♔亞緣腐宅窩♔

A Wedding Story Event－Royal Wedding（Leo）

A beautiful dress that any woman would yearn for.
Jily "I wouldn't mind wearing a wedding dress, you know."
An unexpected story unfolds, all because of your casual comment.
…………
………
Leo "Ahh, I'm pathetic. I never thought you'd look this beautiful."
Leo's cheeks are slightly flushed as he pulls you into an embrace.
…………
………
This is a story of special vows, vows that only you will ever know.
Who will you swear your eternal love to?

The Royal Wedding Story Event is happening now!
In this Story Event there are 3 Endings to choose from: Sweet, Premium, and Secret!
You can reach a Secret Ending after clearing a Premium Ending and acquiring the required Charm.
The Secret Ending is a story from his perspective so you don't want to miss it!
After clearing an ending with your suitor, you can read his After Episode.
If you purchase every suitor's After Episode you can receive...
This special limited-edition Royal Wedding After Episodes Bonus Card!
Also, be sure to check out the Royal Wedding Sets to get a Mini character of your favorite suitor!
Place your adorable Mini character in your room to show your love for your guy.

Prologue：

It was late evening, and the stars shone bright in the sky overhead.
I was lying in bed, thinking about what had happened earlier that day.
I'd been taking a short break from my work, and Nico had been pouring tea for me.

〝Nico：That dress is lovely.〞
〝Nico set the teacup down on the table in front of me as he spoke.〞
〝Jily：Thank you. Actually?〞
〝In Wysteria it has long been said that if you get married at this time of year,〞
〝you will be guaranteed happiness.〞
〝And in accordance with this tradition,〞
〝there was a custom in the town of making dresses during this time.〞
〝Jily：They say if you make your own dress and wear it,〞
〝Jily：the person you love will fall in love with you, too.〞
〝As I finished explaining, Nico smiled suddenly.〞
〝Nico：So in other words, that dress will become a wedding dress one day, right?〞

〝（A wedding dress?）〞

〝I raised my teacup to my lips as I considered Nico's words.〞

I slowly closed my eyes, still thinking about our conversation.

（I wonder if I'll have the chance to wear a wedding dress one day?）

As I tried to imagine how I might look, I fell into a deep sleep.

＊＊＊

The next day?

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

＞＞＞Choose Leo

Leo, Chapter 1：

The next day the sky was a bright, glorious blue overhead.
That day, one of the maids who worked for me was getting married,
so I asked Leo to help me build a champagne tower for her wedding reception.

（I'm so glad we did it. The two of them looked so happy.）

I thought back to how the happy couple smiled at each other as they poured champagne over the tower.
I'd been helping tidy up the glasses afterwards, but now I paused, a glass still in my hand.

（I wonder if that'll be me one day.）

I stared down at the glass in my hand, trying to imagine what my wedding might look like.
Then I realized Leo was leaning in close to stare at me.
Leo：What's wrong?
Jily：Hmm? Oh, nothing.
I shook my head and smiled at him briefly before returning my gaze to the glasses.
I moved to pack away the last few still left, but my thoughts were still wandering.

（I'd love to have the chance to do that someday, too.）

I could feel Leo's gaze on me for a moment, as if he were trying to figure out what I was thinking.
I looked up at him, but his gaze had moved to the glasses as well.

＊＊＊

That evening—
I was just folding back the covers on my bed to climb in when there was a knock at the door.

（It's awfully late—I wonder who that is?）

I stepped away from the bed, reaching for my gown where I'd laid it on a nearby chest.
Jily：Just a moment!
I pulled it on and tied the ribbon at my waist as I headed for the door.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Jily：Leo?
When I opened the door I found Leo waiting on the other side.
Leo：Sorry for coming by so late, Jily.
Jily：No, it's fine.
I smiled up at him, and stepped back to let him enter my chamber.
As I shut the door behind him, he turned to face me.
Leo：I know this is a bit sudden, but—
Leo had come to talk to me about a wedding parade that was scheduled to be held a few days later.
There were always lots of weddings held in Wysteria at this time of year,
so a parade was being held in town to celebrate and offer blessings.
Leo：With you taking part in the parade this year, everyone's been even more excited than last year.
Leo：But the parade supervisor has taken ill, probably from working too hard, knowing him.
Leo：So Giles has been given the task of overseeing the entirety of the work that's left.
Jily：But that's crazy!

（He's already so busy as it is! And tomorrow he was going to help with the final preparations for my outfit.
（How's he going to find the time for that now?）

I pressed my lips together, frowning a little as I considered what the next few days were going to be like.
Right then, Leo stepped closer to me and reached out to touch my cheek.
Jily：Leo?
I looked up at him in surprise, and he smiled suddenly, a mischievous look in his eyes.
Leo：Don't worry though. I know Giles was meant to be helping you tomorrow,
Leo：but I'll be taking his place instead.
Jily：What? Really?

（You're going to be helping me? But that means—）

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo：I know Giles was meant to be helping you tomorrow, but I'll be taking his place instead.

（Wait a minute, that means—）

I blinked up at Leo in surprise as he smirked brightly down at me.

（So the whole time I'm getting ready for the wedding parade,
（Leo's going to be with me, helping out with everything?）

I bit my lip, suddenly wondering if I'd ever be ready if Leo was involved in helping me get dressed.
Leo's hand dropped away from my cheek, and he frowned a little.
Leo：You don't like that idea?
Jily：Don't be silly—of course I do.
I quickly smiled up at him, and he leaned closer, his lips brushing against my earlobe.
Leo：I'm glad to hear it.
He pulled back a little and gazed down at me, then smiled again.
Leo：Anyway, I just wanted to let you know.
He turned away from me and headed toward the door.

