♔亞緣腐宅窩♔

Who will be your first love?
Meet your schoolboy crush in the School Days Event happening now!

School Days（Byron）

You met him in the halls at school...
You've just enrolled at the prestigious Royal Wysterian Academy,
but love is the only thing on anyone's mind!
......
Your first love is a brush with destiny with Byron Wagner, the student body president of your sister school...
Byron：I wanted to see this with you.
Byron：Jily, I'd like you to stay by my side.
......
Heartrending confessions, anguishing crushes...
Fall in love with your schoolboy suitor!

Prologue：

This is an unforgettable story of first love.
A story of your first meeting with him at the Royal Wysterian Academy...
I walked slowly down the spacious corridor.
Mr. Branche, one of the teachers, was showing me around the academy.

（I never knew how big the academy was until I saw it like this from inside.）
（If I don't want to get lost in here, I'm going to have to do my best, starting tomorrow!）

I sighed softly to myself, and Mr. Branche glanced back at me with a smile.
Mr. Branche：Are you feeling tired? I did go and introduce you to everyone all at once.
Jily：No, it's not that.
Jily：I was just feeling a little nervous, and wondering how often I'm going to get lost.
It was my dream to be a teacher, so I'd studied constantly, and finally my hard work was paying off.
The following day I would start attending Royal Wysterian Academy as a scholarship student.
Mr. Branche：Well, you're right—the school is huge, I imagine it's overwhelming at first.
Mr. Branche：But you'll be fine. You'll get used to it in no time.
Mr. Branche's voice was kind and reassuring, and it eased my nervousness.
Jily：I guess you're right.
I turned to glance out at the schoolyard, visible from the nearby windows.
Mr. Branche went on, his tone still gentle.
Mr. Branche：I know there's lots of things you won't be used to at first.
Mr. Branche：But you only get to enjoy your time as a student once. I hope each day will be memorable for you.

（I only get to enjoy it once, huh? Well, that's true enough.）
（I want to learn everything I can here at Royal Wysterian Academy, and create lots of wonderful memories!）

My heart fluttered with excitement as I imagine how my life at the school was going to go.
Suddenly Mr. Branche looked away, his gaze moving to someone behind me.
Mr. Branche：Goodness, are you still here?
Curious, I turned to see who he was talking to.
At the time I had no idea that it was the boy I would fall in love with...

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

＞＞＞Choose Byron

Byron, Chapter 1：

Mr. Branche：Goodness, are you still here?
I turned curiously to see who Mr. Branche was talking to.
Two young men stood behind me, one with big, bright eyes, and the other much taller and wearing glasses.
???：There were a lot of preparations to sort out.
???：That reminds me, there was a freshman looking for you, Mr. Branche.
???：It sounded like it was urgent.
Mr. Branche：Thank you. I'll go as soon as I've walked Jily back to the front doors.
Mr. Branche smiled reassuringly at the two young men.
The taller one adjusted his glasses, his expression questioning.
???：The front doors?
Mr. Branche：Jily is a new student who's just enrolled.
Mr. Branche：I've only just shown her around the school so she's not used to where everything is yet.

（It sounds like something urgent, and I wish I could tell you that I'll be fine.）
（But you're right. I still have no idea where everything is yet.）

The two young men exchanged glances, both looking thoughtful.
Then the shorter one's face brightened as if he'd had an idea.
???：It really seemed like that freshman needed to see you urgently.
???：If you like, we'll walk her back to the front doors!

（What?）

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

???：If you like, we'll walk her back to the front doors!

（What?）

My eyes widened in surprise at the unexpected offer.
The taller man looked just as surprised as I was, and he turned to mutter to the shorter one.
???：Wha—why would you just—
Mr. Branche：Really? That would certainly help me out! Would that be okay with you, Jily?
Jily：Well, yes, I'd be grateful, but—
I glanced uncertainly at the young man in the glasses.
Mr. Branche turned and smiled brightly at him.
Mr. Branche：What do you think? You could consider this a form of cultural exchange.

（I knew it. He doesn't want to.）

But then the young man adjusted his glasses and spoke briskly to Mr. Branche.
???：I guess it can't be helped. Very well. We'll take her there.
Jily：Thank you very much.
I breathed a sigh of relief as I turned and curtseyed to the two young men.
???：Okay then, let's get going! Oh, I'm sorry, your name was...?
Jily：I'm Jily. It's very nice to meet you.
I followed along after the two of them as they headed towards the front entrance.

（You seem really kind.）

The younger one with the big, bright eyes glanced back at me as we walked.
His smile was friendly as he introduced himself.
Nico：My name's Nico, and I'm a freshman. This is Albert, he's a senior.
Nico：We're from Stein Institute.
Jily：Really?

