I wanted to see my mommy.
I realized then that he was still gripping the small sword tightly in his hands.

（Oh, Erik—）

I couldn't think of a single thing to say, but Byron reached out and patted Erik on the head.
Byron：Is that why? You certainly are brave.
At Byron's soft words Erik began to cry in earnest, tears streaming down his cheeks.
I felt suddenly overwhelmed with the relief that was flooding through me.

（I'm so glad you're both okay!）

I reached out and hugged them both at the same time, and Erik caught hold of my skirt, just as he always did.
Byron：My clothes are wet—
Byron started to speak, but then he seemed to realize I was trembling, and he reached up and gently stroked my back.
The storm outside continued to rage, but the sound didn't seem to matter anymore.

Byron, Chapter 3, Part 4/5：

The next morning dawned bright and clear again.
I'd been so exhausted by the events of the day before that it was later than usual when I finally woke up.

（What a beautiful morning!）

The storm seemed to have washed the sky clean, and it seemed to stretch on forever into the distance.

（I wonder where Byron is?）

I climbed out of the bed and opened the terrace doors, where I saw Byron in the garden teaching Erik how to use his sword.
Byron：Well done.
Erik finished a practice swing, and Byron reached out to ruffle his hair.
Erik laughed loudly, his face bright with happiness.
Erik：Jily!
Erik noticed me watching and came running towards me.
Byron turned and smiled at me, waving from where he stood.

（Oh gosh, I'm so happy right now.）

Byron was lit by the morning sunlight, and his presence seemed to light up everything around him.
I felt Erik's tiny arms wrap around my legs, and I smiled down at him.
Erik：Jily, come watch me too!
Erik caught hold of my hand, and I wrapped a shawl around me as I followed him out into the garden.
Erik began to do his practice swings again, entirely focused on showing off how much he'd improved.
Byron：He woke me early this morning.
Byron spoke softly as we stood together watching him.
Jily：You should've woken me—
Byron's sweet smile cut me off.
Byron：You looked so lovely, lying there sound asleep.
He reached out and tucked my hair behind my ear, and I blushed happily at him.
Only a moment later a maid came rushing out from inside the villa.
Maid：Your Majesty! Erik's mother—at the castle—
Byron and I turned to stare at each other, our eyes wide.
At the same time I heard the sound of Erik's sword clattering as it hit the ground.

Byron, Chapter 3, Part 5/5：

That evening—
We hurried back to the castle, where Erik was reunited with his mother.
We had dinner with them both, but soon it was time to say farewell.
Byron：Erik.
The silence in the great hall seemed overwhelming, and I was glad when Byron finally broke it.
His voice was deep and gentle, and Erik lifted his head to look up at him.
Byron：I want to give you this.
Byron unstrapped the sword that he wore around his waist and gave it to Erik.
Byron：You'll be able to use it when you grow up.
Erik Erik stared up at Byron's gentle smile, his eyes wide.
Byron：I'm sure it will protect you, and those around you.
Erik slowly took the sword from Byron, and then turned to hug me, his arms warm around my legs.
Jily：Erik, you take care of yourself, okay?
I crouched down and hugged Erik tightly, trying to hold back my tears.
Erik hugged me back, and then he and his mother left to return to their home.
Byron：I think I just got lonely.
The room seemed emptier without the two of them, and Byron's voice seemed to echo even louder.
Jily：Me too.
My voice was tight with tears, and Byron wrapped his arms around me from behind.
Byron：Don't get too upset. We'll see him again.
Byron's voice was soft in my ear, and I gave a long sigh, feeling the tension easing out of me.
Jily：I kind of feel like I want to see the children in Wysteria again.
I placed my hands over Byron's where they rested around my waist, and he tightened his grip on me.
Byron：I just had a thought as well.
I turned to look up at him, wondering what it was.

You can proceed to the Premium Ending!

Continue your romance with your prince♪

Decision Time>>>

Select the Sweet Ending>>>

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

Byron：I just had a thought as well.
And without explaining further, Byron took me out for a walk in the garden.

（Ahh, it's so nice to just wander the gardens like this with you.
（It feels like it's been forever.）

I looked down at the flowerbeds we were walking past, until at last Byron spoke.
Byron：I've always done my best to understand you, but...
I looked up at the sound of his voice to find him gazing down at me, his expression worried.
Byron：But when Erik was with us, I saw expressions on your face that I'd never seen before.