（So tomorrow Leo's going to help me choose my dress for the parade.）

As I watched him walk away from me toward the door,
I suddenly found myself thinking about my maid and her new husband,
laughing as they poured champagne over the tower together.

（You know, I think she said her husband helped her pick the dress when they were preparing for the wedding.
（Suddenly I feel almost like Leo and I are getting ready for our own wedding.）

I found myself smiling at my sudden silly thought, my cheeks flushing a little as well.
At that moment Leo stopped and turned back toward me.
Leo：Oh, that reminds me—

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo：Oh, that reminds me—
Leo came straight back to where I stood and slid his arm around my waist, pulling me toward him.
Jily：Leo—!
I raised my head to look up at him as he hugged me tightly, our bodies pressed close together.
Jily：Is something the matter?
In spite of the unexpected embrace, it felt good to be cuddled in his strong, warm arms.
But a moment later he let go again, and spoke in a breezy, unconcerned tone.
Leo：I just thought, If I'm going to help you choose a dress, then I need to know your exact shape and size.
Jily：Geez, Leo.
I pulled a face at him, pushing gently against his chest, and he laughed softly as he gazed down at me.
Leo：What, were you hoping I'd take it further?
Jily：You wish!
I stuck my tongue out at him, and he grinned at me again.
Leo：Oh, my mistake. Well then, I'd better get going.
Leo：Goodnight, Jily.
He leaned over and pressed a quick kiss against my forehead, then turned and left before I could say anything more.

（You're always such a tease, Leo.）

I smiled to myself as I watched him leave, reaching up briefly to touch my forehead where he'd kissed me.

＊＊＊

The next day—
Nico told me that Giles needed to see me, so I headed for the study.

（But Leo said Giles was going to be super busy until the parade. I hope nothing bad has happened.）

I knocked hesitantly on the study door and then stepped into the room.

（What?!）

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

I stepped into the study to find Giles, Leo, and several other men who looked like bureaucrats.

（I hardly ever see so many people in here! I hope nothing's wrong.）

Giles：I'm sorry to call you here so suddenly, Princess.
Jily：No, it's fine.
I shook my head briefly at Giles, and then glanced around at all the other people.
Giles seemed to notice my wariness, and he smiled a little, his voice kind as he spoke.
Giles：We were hoping you would help us with something before you choose your dress.
Giles：We would like you to choose a partner to join you in the parade.
Jily：A partner?
This was the first I'd heard mention of any such thing, and I blinked at him in confusion.
Leo：Since it's a wedding parade, it's been decided that you need to have a prince by your side.
Leo's tone was dry, but I glanced around the room to see that everyone was nodding as if it were obvious.

（I suppose it makes sense for me to have a partner with me since it's a wedding parade and all, but—）

Jily：And you want me to be the one to choose him?
Something about the crowd of bureaucrats made me uneasy, and when Giles replied he confirmed my worst fears.
Giles：Of course. After all, the person who stands with you as your partner in this parade
Giles：will be the most likely candidate for prince consort.

Leo, Chapter 2：

Giles：The person who stands with you as your partner in this parade will be the most likely candidate for prince consort.
Giles：And since he's appearing with you in a wedding parade, the people will likely think the same when they see him.
Giles：So you should definitely be the one to choose him.
Jily：But that's—

（Don't tell me they want me to choose right here and now?）
（Without even a moment to think it over?）
（And then they're all just going to assume that whoever I choose is going to be my prince consort eventually?）

I was suddenly overwhelmed by Giles's explanation, and I glanced at Leo.
He gave me a brief chagrined smile but said nothing more, and I suddenly felt trapped.
As I stood there lost for words, one of the bureaucrats spoke suddenly.
Bureaucrat 1：Just a moment ago we were all discussing how perfect Duke Howard would be for the role.
Bureaucrat 2：Yes, certainly. He's very popular, and I'm sure the people would be delighted if he were to appear at your side In the parade.
Bureaucrat 2：What do you think, Princess?
I glanced around to see all the bureaucrats nodding, almost as if the decision were already made, and I felt more trapped than ever.

（This is crazy. How did it end up like this?）

I pressed my lips together, feeling a sudden prick of tears in my eyes.
I couldn't meet Leo's gaze at all, and I dropped my eyes to the floor.

（I mean, I get it—as the princess it makes the most sense to ask Louis to be in the parade with me. But...）

Just thinking about it hurt, an ache in my heart that made me feel tense and stiff right through.

（But I can't stand right here in front of Leo and choose someone else for a role like that.）

At last I lifted my gaze, daring to peek at his expression and see if I could guess what he was thinking.
Our eyes met, and to my surprise he smiled suddenly.

（Leo? Are you—）

Before I could finish the thought, Leo turned to face the bureaucrats who were still mumbling to each other.
He opened his mouth to speak, his voice cutting clear through the room.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo turned to face the bureaucrats and spoke in a clear voice.
Leo：You're right, it would probably be better to ask Duke Howard.
He flicked a glance at me as he spoke, and our eyes met again for a moment.
He nodded just slightly, and gave me a small smile that I knew was just for me.
I bit my lip for a moment as I met his gaze, reassured by the warmth in his eyes.

（Oh, Leo—how do you always know what I'm thinking?
（Is it so obvious to you that I'm standing here worrying about hurting your feelings?）

I sighed softly to myself and turned to face the bureaucrats again, steeling my resolve.