（So you don't go to Wysterian?）
（That's right, I did hear that Stein Institute is our sister school.）
（But isn't that a school that nobles go to? Oh wow!）

Jily：I had no idea there was anyone here from Stein. Is there a cultural exchange event going on?
Nico smiled brightly at my question.
Nico：Yes! It's a joint school festival.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Nico：Yes! It's a joint school festival.
He went on to explain that the festival was run by both schools,
and that it was held alternately at one or the other each year.

（I had no idea such an event existed.）

Nico：And there's also talk about the school festival magic, so everyone gets really excited about it every year.
Jily：School festival magic?
Albert was the one to reply to my question, his voice slightly exasperated.
Albert：It's just foolish gossip, with no basis in reality.
He went on to explain that apparently, if you professed your love to someone during the fireworks at the end of the festival,
that person would return your feelings, allowing you to be together.
Nico：It's famous as the magic that brings true love.

（That sounds wonderful.）

Excitement filled me up inside as I imagined what the school festival might be like.
Albert glanced at me and continued to explain.
Albert：This year the festival is being held at Royal Wysterian Academy.
Albert：So we're here with Lord Byron, who is our student body president.
Jily：So your president is here, too?
Nico：The joint school festival was originally Lord Byron's idea.
Nico explained that Lord Byron was the son of the director of Stein Institute,
and that he'd suggested the joint school festival as a way to help the institute.
Albert：Lord Byron is always thinking about the school above all else.
Nico：He's someone we really respect.

（Even though I've never met him, I can certainly tell how popular he is.）
（And I don't know, but something about you two—）

I glanced at the pride and joy in their expressions as they spoke about Byron.
I couldn't help but smile at them both.

（You seem like you really enjoy talking about him.）

The three of us continued to chat as we walked through the school.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

The three of us continued to chat as we walked through the school.
At last we reached the stairs leading down to the front entrance, and I stopped and turned to Nico and Albert.
Jily：Thank you for walking me all this way.
Nico：Is this far enough? Are you sure you don't want us to walk you to the gate?
Nico's expression was concerned as he met my gaze.
I shook my head quickly, smiling as I looked up at him.
Jily：No, it's fine. From here I know I just need to walk straight across the schoolyard.
Nico smiled with relief at my response, and Albert nodded as well.
Albert：Very well then. Take care.
Jily：I will. Thank you so much.

（I never expected to meet such kind people here before I'd even started attending.）
（Now I'm really looking forward to my time here—and to the festival as well.）

I curtseyed politely to the both of them, but as I did so—
Jily：Oh!
One of my earrings fell out of my ear and tumbled down the stairs.
I hurried after it in an attempt to pick it up.
But I missed my footing, and lost my balance.

（Oh no!）

Just as I realized I was falling, I found myself caught and held in a steadying embrace.
???：Careful.
I looked up in surprise, and my gaze met that of the most dignified young man I'd ever seen.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

I looked up in surprise, and my gaze met that of the most dignified young man I'd ever seen.

（Oh gosh, I don't know why, but... I can't seem to tear my eyes away.）

I felt as if time had stopped as I stared into the deep blue gaze of the young man holding me in his arms.
A deep, slightly husky voice spoke softly in my ear.
???：Are you okay?
At his words I realized just how close we were, and my heart began to pound like crazy.
Jily：I'm so sorry! Yes, I'm fine.
I hurriedly pulled myself from his grasp and stood up straight.
At the same moment Nico and Albert rushed towards us.
Nico：Are you okay, Jily?
Jily：Yes!
I smiled reassuringly at them both, and Albert turned to the man who'd rescued me.
Albert：What about you, Lord Byron? You didn't get hurt, did you?

（Lord Byron?! Hang on, don't tell me this is—）

Byron nodded to Albert, and turned his gaze on me again.
Byron：You don't appear to be hurt.
Jily：No, I'm fine.

（I was so fascinated to listen to those two tell me about Lord Byron, but—）
（I had no idea I'd end up meeting him like this!）

I was too stunned by our unexpected meeting to do more than just stand there, blinking up at him.
Byron：I see. You should take care on your way home.
Byron nodded again, and then turned and headed into the school.

（Oh!）

I realized then that I hadn't actually said thank you.
But he was walking quietly away, and a moment later he was gone.
Nico：We'll see you later, Jily!
Albert：Be careful you don't trip over your feet again.
And with those parting words, Nico and Albert turned away,
and hurried after Byron back into the school.

（He seems like the sort of person it would be impossible to get close to.）
（And yet—）

〝Byron：Careful.〞
〝Byron：Are you okay?〞

His deep blue gaze, so close as he'd stared at me, had left a lasting impression on me.