（What does that mean?）

Byron：I don't know how to describe it, but it was like you were more firm and in control than you are when you're with me.
Jily：Really?
Byron：I want to get to know you better, even more than I already do.
Byron leaned closer and pressed a soft, feather-light kiss against my lips.
My heart skipped a beat at the sudden sweetness, and he smiled down at me.
Byron：I'm sure you're hiding other surprises from me too.
Jily：I'm not hiding them on purpose.
Jily：Although—

（I don't know if you would really be interested in hearing this, but—）

I took a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart, and then looked up at him again.
Jily：I don't think I've told you much about my life when I lived down in the town, before I was a princess.
Byron：I'd like to hear about it.
Byron's smile was full of joy, and he led me over to sit with him on a nearby bench.
The sky was painted golden colors from the setting sun, but it soon faded into deep, inky blues as we spoke.

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

Byron listened with a smile on his face as I told him about my life as a governess in the town.
The memories seemed as bright as if they'd happened yesterday, and I smiled wistfully as I spoke.
Jily：Sometimes we'd sing songs in the afternoons.
Jily：Or we'd go for walks around town...
My voice trailed off as I got lost in my memories, and then Byron spoke softly.
Byron：It sounds quite different from the tutors in the castle.
I looked up to find him watching me with a gentle gaze.
Jily：What did the castle tutors teach you?
Byron's smile deepened at my words.
Byron：Do you want to know?
I nodded slowly, and Byron sat in thought for a moment, his gaze distant.
Byron：Let's see...
He leaned towards me, his mouth moving towards mine.

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

The sun was setting in the sky overhead, and the inky darkness of night was approaching.
Byron：Let's see...
Byron murmured softly, his lips moving towards mine.
I caught my breath, captivated by the look in his eye.
He was almost close enough to touch, and I closed my eyes, anticipating his kiss.
But the moment of anticipation seemed to drag out for far too long.

（Wait, what?）

I waited longer, but he still didn't kiss me.
At last I opened my eyes in confusion, blinking slowly.
Byron was leaning back a little, watching me with his usual calm expression.
Byron：What's the matter?
I blushed a little, feeling silly, and dropped my gaze away.
I felt his fingers twining in my hair, and I looked up as he laughed gently.
Byron：Things like this.
Jily：What?
Byron：This is what the castle tutors taught me.
I frowned in confusion, not sure what he was trying to say.
Byron：They taught me how to control other people's actions.
Jily：Oh!

（That's what that was all about?）

I blushed even deeper, feeling silly for falling for it so easily.
Byron smiled gently, lifting my chin towards him with his long fingers.
Byron：Maybe it's because that's the only sort of thing I learned from the castle tutors, but—
Byron：I much prefer your honesty and openness.
His eyes were full of affection, and he leaned close and kissed me properly this time.
Byron：Let's go. This is the last day of your vacation, after all.
Byron stood up and offered me his hand, and I gazed up at him.
The last rays of the setting sun seemed to make him glow.
I felt a flutter of excitement in my tummy as I placed my hand in his.

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

That evening—
Byron and I spent a relaxing evening together, and returned to his room as it grew late.

（I have to go home to Wysteria tomorrow.
（Ahh, I'm feeling lonely already.）

I glanced at Byron, who was sitting next to me reading, and he raised his head from his book.
Byron：What is it?
Jily：It's nothing.
The longer I stared into his eyes, the stronger my feeling of loneliness became, so I turned to look out the window.
I gazed at the moon riding high in the sky as I thought about the days we'd spent together.

（A lot happened while I was here.
（But I really had a lot of fun.）

I closed my eyes for a moment, smiling and thinking back.
Byron slid his arm around my shoulder, pulling me closer.
Byron：The moon is lovely tonight.
His soft voice seemed to fill me with warmth.
Byron：What are you thinking about?
Jily：I was just thinking how nice it would be if tomorrow never came.
Byron leaned towards me and pressed a soft kiss against first one eyelid and then the other.
The gentle moonlight seemed to enfold us as I lifted my head to meet his lips in a kiss.

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

The moonlight shone in through the window, lighting up the room.
I sat wrapped in Byron's warm embrace for a long time.
Slowly the feeling of loneliness that had gripped me seemed to ease.

（Ahh, I didn't mean to worry you again.）

I took a deep breath and let it out again as I looked up at Byron.
I realized that he was watching me, his gaze every bit as lonely as I'd been feeling.