（These people have put all their effort into planning the parade, and Louis is the person they're all suggesting.
（As the princess, there's only one choice I can make here.）

I turned to face Giles, and spoke in a soft, sure voice so that they could all hear me.
Jily：Giles, can you make the request to Duke Howard?
Giles met my gaze, and then looked around the room as he spoke.
Giles：Very well, Princess.
Giles：Duke Howard is currently here at the palace on business, so I shall let him know.
Giles：Please return to your chamber until we receive his response.
Jily：All right.
I nodded and turned toward the door, but as I did so my eyes met Leo's again.

（I hope you know, Leo—I'd have chosen you if I could.）

My heart clenched with pain again, but as I stepped toward the door I heard Leo's soft voice from behind me.
Leo：You made the right choice, Princess.
Jily：I know.
I nodded briefly, my words barely more than a whisper, and stepped out of the study.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

＊＊＊

Once Jily had left the study, the bureaucrats made their way out of the room as well, returning to their duties.
At last they were all gone, and as Leo stared blankly at the closed door, Giles gave a soft sigh.
Giles：With the way this whole thing is going, I'm relieved she chose Duke Howard.
Giles：But are you sure, Leo? This isn't just about the parade—this makes him the strongest candidate for prince consort.
Leo glanced up at Giles, then back toward the door, and when he spoke his voice was carefully unconcerned.
Leo：The parade isn't a real wedding—it's just an event. You know that, right?
Leo stepped toward the door, still staring at it, and then at last turned to face Giles properly.
Leo：Anyway, never mind that—can I ask you a favor, Giles?
Giles：What is it?

＊＊＊

I waited in my room as Giles had requested,
reading one of the history books Leo had given me to pass the time.

（It sure has been ages since he sent me here, though.）

I glanced up at the clock and then over at the closed door,
remembering suddenly what Leo had said to me.

〝Leo：You made the right choice, Princess.〞

（I'm sure Leo said that because he wanted to reassure me that he understood.
（But I bet that doesn't stop him from feeling bad about the whole thing.）

I sighed softly, feeling mopey and irritable,
and at that moment there was a knock at the door.

（Oh, finally!）

I stood up, putting aside my book, but as the door opened, I widened my eyes in surprise.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

（Oh, finally!）

I stood up from my chair, but my eyes widened in surprise as the door opened.
Leo：Sorry for making you wait so long.
Leo stepped into the room, followed closely by multiple servants carrying armloads of dresses.
Leo：I had them bring the dresses that I thought would suit you best.
Leo：Pick whichever ones you like and try them on.
Leo smiled at me as he spoke, and I watched as a servant set up a portable hanger rack in front of me.
As soon as that was done, the other servants began to hang the dresses from it.

（Wow, they're all gorgeous!）

Jily：Did you choose all of these, Leo?
Leo：I did.
At last all the dresses were hanging on the rack, and the servants bowed and left the room.
I turned to look at Leo only to find him staring down at my body.
Jily：Leo?
Something about the look in his eyes made me slightly uneasy.
Without warning, he stepped toward me, our bodies suddenly much closer.
Jily：Hey!
His arms slid around my waist, pulling me up against him, our bodies pressed together.
Leo：I'll help you get changed.
Jily：You what?
Leo：Stand still.
I rolled my eyes at him, but he ignored me, his hands moving toward the hooks at the back of my dress.
Jily：Seriously, Leo—
But I had to admit that I liked being held in his arms, so I stayed still as he unhooked the clasps at the back of my dress.
His fingers brushed against my skin as the dress came undone, and my body quivered in response.

（It's funny how even the slightest touch from you can make me react.）

Leo turned his gaze toward me, and gave me a sudden smile.
Leo：Don't tell me you're thinking naughty things every time I touch you?

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo：Don't tell me you're thinking naughty things every time I touch you?
Jily：I think you're confusing me with you!
I mock-pouted up at him, feeling a little embarrassed that he'd noticed my reaction.
He narrowed his eyes a little, his expression amused as he laughing softly.
Leo：I'm just teasing you.
Leo：I'll come back in when you've finished getting changed.
To my surprise, he stepped away from me, then turned and left the room.

（You and your teasing. Sometimes I don't get you at all.）

I sighed softly as the door shut behind him, and then reached toward the remaining hooks on the back of my dress.
My hands stopped suddenly as I realized something.

（I can't actually reach those hooks he undid at the top—I wouldn't have been able to undress at all without his help.）

I smiled to myself at the funny little ways in which Leo chose to show his kindness.
At last I finished changing into the dress I'd decided to try on, and I turned to pick up one of the hairclips sitting on my dresser.
I looped up part of my hair and slid the clip into place, when there was a knock at the door.
Jily：Louis?
I turned in surprise as Louis stepped into the room, closing the door behind him.
He nodded a silent greeting as he stepped across the room toward me.
For a moment I watched him, but there was something tense about his expression and I dropped my gaze.

（I asked Giles to frame it as a request, not an order, but I also know Louis can't turn down a request from the princess.
（I doubt he really wants to be in the parade—I feel bad for forcing him.）

Jily：I'm sorry for making you be in the parade, Louis.
I lifted my head as I spoke, only to find Louis standing in front of me, gazing at the side of my head.
Jily：Louis?
He reached out toward me, and I turned my head in confusion, following the movements of his hand.
Louis：Hold still.

Leo, Chapter 3：

Louis：Hold still.
A moment later Louis's hand caught the clip in my hair, moving it slightly upwards with a gentle motion.
Louis：I know it's not a real wedding.
Louis：This was a choice you had to make as the princess, wasn't it?
Jily：Yes, it was.