（I can't help but want to talk to him again.）
（I wonder why I feel that way?）

My heart was still racing in my chest, and I frowned a little in confusion.

＊＊＊

The next day, after school—

Byron, Chapter 2：

The next day, after school—
I'd finished my first day of classes, and I crossed the schoolyard, carrying a small bag.

（Well, that didn't really work out.）

That afternoon, my classmates and I had tried making some cookies to sell at the school festival.
But when mine had come out of the oven looking shapeless and strange.
I sighed as I glanced down at the bag I was carrying.

（I guess I'll just have to practice a few more times before we try again.）

I cheered myself up with that promise as I approached the front gates.
As I got closer, I spotted a familiar figure standing nearby.
Jily：Lord Byron—
Byron：Yes?

（Oops!）

As Byron turned and met my gaze, I realized that I'd spoken his name aloud.

（I didn't mean to, but—I wonder if he has a spare moment to talk?）

Byron was looking at me curiously, so I plucked up the courage to speak.
Jily：Um—thank you very much for saving me yesterday.
Jily：I didn't get a chance to thank you properly then.
Byron：It's fine.
Byron spoke as if the matter was nothing important.
His gaze dropped to the bag I was carrying.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Byron's gaze dropped to the bag I was carrying.
Byron：Is that a gift for someone?

（Oh!）

I looked down at the bag as well, my shoulders slumping a little.
Jily：No, it's a failed attempt at baking.
Jily：I was trying to make some cookies to sell at the school festival, but they lost their shape somehow.
Jily：So I'm taking them home for my family to eat.
Jily：I'm a little embarrassed that they turned out so badly...
I gave him a small, chagrined smile as I opened the bag and showed him the contents.

（If they'd turned out better, maybe I could've given you some as thanks for yesterday.）

Byron：Failing at something is nothing to be ashamed of.
Byron：It will lead to your future success.

（Lord Byron—）

His gentle words seemed to fill my heart with warmth.

（Yesterday I thought you'd be impossible to get close to.）
（But you're actually really kind, aren't you?）

I looked up from the bag of cookies, and—
Jily：Oh!
Byron reached into the bag and took out a cookie, popping it into his mouth.
Jily：Lord Byron, those are—
My words tumbled over each other in their haste, but Byron only swallowed the cookie and smiled at me.
Byron：Not bad. I'm sure you'll be able to improve the shape in no time.
His words and his smile were kind and reassuring.
But for some reason they sent a joyful quiver through my heart.
Jily：Thank you very much.

（I wonder if you have time to chat to me a little longer?）

For some reason I naturally found myself wanting to spend more time with Byron.
So after a moment, I spoke again.
Jily：Um—I heard that the joint school festival was your idea.
Jily：I've never been to such a big event before, not at any of the other schools I've been at.
Jily：I'm really excited about attending the festival.
I smiled up at Byron as I spoke.
Byron dropped his gaze away from me, his expression thoughtful.
Byron：Excited? Hmm. I never thought about it like that.

（Really?）

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Byron：Excited? Hmm. I never thought about it like that.

（Really?）

Byron：I thought it would be a place for sharing culture,
Byron：for mutual exchange of information.
The words were not what I'd expected, and I hesitated, unsure how to respond.

（Exchange of information? Well, you're right, that's important too, but...）

Jily：Well, yes. But I think an event like this has more meaning than just that.
I looked up at Byron again, putting my thoughts into words as best I could.
Jily：When we learn about other countries' cultures, and make friends from those countries—
Jily：Well, it helps us expand our own opinions and views.
Jily：And I think it's wonderful to have chances like that while we're still students.
Byron's eye widened slightly in surprise at my words.

（I know they said that you value the institute above all else.）
（But you're still a student yourself, right?）

Jily：So maybe you should try to be excited and enjoy it too?
The words came out without hesitation.
I looked up and realized he was listening carefully, and I caught my breath.

（Oh gosh. You're a noble, and I barely know you, and here I am telling you what to do.）

Jily：Um—I'm sorry, I was—
Byron：No, it's fine. I will take it into consideration.
Byron's expression relaxed into a smile, and I breathed a quick sigh of relief.
Yet the sight of his smile did odd things to my heart.

（I only met you yesterday. Yet whenever I'm with you my heart races.）
（I don't understand.）

My cheeks felt warmed by the light of the late afternoon sun, and perhaps by something else as well.