（Oh, Byron—）

Byron reached out and touched my cheek, his fingers lightly caressing my skin.
Byron：One day—
Byron paused and then pressed his lips together. He closed his eye for a moment, as if thinking.
I watched him curiously, and suddenly he smiled, opening his eye again.
Byron：No, in the near future—
Byron：I want to start every one of my busy days by holding you in my arms.

（Wait a minute—）

My heart was suddenly racing, but Byron didn't seem to notice, his expression still distantly thoughtful.

（Does that mean—）

My cheeks flushed as I realized the full implications of what his words meant.
Byron：Until then, I want to enjoy the times we have alone together as much as possible.
Byron smiled again, turning his gaze on me at last.
Jily：I'd like that too.
I smiled brightly up at him as I spoke.
Byron's hand slid around behind my head, pulling me towards him as his lips captured mine.

（I hope that day comes soon.）

My heart was filled with hope for the future.
But as Byron's tongue slid between my lips, seeking mine, I gave myself over to the present.
Behind him, the moonlight shone down on us, melting away our loneliness...

fin.

Select the Premium Ending>>>

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

It was late afternoon.
The sun shone in through the hall window, creating long shadows behind Byron and I.
Jily：I kind of feel like I want to see the children in Wysteria again.
Byron's arms were wrapped around me from behind, and they tightened a little at my words.
Byron：I just had a thought as well.
Byron：You really do like children, don't you?
I turned my head towards him at the question.
He was smiling at me, his expression gentle.
Byron：I was watching you while you were with Erik. Some of your expressions were so lovely and happy.
Jily：Thank you.
I leaned back against him, feeling reassured by his warmth.
I thought back to the time I'd spent with Erik, and my days with the children in town.
Jily：I always feel happy when I'm spending time with children.
I closed my eyes as I spoke, and I felt Byron's hands gently stroking my hair.
Byron：I'd like to spend the rest of our vacation seeing you look that happy.
Jily：What do you mean?
I looked up at Byron again, startled by his words, and his lips captured mine in a gentle kiss.
Then he smiled at me, his voice lighthearted as he said,
Byron：I'd like to meet those children in Wysteria that you always talk about.
Byron's voice seemed loud in the stillness of the room.
His words filled me sudden hopeful joy, and I smiled brightly up at him.

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

The next morning—
Byron and I sat in a carriage as it made its way through the forest towards Wysteria.

（It's been so long since I saw the children.）

I gazed out the window at the scenery, and then I realized that we were approaching the place where we'd found Erik.

（That's it right there, isn't it?）

I stared out the window, remembering how tiny and forlorn he'd looked.
Byron glanced up from the documents he was reading, and gazed at me for a moment.
Jily：Oh!
Without warning I found myself wrapped in Byron's warm embrace.
Jily：Byron?
I looked up at him, and he spoke as our eyes met.
Byron：Were you thinking about Erik?

（How on earth did you know?）

I nodded slightly, and he hugged me even tighter.
He caught my lips in a sudden, fervent kiss, and I gasped softly as our lips parted again.
Jily：Byron—
I licked my lips slowly, staring up at him, and he met my gaze steadily.
Byron：Nothing suits you better than your sweet smile.
Byron：I'm not saying you always need to smile, but—
Byron：You don't need to cling to your sadness all alone.
He kissed me again, his lips strong and passionate against mine.

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

The carriage pulled to a stop with a clattering of wheels.
Our lips came apart at the same time, and Byron smiled at me.
Byron：We'll finish that later.
His smile was conspiratorial, but before I could say anything he stepped down from the carriage.
My heart was beating fast, and for a moment I just sat there, staring at the open carriage door.

（Ahh, I must be blushing bright red, too.）

I smiled to myself, and then I saw the children peering into the carriage.
Boy 1：Teacher! Long time no see!
Girl 1：Who is the man who just got out?
Boy 2：Wait a minute! I bet I know!
Girl 2：Me too! He's your boyfriend, right!
The children all chattered cheerfully as they stared in at me, and I laughed as my heart finally slowed to a normal pace.
Jily：You should know better than to tease your elders!
A moment later I heard Byron laughing from outside the carriage.
The children turned to look at him, and he stepped forward, smiling at me again.
Byron：She's right, you know.
They stared up at him with wide eyes as he reached out and took hold of my hands.
Byron pulled me into his arms and lifted me from the carriage before setting me down outside.
Byron：It's nice to meet you all.
The warmth of his arms as he carried me down sent a thrill of excitement through me.
I looked down at the children, and saw something close to adoration in their eyes as they stared at him.