（I'm so glad he understands.）

I gave a soft sigh of relief that there were no hard feelings, and I smiled up at him.
Jily：Thank you, Louis.
At that moment there was a knock at the door, and Leo stepped into the room.
Leo：What are you doing?
Jily：Leo?
I turned toward him and was surprised to find him frowning at us.
Louis lowered his hand from my hairclip, turning toward Leo as he spoke.
Louis：It was crooked.
Leo：Right.
Louis stared at Leo for a moment, and I could feel the sudden tension in the air.
Then Louis's gaze shifted to meet mine, and he smiled faintly at me.
Louis：I'll see you later then.
Jily：Okay.
I smiled back at him as I nodded, and he turned and walked out of the room.
The room fell silent as the door shut behind him, and I glanced at Leo.
He was still standing near the door, staring at it almost blankly.
There was a frown on his face, an expression I'd almost never seen before.

（Leo—you couldn't possibly think Louis and I were up to something behind your back, could you?）

I turned to face him, feeling uncertain for a moment.
Jily：He really was just fixing my hairclip, Leo.
Leo turned away from the door as soon as I spoke, the scowl lightening only a little at my words.
He made his way across the room to where I stood.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo turned to face me, still frowning, and stepped across the room to where I stood.
He reached out toward me, his hand catching my chin and tilting my face up to his.

（Leo?）

There was an intensity in his gaze that made my heart skip a beat.
A moment later he leaned closer, his lips catching mine in a kiss.
It was a strong, almost forceful kiss, and I gasped softly into his mouth.
His arm slid around my waist, pulling me closer, and his kisses grew more feverish.
I moaned softly, almost unwillingly, my eyes pressed firmly shut.
But there was something almost desperate about his kisses that made me uneasy.
I pulled back against his tight embrace, and our lips parted suddenly.

（You're not yourself, Leo.）

His breath was hot and fevered on my lips, and I gazed up at him worriedly as he stared down at me.
For a moment we just stared at each other, and then he smiled suddenly.
A moment later the smile was gone, and he dropped his gaze away, avoiding mine.
Leo：Ahh, I'm pathetic.
Jily：What do you mean?
Leo：I know it's stupid, but when I saw you with Louis like that—
Leo：I just couldn't bear it somehow.
I gazed up at the frown on his face, biting my lip as I considered his words.

（I guess he got jealous seeing Louis so close to me—even if he was just fixing my hairclip.）

Jily：Leo, it's okay to—
I started to speak, but Leo cut me off mid-sentence,
pressing a gentle finger against my lips in a shushing gesture.
Leo：You know, Jily—
His hand moved away from my lips, sliding down to caress the fabric of my dress.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo's hands slowly caressed the fabric of my dress, and he spoke softly.
Leo：This dress really suits you.
Leo：You look so beautiful, I don't think you even need to try on any of the other dresses.
His hands slid away from me, and then he knelt down before me on one knee.
Leo：There is one thing you've forgotten to put on, though.
Jily：There is?
I turned my eyes to follow his gaze, and frowned a little in confusion.

（Something I've forgotten to put on. He couldn't mean—）

Leo's smile broadened a little as he watched my expression.
Leo：I'm right, aren't I?
There was something devilish about his smile as he lifted my foot and placed it on his knee.
Jily：Leo, wait a minute—
I felt awkward and a little silly standing there with one foot on his knee, and I tried to pull back,
but he held my foot still with one hand, his other carefully rolling up the long skirts of my dress.
He rolled my skirts up above my knee, his fingers gently brushing against my skin.
I shivered at the gentle caress, even as he gazed up me through his long lashes.
Leo：You'd never let Louis go this far, would you?
He dropped his gaze to the floor and slowly reached out his hand.

（Oh, Leo, you're such a brat.）

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo：You'd never let Louis go this far, would you?
As he spoke, Leo reached out and picked up my silk stockings from where they sat on the floor nearby.
Then he reached toward my foot where it rested on his knee.

（He's not really going to put them on for me, is he?）

I tried again to pull my leg away from him, feeling awkward and a little silly about the whole thing.
Jily：I can put them on myself...
Leo frowned a little as he gazed up at me, his fingers keeping a light grip on my ankle.
Leo：So it's okay for Louis to touch you, but not for me?
Jily：C'mon, that's not what I meant.
Leo：Then what?
I pressed my lips together as I gazed down at him, not sure I wanted to actually put it into words.

（When you touch me, I can't help it—I get all flustered and excited, and—）

As I floundered for words, Leo's fingers fluttered along my bare leg again.
Leo：I like that expression. But it's mine and mine alone, got it?
He laughed softly, and then began to slip my stocking over my foot, sliding it slowly up to my thigh.

（Leo, you have no idea how good that feels.）

The touch of his fingers against my skin through the sheer fabric felt incredibly sensual.
I caught my breath, my heart suddenly pounding faster.
He slid the stocking slowly up my leg until the lacy top was sitting snugly against my thigh.
Then he switched legs, sliding the other stocking up my other leg, the sensation just as sensual as the first.
I could hear myself panting, just slightly, as he lifted my foot and placed a soft kiss against my ankle.
The touch of his lips sent a quiver through my whole body.
Leo smirked suddenly as he gazed up at me, his expression smugly satisfied at my reaction.
Leo：Jily—you're adorable.
He stood up slowly, letting my skirts fall back down again as he slid his arms around my waist.
His breath was warm against my ear as he whispered soft words...

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

At last it was the day of the parade.
A room had been especially prepared for me to get ready, and I'd changed into the pure white dress Leo had helped me choose.
The maids had helped style my hair, and now all I had to do was wait.

（It's not long now till the parade starts.
（I'm a little nervous—there's gonna be so many people.）

I sighed softly, trying to calm the butterflies in my stomach.
Suddenly, I remembered what Leo had said the day he helped me choose my dress.