＊＊＊

Several days later—

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Several days later, after school—
Byron was walking through the corridors of the school.
He heard the sound of a familiar voice coming from the nearby kitchen.
He paused mid-step, and then turned towards the door.
It was open just slightly, and he peered inside.
He could see Jily and several of her friends inside, in the process of making cookies.
Byron：You look like you'll succeed this time.
Byron smiled at Jily's focused, serious expression.
Then he turned and continued on down the corridor.

＊＊＊

A little while later—

（If these work out, I'd like to give a few to Lord Byron.）

My friends and I were standing around, waiting for the cookies to finish baking.
There was a lull in our conversation, and then one of them began talking excitedly.
Female Student 1：Hey, I heard this just today.
Female Student 1：You know Lord Byron, the Stein Institute student body president? They say he's getting engaged!

（Wait, what?）

I lifted my head with a start at her words.
Female Student 1：I heard that his future fiancée is a senior here at Royal Wysterian Academy.
Female Student 1：Apparently she's the daughter of a noble family.

（Lord Byron is getting engaged...）

An image of Byron floated through my mind.
At the same time I felt an ache deep down in my heart.

（Hang on, why does that make me feel this way?）

I frowned in confusion, trying to work out my own feelings.
But my friend spoke again, her voice full of amusement.
Female Student 1：Of course, it's just a rumor, so who knows if it's true.
But another friend joined in, merriment in her tone.
Female Student 2：But if people are whispering about it, they must be pretty close.
Female Student 2：And if they are, they probably don't even need the school festival magic, right?

（Oh! Hang on, the festival magic—）

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Female Student 2：And if they are, they probably don't even need the school festival magic, right?

（Oh! Hang on, the festival magic—）

〝Nico：And there's also talk about the school festival magic, so everyone gets really excited about it every year.〞
〝Nico：It's famous as the magic that brings true love.〞

Nico's cheerful words popped into my mind.
A moment later my friend turned to me and said,
Female Student 2：Jily, have you heard about that?
Jily：Oh! Um—yes. That's the magic that brings true love, right?
Female Student 2：So, do you have someone you want to profess your love to?

（Profess my love?）

For some reason an image of Byron flashed through my mind again.

（Wait, Lord Byron is—）
（No, my friend just said he's getting engaged.）

That piercing ache hit me in the heart again.
Jily：No, I can't think of anyone right now.
I smiled and tried to answer the question naturally.
But I couldn't quite look my friend in the eye.

（We've only spoken a few times so far. And yet—）

〝Byron：Are you okay?〞

〝Byron：Failing at something is nothing to be ashamed of.〞
〝Byron：It will lead to your future success.〞

I couldn't forget the lingering sense of excitement I felt whenever I was with Byron.
Yet remembering it now only made my heart ache even more.

（I think I've fallen for Lord Byron.）
（But—）

Female Student 2：But if people are whispering about it, they must be pretty close.

（He's completely out of my reach, isn't he?）

I sighed softly to myself, trying to push away the confusion in my heart.

＊＊＊

Our chatter went on, and before we knew it, the cookies were ready.

Byron, Chapter 3：

I was carrying cookies fresh out of the oven as I headed to see Byron.

（Even if I can't tell him how I feel—）
（I can at least give him these cookies, and thank him.）

My feelings seemed to hang over me as I stopped in front of a classroom.

（This is the room Mr. Branche directed me to, right?）
（I know Albert and Nico will be in here too, but—）

It would be the first time I'd spoken to Byron since I'd realized how I felt about him.
I couldn't hide how nervous I was feeling.
I took a deep breath and let it out again before opening the door.
Jily：Excuse me?
I knocked briefly as I stepped into the room.
Nico：Huh? Jily?
Nico's eyes widened in surprise as he turned and saw me in the doorway.
Albert and Byron both turned to look at me a moment later.
Nico：What's the matter?
Jily：Um—I've been practicing making cookies to sell at the school festival.
Jily：I thought maybe you might like some. To thank you for helping me out the other day.
I smiled hopefully and held out the bag I was carrying.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

I smiled hopefully and held out the bag of cookies I was carrying.
Byron：It sounds like they worked out this time.
Byron's voice was gentle as he crossed the room towards me.
Jily：Yes.

（I'm glad you remembered.）

It was a little thing, yet it still filled me with happiness.
Byron：You were very serious when you were making them.
Jily：What?
Byron：Nothing. Just talking to myself.

（That almost sounded as if you saw me making them. But that's just silly, isn't it?）

I blinked doubtfully up at Byron's faint smile.
But then Nico came towards us, his face bright with surprise and pleasure.
Nico：Thank you, Jily!
Nico：And since you've gone to all the trouble to bring us refreshments, I think we should take a short break.
Albert：Why you—you already took a break and stopped working only a few minutes ago!
Albert's voice was filled with exasperation, and he gave a loud sigh.
Nico：Al, you spend way too much time focusing on the minor details.
Nico：We need to take regular breaks. Don't you think so, Lord Byron?
Byron：Yes, let's take a short break.
Albert：...If you say so, Lord Byron.
I couldn't help but smile as I stood there listening to their lively, heated discussion.