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

The next day—
The weather was fine and clear, and Byron and I decided to go on a picnic.
Byron：So what does one do on a picnic?
I was spreading the picnic blanket out on the ground when Byron spoke.
Jily：Don't be silly—wait—
I looked up at him in surprise and saw that he was peering into the picnic basket with great interest.

（Of course—Byron's spent most of his life locked up in the castle.）

I felt suddenly glad that I could show him this new experience, and I reached up to take his hand.
Jily：First you should sit down on the blanket.
Jily：Then, you should look up at the beautiful sky while you enjoy eating a delicious lunch with me.
I smiled brightly up at him, and he nodded in understanding.
Byron：I see.
He slowly sat down on the blanket, crossing his long legs under him.
He sat there in silence, gazing around him as I unpacked the food and laid it out next to us.
I finished up and put the picnic basket out of the way, and he turned back to face me.
Then he shifted around and laid down with his head in my lap.
Jily：Byron?
Byron：You did tell me to look up at the sky.
He grinned up at me from where he lay, his expression amused.
Jily：Well—yes, I did.
His weight was warm and reassuring in my lap, yet it set my heart racing.
Byron：When you lived in the town,
Byron：did you take the children out for picnics like this?
His words were soft as he looked up at me.
I thought back to the lovely time we'd spent with the children the day before, and then to other, older memories.
Jily：Yes, sometimes we did.
Byron：I see.
Byron：You sound like you were a wonderful teacher.
Byron sat up again and turned towards me, his hand coming up to cup my cheek.
Jily：Thank you for thinking so.
I blushed happily at his sweet words, and he lifted my face towards him, kissing me gently.
A soft breeze whispered past us, but it did nothing to cool my hot cheeks.

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

That evening—
Byron and I returned to Wysteria Palace, and spent the last evening of our vacation relaxing quietly.

（That reminds me—）

Byron：I've just never had a child like me like that.

（I know that's what you said, but—）

I thought back to how Erik had followed him everywhere, and how much the children in town had adored him.
I found myself smiling at my memories.
Byron：What is it?
Jily：Oh, nothing. I was just thinking how popular you are with children.
I was still smiling as I remembered him with the children, but then he spoke suddenly.
Byron：What about you?
Jily：What?
Byron：Am I not popular with you as well?
Byron's gaze was directly focused on me, and I blinked slowly.
Jily：Oh! Um, I—
Byron：Yes?
Byron tilted his head towards me, as if he couldn't hear me clearly.
I blushed in response, pouting slightly, and he laughed softly.
Byron：You looked so lonely, so I wanted to grant your wish, but—
Jily：What?
Byron：I did promise you earlier, in the carriage, didn't I?

（Oh!）

〝We'll finish that later.〞

Byron：Do you remember?
Byron：What do you want?
Byron：I want to fulfill your every wish.
Byron moved closer to me as he whispered, until his lips were almost touching mine.

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

Byron：What do you want?
Byron's voice was husky, his face lit up by the moonlight from the window, and the sight of him captivated me.
I couldn't think of a thing to say, and I watched as he lowered his lips to the bare skin just above my breasts.
Jily：Byron—
I whispered his name as he kissed my skin, and he smiled up at me.
I was lost for words, and I closed my eyes as he kissed me again.

（What do I want?）

The memories of the days we'd spent with Erik and the children kept going round and round in my mind.

（I was so happy these last few days.）

I opened my eyes again and found Byron watching me with a gentle gaze.
I felt so overwhelmed by happiness that I was almost dizzy.

（But right now—）

Jily：I want you to focus on me, and only me.
My words were a faint whisper, barely audible, but Byron smiled slowly.
Byron：As you wish.
His smile was full of promise as he slowly undid the ties on my nightgown.
He slid the fabric down my body, baring my breasts, his fingers caressing my skin.
He lowered his head and began to kiss and suckle my breasts, and I gave a low moan.
He lifted his head and kissed me, his tongue slipping between my parted lips.
Jily：Byron—
I whimpered his name with longing, the sound seeming to melt away in the darkness of the corners of the room.
Byron leaned over to kiss my bare skin, and I gazed up at him, beautiful in the soft glow of the moonlight...

fin.

You've enjoyed a special story with your suitor.
Now enjoy a story where his forbidden wish comes true...
Byron：The day will come when you and I and our child will all enjoy our lives together.
（One day we'll be able to live together, every single day.）
Byron parted the fabric of Jily's dress, suckling on her soft skin, and she sighed softly.
Will you take a peek at this sweet, sexy story, just for you?