（You know, it was a bit odd.）

〝Leo：Wait for me.〞

（What did he mean when he said that?）
（With all those servants barging in right after, I never got to ask.）

At that moment, I heard a knock at the door, followed by a voice from outside.
???：Turn away from the door and don't look, okay?
Jily：What? Why?
But I recognized the voice, so I did as I was told, waiting as I heard the door open and then close again.

（But why is he here now?）

Jily：Leo, what is it?
I listened curiously to the sound of footsteps approaching me.
Jily：Ahh!
A moment later, arms wrapped around me from behind, hugging me tightly.
Leo：I was trying to surprise you, but I guess it's not that easy, huh?

（As if I wouldn't recognize your voice. But I still didn't expect you to be here.）

I smiled to myself as I placed my hands on top of his, and leaned back against him.
Jily：Did something happen?
Leo leaned closer and spoke softly in my ear, his breath rustling my hair.
Leo：I'm here to kidnap you.

Continue your romance with your prince♪

Select the Sweet Ending>>>

Leo, Chapter 4-Sweet Ending：

Leo：I'm here to kidnap you.
Leo whispered softly before lightly kissing my earlobe.
Jily：Leo, really—
I couldn't help but laugh at the absurdity of his words.
He turned me around in his arms, gazing down with a small smile.
Leo：Just kidding.
Leo：But I bet you're not nervous anymore, right?
Jily：Leo—
I started to speak, then stopped again as I realized he was right.

（How did he know I was so nervous about the parade?）

I felt a sudden warmth spreading through me as I realized this was another of his roundabout ways of showing kindness.

（It was the same when I was being forced to choose a partner, and when I was trying to pick the right dress.
（He's always finding some way to help me out, even when it doesn't seem obvious.）

Jily：Leo, I'm sorry I couldn't choose you.
The words burst out of me suddenly, and Leo reached up to cup my cheek with his hand.
His other hand tightened around my waist, pulling me into a gentle embrace.
Leo：Don't worry about it. I knew it was gonna turn out this way.

（Oh, Leo—this is just as hard for you as it is for me, yet you're still smiling, just for me.）

I reached out and wrapped my arms around him, hugging him tightly.
Jily：Thank you.

＊＊＊

To my surprise, the parade seemed to go by in a flash, and soon it was behind me.
Once it was over, Leo bundled me into a carriage and climbed in behind me.
I didn't hear what he told the driver, but a moment later the carriage started moving.

（I wonder where we're going?）

I arranged my skirts carefully around my legs, remembering what Leo had said after the parade.

（He told me to keep my dress on and follow him, but he never told me where to.）

At that moment, the carriage stopped abruptly.
Leo：Well, here we are.
Leo climbed out of the carriage and offered me his hand, and I took it and stepped down carefully.

（But this is—）

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Jily：A church?
I stepped down from the carriage to find that we'd stopped in front of a small church.
The beautiful sight of the regal church lit up by moonlight captivated me, and then Leo tugged on my hand.

（Don't tell me—）

I let Leo lead me toward the front doors of the church, my eyes wide with disbelief.
Leo：I asked Giles to set things up for me.
Leo：We're going to have a secret wedding, just for you and me.
Jily：We are?

（Wait a minute, when he whispered to me the other day—）

〝Leo：Wait for me.〞

（Is this what he was talking about?）

I stared up at the church as I remembered his soft words, so full of promise, and my cheeks flushed with sudden delight.

（I never expected this! I'm so happy.）

Leo's expression relaxed into a smile as he gazed at me, and then he opened the church door for me.
With the door open, I could clearly see the plush red carpet leading down the aisle to the altar.

（It's just like a real wedding!）

I looked up at Leo again, still not entirely believing it was all real, and he offered me his elbow.
Leo：Will you walk down the aisle with me?
I beamed up at him and linked my elbow with his.
Jily：Of course!
We walked together down the aisle until at last we stood in front of the altar, facing each other.
The church was so quiet I could clearly hear both of us breathing.

（I never thought I'd be able to share a moment like this with Leo.
（I almost feel as if I'm dreaming.）

I gazed up at him, almost dazed by the happiness I was feeling.
He gazed back at me, and then he smiled suddenly.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo smiled suddenly as he gazed down at my upturned face.
Leo：You're not dreaming, you know. And I know this isn't a real wedding, but—
Leo：One day, I will bring you here again. For real.
Jily：Oh, Leo...

（You're right, this isn't a dream.
（You and I will make this real someday, I know it.）

My smile broadened as I imagined what our actual wedding might be like.
Leo reached out and gently caught hold of my chin, lifting my face toward him.
Leo：Is this where they say 'You may now kiss the bride'?
Jily：I think so.
I laughed a little as I nodded up at him, feeling suddenly a little breathless in anticipation.
Leo leaned toward me and gently pressed his lips against mine.
It was a fleeting kiss, yet it promised so much, and I sighed softly as our lips parted.
Leo：I guess that's it. Shall we go back?
And so, having shared our promises for the future, we left the church behind us.

＊＊＊

At last we made it back to the palace, and we each returned to our own rooms.
The lamplight flickered, casting shadows on the wall as I changed out of my dress and into my nightgown.

（I know it wasn't a real wedding, but I still felt so happy being there with Leo.）

As I recalled those sweet moments in the church, I found myself pausing as I did up the buttons on my nightgown.

（But then we parted ways as soon as we got back to the palace.
（Now I feel a bit lonely somehow.）

Just then, I heard a soft knock at the door.