（Well, you all seem happy about it.）
（I'm glad I plucked up the courage to bring them for you.）

Jily：There's plenty for everyone, so please, enjoy them.
Byron turned to look at me, and surprise crossed his face.
He studied me in silence for a moment.
Then he reached out towards me.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Byron studied me in silence for a moment, surprise on his face.
Then he reached out towards me.

（Wait a minute—）

He twined his fingers in my hair, gently untangling it.
Jily：Um? Lord Byron?
My heart was singing and my pulse was racing as I looked up at him.
His gaze were gentle as it met mine.
Byron：You've got flour caught in your hair. Hold still.
Jily：Okay.
Out of the corner of my eye, I could see Nico's impish smile.
He leaned over and began to whisper to Albert, standing next to him.
Nico：Ooh, it almost feels like we're interrupting something good.
Albert：What are you talking about?
Nico：Geez, Al, you're so dense.

（Something good?! C'mon, Nico!）

My cheeks burned at Nico's whispered words.

（I hope Lord Byron can't hear you!）

I did my best to stand still until at last the warmth of Byron's hand moved away again.
Jily：Thank you.
Byron：You're welcome.

（I know it's selfish of me, but I wouldn't have minded if that went on a little longer.）

I chewed a little on my lower lip as I glanced up at him.
He was studying me, his expression serious.
Slowly his eye widened, just a little.

（Now what's the matter?）

I blinked up at Byron in confusion, and he smiled gently at me.
Byron：Your expression is ever-changing.
Jily：It is?
My eyes widened in shock at his unexpected statement.
Our eyes met again, and I felt captivated by his gaze, just as I had on the day we'd met.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Our eyes met again, and I felt captivated by Byron's gaze, just as I had on the day we'd met.
Byron：I feel like I'd never get tired of watching you.
Jily：Um—
His soft words and his gentle expression set my heart pounding so loud I felt sure he'd hear it.

（Ahh, I know I shouldn't be letting myself get all excited like this.）
（After all, you're—）

〝Female Student 1：You know Lord Byron, the Stein Institute student body president? They say he's getting engaged!〞
〝Female Student 1：Of course, it's just a rumor, so who knows if it's true.〞
〝Female Student 2：But if people are whispering about it, they must be pretty close.〞

I dropped my gaze away, feeling sadness welling up inside.
But a moment later Nico's bright voice echoed through the room.
Nico：Hey, Jily! Have you decided what to do on the day of the school festival?

（What?）

The sudden question startled me, but after a moment I smiled and shrugged at him.
Jily：They told me they already have enough people to sell cookies on the day.
Jily：I don't need to help my class, either, so I don't know yet what I'm going to do.
Nico's expression brightened immediately at my response.
Nico：Then I have a great idea.
He smiled at me, his sparkling gaze mischievous somehow.

＊＊＊

At last it was finally the day of the school festival.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

At last it was finally the day of the school festival.
The schoolyard was filled with stalls and crowded with people.
I stood near the school gates, watching curiously.

（Well, this is definitely where they said to meet, but...）

I thought back to the day when I'd given them my cookies as a gift.

〝Nico：Then I have a great idea. Why don't you go around the festival with us?〞
〝Jily：What?〞
〝Albert：Wha—now what are you just spouting off—〞
〝Nico：But we're all really familiar with the school festival.〞
〝Nico：And look, we've all gotten so close!〞
〝Nico：It would be great, don't you think, Lord Byron?〞
〝Byron was silent for a moment, then he looked at me.〞
〝Byron：What do you want to do?〞
〝Jily：Me?〞
〝Jily：If it wouldn't be any trouble, I'd enjoy attending the festival with you.〞
〝Byron：Very well.〞

（I never imagined I'd get a chance like this!）

Even days later I was still filled with a mix of surprise and happiness.

（I still haven't really sorted out my feelings for Lord Byron.）
（But even so, I'd like to have a fun day together with him, and with everyone else.）

I smiled to myself in anticipation, and at that moment someone tapped me on the shoulder.

You can proceed to the Premium Ending!

Continue your romance with your prince♪

Decision Time>>>

Select the Sweet Ending>>>

Byron, Chapter 4-Sweet Ending：

Suddenly someone tapped me on the shoulder.
Nico：Jily!
I turned around to find Nico standing behind me, smiling brightly.
Behind him I saw Albert and Byron walking towards us.
Byron：Were you waiting long?
Jily：No, not at all.
Byron：I see.
Byron smiled gently at me, and my heart began to pound.
Albert：The campus is large, so let's get going right away.
Jily：Okay!

