𓊝

I welcomed another morning without having slept a wink.

As sunlight streamed through the window, I turned over and buried my face away from it.

(I wish it'd been cloudy today...)

Wrapping myself tightly in the sheets like a caterpillar, I squeezed my eyes shut.

Nica's words from yesterday still echoed relentlessly in my mind.

--(flashback)--

Nica: You'll be going back to your old life the day after tomorrow anyway, won't you?

Nica: So forget about me... and hurry back to your normal life.

--(flashback ends)--

Kate: There's no way I could ever forget you...

Ever since we'd met, he'd kept me spinning in the palm of his hand like a ballerina.

He toyed with people's hearts, teased them until they fell for him... and the moment they thought he'd finally drawn close, he'd push them away again.

How could I possibly forget him now and return to my ordinary life?

(I know I meddled where I shouldn't have. Maybe he thought I was nothing but a nuisance, but...!)

Kate: Then why... why did you kiss me...?

The more I thought about it, the angrier I became, pressing my face hard into the cushion.

(That's so unfair... so unbelievably unfair.)

Because a kiss like that.. felt like he was begging me not to forget him.

Kate: Haaah...

A long sigh escaped me as I wriggled beneath the sheets.

I didn't have much time left.

And yet...

I couldn't picture myself giving up my role as the fairytale keeper, leaving this place, and abandoning Nica.

(Because if I quit... I'll never see him again.)

Even if I threw myself back into my job at the post office, the chances of moving alone to Germany was practically nonexistent.

Even if Nica continued staying in England, the odds of us ever meeting again were as good as zero.

Because we belonged to different worlds.

(If I give up now... we'll never see each other again.)

At this point, I didn't even care whether my own feelings were ever returned.

If only Nica's feelings could reach Ring...

(But there's nothing I can say...)

Unless Ring realized the truth himself, Nica's feelings would never reach him.

Kate: Aaaah...

I rubbed my face deeper into the cushion once again.

Just then—

Ring: You look like a caterpillar.

Kate: Wha-?!

Startled by the sudden voice, I shot upright.

Standing beside my bed, looking down at me, was Ring.

Kate: W-Why are you in my room...?

Ring: The door was unlocked, so I thought something might've happened. Sorry for coming in without permission.

Ring: I even knocked a few times. Didn't you hear me?

(Not at all...)

I must have been so shaken yesterday that I'd forgotten to lock the door.

Keeping a respectful distance, Ring looked at me with an apologetic yet worried expression.

Ring: Um... are you okay?

Kate: ...Huh?

Ring: You don't look well. Could it be you haven't slept at all?

Unable to find the words, I gave a small nod.

Ring glanced around the room before looking back at me, a faint look of disappointment crossing his face.

Ring: I'm sorry for disturbing you so early. You should get some rest.

Kate: Why did you come to my room?

Slipping out from beneath the sheets, I sat up on the bed to face him.

He let out a troubled sigh.

Ring: I was looking for Nica. I went to his room, but he wasn't there.

Ring: So I assumed he'd be here with you. Seems I was mistaken.

His words made me tilt my head in confusion.

Kate: Why would Nica be in my room?

But Ring looked just as puzzled.

Ring: Since we came to England, whenever Nica disappeared, he'd usually say he was going to see you.

Ring: He said it often enough that I even told him he was going to see you a little too frequently.

(...So he really was using my name whenever it suited him, wasn't he?)

The thought irritated me, but another question surfaced.

(Come to think of it... it's unusual for Nica to be gone this early in the morning.)

Kate: Maybe he went out yesterday and stayed somewhere overnight?

It seemed like the most likely possibility, but Ring shook his head.

Ring: I saw him last night, so I don't think that's it.

(Then that's not it...)

Rin: Besides, on a bright morning like this, I can't imagine Nica willingly going outside.

Kate: I was thinking the same thing.

Nica hated mornings. He hated bright sunlight even more.

He was the type to only start moving around in the afternoon, so neither of us could believe he'd gone out this early.

We both stood there, heads tilted in thought, but no answer came.

Straightening up again, Ring gave me a small nod.

Ring: Sorry for bothering you so early. I'll keep looking a little longer.

He turned to leave the room. But I hurried to my feet and called after him.

Kate: I'll help you look for him too!

I couldn't bear the thought of saying goodbye like this.

So, together with Ring, I set out to look for Nica.

Ring: Thanks for coming with me. On my own, I probably would've gotten lost in this palace.

Kate: It's so huge and full of twists and turns. I still take the wrong corridor sometimes.