（Who could it be at this hour?）

I turned around to find that the door had already been pushed open.
Leo stood in the doorway, holding something in his hand.
Jily：Leo, is that—

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Jily：Leo, is that—
I paused in confusion as I gazed at Leo where he stood in the doorway.
He held out a bottle of champagne and two glasses.
Leo：Did I surprise you?
Leo stepped into the room, closing the door behind him, and walked toward the table.
Leo：This was a leftover from the reception for your maid.
I joined him at the table as he put the glasses down, and he carefully removed the cork from the bottle.
As he poured the bubbling champagne into the glasses, I thought about the wedding of my maid.

〝（I'd always wanted to do that, too.）〞

I stared at the glasses dreamily, remembering how happy she'd looked, and then I realized Leo was staring at me.
Leo：Jily?
I raised my head with a start, and then laughed a little shyly at myself.
Leo watched me for a moment, and then he smirked suddenly as well.
Leo：You had that exact expression on your face at your maid's reception, you know.
Leo：Don't tell me you've been longing for a champagne tower, all this time?
Jily：Don't be silly.
I felt embarrassed to realize that my feelings had been so obvious, and I pouted at him.

（You're right, though—I've always wanted to have the chance to do that with you.）

Suddenly Leo slipped an arm around my waist, pulling me toward him.
Jily：Leo?
I looked up at him in surprise, and he grinned at me, his eyes mischievous.
Leo：Let's do it like this.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo：Let's do it like this.
Leo handed me a glass of champagne, and then picked up the other in his free hand.
He slipped his arm gently through mine, so that our arms twined together.
We each sipped from our champagne glasses at the same time, our arms linked through each other's.
I laughed softly as I lowered my glass, the bubbly feel of the champagne still fresh on my lips.
Suddenly Leo leaned forward and kissed me gently.
I could faintly taste the champagne in his mouth, and I knew I must taste the same—bubbly and sparkling.
Our mouths moved together in a long, somehow vibrant kiss, and I sighed softly as we parted again.
Leo put down his glass, and then took mine away from me as well.
He pulled me into a tighter embrace, a soft smile on his lips.
Leo：By the way, do you know the real reason I'm here?
Jily：Well—

（It did seem weird for us to part ways when we got back and then for you to come straight back here.
（But I guess I was so glad to see you again that I didn't question it.）

I shook my head and shrugged, and he moved his mouth close to my ear to whisper softly.
Leo：Because it's our wedding night.
Jily：Leo!
I giggled at his unexpected words, but before I could say anything more, he lifted me in his arms and carried me to the bed.
Leo：All this time I've been thinking about how I want to have you all to myself.
Leo：I think it's time to finally make that happen.

（Oh, Leo—）

Leo set me down gently on the sheets, and placed a soft kiss against my lips.

（You made that promise to me when we were at the church, but—
（I want to make a promise to you, too.
（One day I'll give myself to you completely, and we'll belong to each other for always.）

I made the vow silently to myself as I reached up and slid my arms around Leo's neck.
I pulled him down onto the bed with me as his lips sought mine in another warm kiss.

fin.

Select the Premium Ending>>>

Leo, Chapter 4-Premium Ending：

Leo：I'm here to kidnap you.

（Are you kidding me?!）

My pulse sped up at Leo's words and the unexpected seriousness of his tone.

（You can't really mean to just run off with me, right now?）

Leo slowly released his grip on me, his hands falling away from my waist.
Leo：You can turn around now.
I hesitated for a moment, feeling wary, and then turned to look at him.
He stood directly behind me, a hint of mischief lurking in his gaze.
He wore a stylish, elegant outfit, much more formal than anything he ever usually wore.
The sun shining through the window formed a halo around Leo, his silvery hair seeming to glow.

（Leo, you look amazing!）

I forgot to breathe for a moment, just taking in the sight of him, and he gave me a bright smile.
Leo：I told you to wait for me, didn't I?

（Oh!）

I remembered again what he'd said to me the other day, and I stared up at him in disbelief.
Jily：You mean—you're going to be my partner after all?
Leo reached out to caress my cheek gently as he began to explain.
He told me that Louis had visited his room late the night before.
Leo：And he said, 'You know the people of Wysteria would want to see the princess looking happy'.
Jily：Wait, does that mean—

（Does Louis know how Leo and I feel about each other?）

I bit my lip as I gazed up at him, and he shrugged his shoulders a little as he spoke.
Leo：At any rate, it seems like Louis wants what's best for us.
Leo：But he's right, isn't he? I'm the only one who can make you happy.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

I nodded at once in response to Leo's words, and he leaned forward to place a soft kiss on my forehead.
Then he knelt down on one knee before me, and offered me his hand.
Leo：Would you like to accompany me, Princess?

（Oh, Leo—I never dreamed this would happen.）

I smiled broadly down at him, captivated by the look in his eyes.
Jily：Of course.
I placed my hand in his, and he squeezed my fingers, standing up to lead me out of the room.
Leo and I climbed into the decorated carriage and joined the parade that went through town.
Around us I could hear the loud cheers of the townspeople as they waved to Leo and I.
There were people throwing showers of petals everywhere, and the whole town seemed to be covered in them.

（It's so beautiful! I never imagined it could look so different.）

I glanced up at Leo with a smile, and he reached out and took hold of my hand.
His fingers twined tightly with mine, and he squeezed my hand gently as he glanced at me.
His hand was warm and reassuring, and I felt as if his warmth was spreading through me.

（You're right, Leo—you're the one who makes me this happy.
（And I'm sure you'll always be the only one.）

I smiled up at him again, and then turned to wave happily to the people in the crowd.
Enveloped in flower petals and cheers, I felt as though my heart was overflowing with happiness.

＊＊＊

Later, after the parade was over—
Leo told me to close my eyes, and he led me through the corridors of the palace.