（I hope today will become filled with wonderful memories.）

I tried to ignore my racing heart as I glanced up at Byron, walking just ahead.
The four of us moved towards the bustling schoolyard.

＊＊＊

We began to wander around, looking at all the stalls.
Nico：If anything catches your eye, just let us know.
Albert：You don't need to hold back at a time like this.
Jily：Are you sure? But—

（Don't you all have things you want to look at?）
（I don't want this to just be about me.）

I gave them a hesitant smile, but then Byron said,
Byron：Didn't you say you were excited about today?

（Oh!）

〝Jily：I'm really excited about attending the festival.〞
〝Byron：Excited? Hmm.〞

（You really are so kind, Byron.）

I felt warm and happy inside, and I nodded firmly.
Jily：Thank you very much.
We began to wander past the stalls again, until one in particular caught my eye.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Suddenly a particular stall caught my eye.

（Ooooh!）

The stall had all sorts of bright, handmade accessories on display.

（Oh, those are adorable!）

My gaze was caught by a pair of teardrop earrings that looked like tiny reflections of the starry night sky.
As a gazed at them, I heard Byron speak softly in my ear.
Byron：Do you like them?
Jily：Oh! Um, no.

（I know you all told me not to hold back and all that.）
（But I think we should find something that we can all enjoy together.）

With that thought in mind, I turned to look at the plaza.
Jily：I'm kind of interested in the events happening over at the plaza.
Nico：Well then, let's go and look.
Jily：Okay.
I smiled and turned to follow after Nico.
Byron：You go on ahead.
Jily：What?
Albert：But Lord Byron—
Both Albert and I turned to look at Byron in surprise.
But Nico's expression brightened with a sudden, knowing smile.
Nico：Very well. Come on, you two, let's go.

（Don't tell me something urgent came up?）

I glanced doubtfully at Byron again, but Nico urged me onwards.
The three of us headed towards the plaza, leaving Byron behind.

＊＊＊

Byron rejoined us again not long after, and we continued to look around the festival.
Time seemed to fly by, and soon it began to grow dark.

（I guess it's almost time for the festival to end.）
（I think all that's left is the fireworks show at the end.）

Albert：Is there anything else you want to look at?
Jily：No, I'm fine. Thank you for showing me around to so many different places.

（In the end I never got to tell Lord Byron how I feel.）
（But it really has been a wonderful day.）

I curtseyed politely to the three of them.
As I did so, Nico suddenly spoke up, as if remembering something.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Nico suddenly spoke up, as if remembering something.
Nico：Ahh, I forgot! The two of us have to do a final check of things, don't we?
Albert：What? I didn't hear anything about—
Nico：You just didn't know about it!
Nico ignored Albert's reaction and stepped closer to me.
He lowered his voice and whispered so that only I could hear him.
Nico：Good luck with the rest, Jily.

（What?! Hang on, don't tell me you guessed how I feel?）

Nico：Lord Byron, Jily, please enjoy the rest of the festival!
I stood stock still, my eyes wide with shock.
Nico grabbed a scowling Albert by the arm and the two of them walked away.

（Wait a minute—now I'm alone with Byron!）

Silence fell between us, and I glanced up at Byron.
He was frowning a little, his expression thoughtful, his gaze lowered.

（What do I do now?）

The situation was completely unexpected, and confusion and excitement fought for control of me.
Then at last Byron spoke, breaking the silence.
Byron：Will you come with me?
Jily：What?
Byron：I have something I want to give you.
My heart began to race again at his unexpected words.
Jily：Okay.

（I wonder what it is?）

Byron turned away, and I hurried after him, my stomach doing somersaults.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Byron led me to the gardens near the dorms, and we sat down together on a bench.

（It's weird, but now that we're in such a quiet place—）

We'd moved away from the noise and bustle of the festival.
But somehow that made me even more aware of the fact that we were alone.
Byron：Here.
Byron held out a small parcel, wrapped in brightly colored paper.
Jily：Oh! Can I open it now?
Byron：Yes.
I carefully opened the parcel, and inside I found—

（Oh my gosh! These are from that stall!）

It was the earrings I'd been admiring earlier in the day.
Jily：But why...
I looked up at Byron in awe and confusion.
His expression relaxed into a gentle smile.
Byron：You denied it at the time, but you really liked them, didn't you?
Byron：I chose them because I thought they would suit you. Was I wrong about you liking them?
Jily：No, it's not that! They're lovely. Thank you so much!