（I wonder where he's taking me?）

After some time Leo finally stopped walking, and bade me stop as well.
Leo：Okay, you can open your eyes.
I hesitantly opened my eyes, blinking at the light, and saw—

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

I opened my eyes to find a large group of people gathered before me.

（Why, it's all the people who helped organize the wedding parade!
（And Giles as well, and Louis, and—）

I gazed around the room in delight, and then I realized that there was a champagne tower in the middle of the room.
I turned to look up at Leo in surprise, and he grinned down at me.
Leo：I had Giles prepare it for me.
Leo：You looked so envious that day, you know.
Jily：Are you telling me—
I remembered clearly how I felt at my maid's reception, watching her and her groom at the champagne tower.

（You knew all along that I was wishing we could do the same?）

Giles walked toward the two of us, carrying a bottle of champagne in his hands.
Giles：This is simply a celebration of the success of the wedding parade.
Giles：If you would, Princess.
Jily：Thank you, Giles.
I took the champagne from Giles, and as I did so I saw Louis standing behind him.

（It's all thanks to Louis that I was able to have Leo at my side during the parade.）

Jily：And thank you, Louis.
To my surprise, Louis blushed at my heartfelt words.
Louis：It was nothing.
He turned his gaze away from me and looked at Leo.
Louis：Are you going to pour the champagne together?
At Louis's words, the surrounding bureaucrats began to speak up as well.
Bureaucrat 1：Yes, the wedding parade would never have been a success without your help, Leo!
Bureaucrat 2：The two of you should certainly pour the champagne together!
I looked around the room at all the happy, bright faces, and then turned my gaze to Leo.

（I couldn't ask this of him when I was told to choose a partner, but—）

Jily：Leo, would you do me the honor?

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

I met Leo's gaze steadily as I asked him to help me pour the champagne.

（I know we're just celebrating the success of the parade, but—
（I want to pour champagne over the tower with you, just like my maid did at her wedding reception.）

Leo gave me a meaningful smile, almost as if he could see exactly what I was thinking.
Leo：Gladly.
He took my hand, and we stepped forward to the beautifully stacked glasses.
Together we lifted the champagne bottle, and slowly tipped the champagne over the tower.

（Standing here with Leo like this, pouring champagne with everyone around us—）

I glanced up at Leo again, and I could see his smile was just as bright as mine.

（It's almost like a dream come true.）

There was a sudden round of applause from the people around us, and Leo and I looked at each other and grinned.

＊＊＊

The next morning, a gentle breeze swayed the curtains in the window.
I opened my eyes slowly, and blinked as I sat up in bed.
The sheet slid down as I moved, baring my skin to the cool breeze.

（Hang on—where's my nightgown?）

I realized I was completely naked, and I turned to look around me.

（Wait, why are you—）

I was a little startled to realize who was in my bed with me.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo slept soundly beside me, his breathing slow and even.
As I stared down at him in confusion, he slowly opened his eyes and blinked up at me sleepily.
Leo：What's wrong?
Jily：Well, I—
Leo sat up slowly and gazed at me as I searched for the right words.
Jily：Why are you here? I'm not sure—
My words trailed off into nothing as Leo widened his eyes in surprise.
Leo：Don't you remember?
Jily：Remember what?
I searched frantically through my memory at his words.

（I remember pouring the champagne over the tower, and then we all drank it together.）

I stared down at my hands resting on the sheets, frowning as I tried to piece my thoughts together.

（And then Leo brought me back to my room, and—）

I could remember only bits and pieces, but the memories were vividly laced through with happiness and desire.
Leo：I have to say I enjoyed it.
Jily：Enjoyed what?
Leo：You being so passionate.
Jily：Leo!
His voice was both teasing and husky, and I suddenly wondered just how passionate I might have been.
A moment later he pulled me toward him, his lips pressing against mine in a kiss.
I could feel a lingering trace of desire still burning through me, and I closed my eyes, responding to his kiss.
Our mouths moved together, our tongues battling for dominance.
His hand slid down, his fingers trailing along my bare thigh, and I moaned softly.
My body arched instinctively toward him, my arms wrapping around his neck.
His fingers paused on my upper thigh, and he pulled back from the kiss.
Leo：I told you this last night as well, but—
Leo：I'll never leave your side. Not ever.
Jily：Oh, Leo—
I gazed up at him, feeling captivated by the look in his eyes, and I leaned forward to kiss him again.
Jily：I'll never leave you either.

（I want us to be together for the rest of our lives.）

fin.

Select the Secret Ending>>>

Leo, Chapter 4-Secret Ending：

Leo embraced Jily from behind, holding her tightly against him as he spoke.
Leo：I'm here to kidnap you.

（I have to admit, I'm surprised myself.
（I never imagined it would turn out this way.）

He looked down at the back of her head, watching as her hair swayed with her movement.
Just then, the memory of Louis fixing her hairclip flickered in the back of his mind.

（Dammit, now's not the time.）

He pushed the thought away, and gently released her from his embrace.
Leo：You can turn around now.
He watched as she turned slowly around to face him, her expression wary.
But a moment later, her eyes widened as she saw what he was wearing.
Jily：You mean—you're going to be my partner after all?
Her smile and the sudden happiness in her eyes lit up her face so much that she seemed to glow.

（And there I go again.）

His feelings for her welled up inside, almost too strong to bear.
He reached out to caress her cheek, and realized he was smiling too.

（When you look at me like that,
（I never want to let you go, not even for a second.）

His smile broadened as he explained what Louis had done for them.
Leo：But he's right, isn't he? I'm the only one who can make you happy.

（No matter what I tell myself, the truth is I don't ever want to lose you.
（And every time I touch you, I want to hold you in my arms forever.）

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

（And every time I touch you, I want to hold you in my arms forever.）

He lowered his hand from her cheek, smiling a little as he gazed at her.