（So when you said that—）

Byron：You go on ahead.

（It was because you were buying these for me?）

Jily：I'm really happy.
Byron：I'm glad to hear it.
His casual kindness only seemed to strengthen my feelings for him.

（Ahh, I can't hide how I feel anymore.）
（It doesn't matter if you don't feel the same. I just want to tell you.）

I took a deep breath, and then looked up and met his gaze directly.
Jily：Lord Byron, is it okay if I say something?
Byron：Yes.
Jily：I know that this is something that I shouldn't tell you, but—
Jily：I like you.
My words were breathy, full of all the emotions lodged in my heart.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Jily：I like you.
My words were breathy, full of all the emotions lodged in my heart.
Byron：I feel the same about you.
Jily：Wait, what?
My eyes widened in disbelief at his words, and I couldn't help but voice the first thing I thought of.
Jily：But... what about your fiancée?
Byron：Fiancée? What are you talking about?

（You mean that really was nothing more than a rumor?）

All of the tension drained out of me in one go.
Byron：It sounds like there's been a misunderstanding.
Byron smiled as he spoke, and leaned towards me.

（Oh!）

He wrapped his arms around me in a gentle embrace.
Byron：It's strange but... when I'm with you, my heart feels at ease.
Byron：You are the only one in my thoughts. That's the truth of it.

（Oh, Byron—）

His direct words filled my heart with joy and wonder.
As I reached out and wrapped my arms tightly around him—

（Oh!）

The night sky overhead was filled with loud noises and bright lights in a myriad of colors.
The fireworks to celebrate the end of the festival had begun.
Jily：The school festival magic...
Byron：Did you say something?
I'd muttered the words under my breath almost without thinking.
Byron leaned closer to catch my gaze, his expression curious.
Jily：No, it was nothing.
I smiled up at him, leaning into his embrace once more.

（The school festival magic...）
（Was it magic that gave me the courage to tell you how I feel?）

The cheers from the crowds and the sound of the fireworks overhead seemed distant to me in that moment.
I pressed my cheek against Byron's broad chest, snuggling up against his warmth...

fin.

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Byron, Chapter 4-Premium Ending：

Suddenly someone tapped me on the shoulder.
Mr. Branche：Jily?
I turned in surprise to find Mr. Branche standing behind me.
Mr. Branche：Ahh, it is you.
Mr. Branche：You look different somehow today, so for a moment I wasn't sure.
I knew what he was talking about—I'd decided to put in extra effort since the festival was a special occasion.
I'd dressed more nicely, and done my hair up in a special updo.
Mr. Branche：You look lovely.
Jily：Thank you.

（Gosh, I hope Byron thinks so too.）

A faint hope burst into life inside me, and then Mr. Branche spoke again.
Mr. Branche：Oh yes, that's right. I have a message for you from Nico.
Jily：What? Really?
Mr. Branche nodded quickly and went on to explain.
Apparently an urgent matter had come up that Nico and Albert needed to attend to.
Nico had requested that I spend the day alone with Byron instead.
Mr. Branche：Apparently Byron is waiting in front of the hall.
Mr. Branche：So Nico asked if you could meet him there instead.

（Wait, I'm going to spend the whole day alone with Byron?!）

The realization set my heart racing with excitement.

（I'm gonna be so nervous! But I'm so happy, too!）

Jily：Thank you for letting me know.
I curtseyed politely to Mr. Branche, and hurried to where Byron was waiting.

＊＊＊

At last I reached the hall.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

At last I reached the hall.
I spotted Byron standing outside, and I hurried towards him.
Jily：Sorry to keep you waiting.
Byron：Not at all. Sorry for changing things at the last minute.
Jily：No, it's fine.

（Only now that I'm here, I can't stop thinking about the fact that it's just you and me.）
（I don't quite feel like I can look you in the eye.）

I could feel myself blushing, and I looked up at the hall, hoping to change the subject.
Jily：They're holding a play here in the hall, aren't they?
Byron：Yes. Do you want to see it?
Jily：I'd like that.
I tried to ignore my pounding heart as I turned towards the hall.
Together we stepped inside to see the play.

＊＊＊

When we'd finished watching the play, we headed to the schoolyard to look at the stalls.
Jily：I heard that everything for the play was built entirely by the students.
I couldn't stop thinking about the play we'd watched.
My heart was filled with all the emotions it had stirred in me.
Jily：It must be wonderful to be able to create such an amazing set like that.
Byron：Yes. Apparently they have to start preparing a long time in advance.
Jily：I can imagine that.

（I hope I can take part in lots more things next year!）

I smiled up at Byron as I imagined what the next festival might be like.
Byron：Ahh, you finally looked at me.
Jily：What?

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Byron：Ahh, you finally looked at me.
Jily：What?
Byron：You've spent most of today avoiding my gaze.
Byron：I thought maybe you weren't enjoying yourself, but it seems I was wrong.
As soon as he said that, I realized that my gaze had naturally turned towards him as we spoke.
And I remembered how I'd been unable to look at him when we first met.

（Have you been worried about me? I didn't mean that!）
（But it makes me happy to have you thinking about even little things like that.）

His kindness warmed me deep inside.

（I'm definitely enjoying myself! But—）

Jily：Are you enjoying yourself, Lord Byron?
Byron's expression seemed to relax at my question.
Byron：Yes. Wandering around like this is new for me. I like it.

（Thank goodness.）

Byron：And... that hairstyle is new, too. It suits you.

（Oh gosh, you noticed!）

My heart skipped a beat at his words, and I smiled shyly up at him.
Byron turned and glanced around us.
Byron：Let's go somewhere else.
Jily：Are you sure?
Byron：I know a good place.

（A good place?）

＊＊＊

I followed after Byron as he led me across the school grounds.
Eventually we reached a garden near the dorms, a short distance from the school buildings.

（But why did you bring me here?）

I looked around curiously as the sky began to grow dark.

（Oh!）

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

I looked around curiously as the sky began to grow dark.

（Oh!）

I looked up at the sudden loud noise overhead, and realized the fireworks had started.

（I had no idea the fireworks at the end of the festival would be so wonderful.）

The darkening sky was filled with sudden flashes of vivid, gorgeous colors, and I stared up at them in wonder.
Then I heard a deep, gentle voice murmuring in my ear.
Byron：I thought this would be a quieter place to watch them from.

（Oh! So when you said you knew a good place, this is what you meant.）

Jily：Thank you!
I looked over at Byron, smiling as I spoke.
All of a sudden I remembered the rumor about the school festival magic.

（The magic that brings true love.）
（When this festival is over, I probably won't get to see you anymore, Lord Byron.）

All my memories of the times I'd spent with Byron flitted through my mind.
Byron：You don't appear to be hurt.
Byron：You should take care on your way home.
Byron：Your expression is ever-changing.
Byron：I feel like I'd never get tired of watching you.

（I don't really believe the magic would work... ）
（but I'd at least like to tell you how I feel.）

Just as I thought that, Byron began to speak again, his voice soft and deep.
Byron：I wanted to see this with you.
Jily：You—did?
My eyes widened in surprise as I stared up at Byron.
The fireworks seemed to reflect in his eye, making it sparkle as he met my gaze.
Byron：It's not easy to speak your mind and persuade others of your opinion.
Byron：But strangely, your words seem to have that power.
My heart began to race at his words, my tummy doing sudden somersaults.
Byron：Jily, I'd like you to stay by my side.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Byron：Jily, I'd like you to stay by my side.

（Oh gosh! But—）

〝Female Student 1：You know Lord Byron, the Stein Institute student body president? They say he's getting engaged!〞

Jily：But I heard that you have a fiancée...
I spoke without thinking, and Byron's expression turned curious.
Byron：I don't have a fiancée. That's just a rumor.
His words filled me with surprise and a sudden sense of relief.

（Whew, I'm so glad to hear that!）

I looked up at Byron again, and he smiled as he reached out to stroke my cheek.
Jily：Oh—
The sudden touch brought a blush to my cheeks, and I smiled shyly up at him.
Byron：But then again, I wouldn't mind welcoming you in that way.

（Oh my gosh!）

My eyes were wide as I stared up at him in disbelief.
I could see amusement lurking deep in his gaze.

（And yet, those words make me happier than I could ever have imagined.）

Byron：What do you think?
His question was kind, with an edge of hesitancy to it.
The pounding of my heart seemed to roar in my ears as I said,
Jily：I'd like to stay by your side. Always.
Byron's lips curved into a slow smile at my words.
A moment later those smiling lips captured mine in a kiss.
He pulled me into a warm embrace, his lips soft and gentle against mine.

（I hope the school festival magic comes true.）
（Because I want to be with you forever.）

The bright, sparkling colors of the fireworks shone down on us from above,
as I closed my eyes and melted into Byron's sure embrace...

fin.

After Episode

Clear an Ending and Read...

You and Byron have officially become a couple.
Now share a sweet evening together with him after your graduation.
Byron：You probably shouldn't say such sweet things too often.
Byron smiles slowly as he gently strokes your hair.
Byron：If that's your wish, then I'll stay.
Byron：And not just tonight. Forever.
The sweet sounds of your passionate voices fill the room...
Will you let Byron love you with all his heart and soul?