（So please, stay with me, Jily. Stay by my side always.）

He leaned close and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead.
Then he took her hand and led her out to join the parade.

＊＊＊

The rode in a decorated carriage, and once they reached the town, they were surrounded by cheers from the townspeople.
Jily stared around at the town in wonder, and then looked up at Leo happily.

（I love seeing you smile like that.）

There was such sweet joy in her expression as her eyes met his.
Leo's heart began to pound, and he felt warm and sure in a way he'd never felt before.

（I know I said that I'm the only one who can make you happy.
（But I think the truth is that you're the one who makes me happy.）

He smiled and reached out to take hold of her hand.
He twined his fingers with hers, squeezing her hand and feeling reassured by her warmth.

（And I will do anything for you.）

Jily glanced down at their linked hands, and then smiled joyfully up at him again.

（If it means I can see you looking this happy, I will do anything at all.）

＊＊＊

Later that evening, after the parade was over—

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

The parade was over, and the stars twinkled brightly in the dark night sky.
Leo carried Jily in his arms back to her chamber, and lay her down gently on the bed.

（I'm really glad the champagne tower made her so happy.
（But I never expected her to get this drunk!）

Leo hadn't forgotten the look on Jily's face when she gazed at the champagne tower at her maid's wedding reception.
So he asked Giles to prepare a champagne tower to celebrate the success of the parade.

（But after we finished pouring the champagne, she just kept drinking every time someone filled her glass again.）

He gazed down at her gentle expression as she lay there, sound asleep, and found himself smiling.

（Well, that's a part of her kindness, and it's a part of her I adore, but—）

As he watched her sleep, Jily frowned a little, and rolled over.
Jily：Nnnnn—
As she did so, the fabric of her dress slid down from her shoulder, leaving it bare.
Leo stared down at her bared skin, feeling his pulse speeding up.

（Ahh, letting me see you like this—you're almost too innocent sometimes.）

Leo sighed softly as he reached out to slide her dress back into place.
But as he did so, Jily's hand caught hold of his, clinging tightly to him, even though she was still asleep.
He gazed down at her expression, so innocent as she slept.

（Maybe I should wake her up.）

He leaned on the bed, moving his face closer to Jily's.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Leo：Jily?
Leo leaned closer, whispering in Jily's ear. She opened her eyes sleepily, staring up at him with a dazed expression.
Jily：Leo?

（Don't tell me you're still drunk?）

He smirked down at her, and spoke in a gentle voice.
Leo：What's the matter?
Jily：I—
Jily blinked slowly up at him, and the hazy look in her eyes cleared a little.
She gave him a small smile and whispered something, too quiet for him to hear.
Leo：What?
He leaned toward her, and she squeezed his hand as she spoke in a husky voice.
Jily：I want you to stay with me forever.
He could smell the faint, sweet smell of champagne as she spoke.
Her hand was warm in his, almost too warm, and there was soft desire in her eyes.
He swallowed hard, and for a moment all he could hear was his pulse roaring in his ears.

（I know she's drunk, but I think she really means it. ）

Leo：Forever?
She smiled up at him as he leaned over her, his lips pressing hard against hers.

（I have no intention of going anywhere.
（Although I'm not sure if that's good for you or not...）

Their mouths moved together, his tongue sliding into her mouth and twining with hers.
She reached up and slid her arms around his neck, pulling herself toward him.
He pressed down against her, feeling her warmth through the thin fabric of her dress.
Her mouth was hungry against his, just as passionate as he was, and he closed his eyes for a moment.

（Don't you want to hear my answer?）

Leo pulled back just a little, his eyes narrowing slightly.
Leo：Don't you want to hear me say it?
To his surprise, she smirked up at him, her expression relaxed and happy.

＝＝＝＝＝＝＝

Jily smirked up at him, her expression relaxed and happy as she spoke softly.
Jily：So long as you're here with me, that's enough for me.
He stared down at her in silence for a moment, not sure what to say.
（Are you trying to tell me that you're happy just to be with me?）
He smiled suddenly, feeling happiness spread through him.
He leaned down and began to trail kisses down her neck.
He pulled the fabric of her dress down out of the way as his lips moved toward her breasts.

＊＊＊

The next morning—
Leo woke up with a start, feeling movement in the bed beside him.
He opened his eyes sleepily and looked up, squinting in the morning light.
He saw Jily sitting next to him, bare to the waist, gazing down at him with wide eyes.
Leo：What's wrong?
There was confusion and unsurety on her face as she spoke.
Jily：Why are you here? I'm not sure—

（Don't tell me you were that drunk.）

Leo：Don't you remember?
He watched as her gaze dropped to the sheets, her expression clouding as she searched her memory.

（I suppose I shouldn't be surprised that you don't remember.
（But if that's true...）

Leo：I have to say I enjoyed it.
Leo：You being so passionate.
He spoke in a teasing tone, and he watched as her eyes widened, her expression suddenly even more unsure.

（But otherwise, I never could have said it.）

There was something so sweet about her fragility in that moment, and he pulled her toward him for a kiss.
She was still with surprise for a moment, but then she responded eagerly to his kiss.
His fingers slowly slid up her bare thigh, tracing softly along her skin until he reached her most sensitive spot.
Jily：Ahh—Leo—
Her voice was soft and breathy as their lips parted, and he smirked down at her.
Leo：I'll never leave your side. Not ever.
He kissed her again, her mouth warm and sensual against his, and he closed his eyes with a smile.

（Every time I touch you, I want to hold you in my arms forever.
（That's how much I love you, Jily.）

fin.