Rin: I see... so I'm not the only one.

Perhaps relieved to discover he wasn't the only one with no sense of direction, Ring's expression brightened.

Kate: By the way, what did you need Nica for?

Rin: There was something I wanted to ask him about work.

Rin: He's our strategist—he seems to know everything. Whenever there's something I'm unsure about, I always ask him.

(I see...)

As we walked through the palace gardens, we arrived at the fountain that fell apart yesterday.

The damaged parts had been patched up for the time being, and it looked as though it was working normally again.

Even so, I instinctively tensed.

Noticing, Ring tilted his head.

Ring: Why are you so wary of it?

Kate: I had a run-in with this fountain yesterday..

Rin: ...Actually, I slipped once and ended up getting completely drenched by this very fountain.

Kate: That happened to you too!?

United by our shared misfortune, we couldn't help laughing together as we continued searching for Nica.

Then my gaze drifted downward.

A patch of clovers grew at my feet, and I stopped without thinking.

Ring: Did you find something...? Ah, clovers.

Crouching beside them, Ring gently brushed the leaves with his fingertips.

Kate: ...Seeing them reminded me of the four-leaf clover Nica gave me the other day.

Ring: He used to give them to me all the time too.

A gentle smile crossed Ring's face as his gaze wandered into the distance.

Ring: ...When we were children, we weren't allowed to go outside.

Ring: But from the very first day we finally could, Nica always held my hand and led the way, even though neither of us knew anything about the outside world.

Ring: I didn't realize it back then... but I'm sure Nica was scared too.

Ring: Even though he didn't know the world any better than I did, he pretended everything was fine... and kept leading me forward.

I crouched beside Ring and looked down at the clovers.

There wasn't a single four-leaf one in sight.

Ring: As long as Nica was with me, I was happy. But he was always the one who brought luck into my life.

Ring: Whenever I got upset because I couldn't find a four-leaf clover, Nica would spot one almost instantly.

Ring: 'Leave it to your big brother.' ...I don't even know how many times I heard him say that.

Those words stirred a memory.

---Nica: Dari's orders. Your big brother will take things from here.

(That's right... He said something just like that back then, too.)

Ring: I've never been a lucky person... but thanks to Nica, I feel like I've been blessed with more luck than I deserve.

They had been together since the day they were born.

Nica had always been the dependable older twin.

But after learning about the curse... he had changed.

Ring: I'm glad I was born as Nica's little brother. If I hadn't been... I don't think I'd still be here today.

Ring smiled at me.

The sight made my chest tighten.

All the luck Nica had given his brother was probably luck he had stolen from Ring in the first place.

(Nica knows that too. That's why he always gave Ring four-leaf clovers — the symbol of good fortune.)

Understanding his intentions, even just a little, left me speechless.

Ring rose to his feet, wearing a faint, bittersweet smile.

Ring: For all his faults... when it comes to the things that matter most, my brother is always the one who lets go.

That smile... looked exactly like the one Nica sometimes wore.

Ring: I've never understood what my brother has been carrying all this time.

Ring: But the way he only ever seems to let his guard down around you... I'm sure that's no coincidence.

I stood as well, facing him. His expression softened.

Ring: To Nica... you're someone truly special.

At those words, I felt a sting of heat behind my eyes.

After searching every corner of the palace without finding Nica — and with no one having seen him— we were completely out of options.

In the end, we decided to ask Darius if he knew where Nica had gone.

But the answer we received was the last thing I expected.

Darius: Nica? He left first thing this morning. Said he was taking today's ship back to Germany.

Kate: ...What?

For a moment, I couldn't even process what I'd just heard.

Darius remained completely unfazed as he continued speaking.

Ring: He never told me!

Ring's voice trembled with shock.

As for me...my mind had gone completely blank.

Darius: About those failed Haus experiments that attacked us the other day... we've figured out who's pulling the strings behind it all.

Darius: Seems that person's somewhere on the continent right now. Nica insisted on returning to Germany so he could track them down.

Darius: He also said he has no intention of coming back to England. Told he’s leaving the rest to us.

Their conversation continued around me, but it barely reached my ears.

Ring: Why didn't he tell me...?

Darius: Probably because it'd be easier to act alone.

Darius: Besides, you have work to do here helping me. I'm sure you would've wanted to go with him, but that was never going to happen.

Yesterday's kiss.

His farewell.

Only now did I understand why he'd pushed me away.

(Does that mean... we'll never see each other again...?)

Darius glanced at my devastated expression, then continued as though discussing the weather.

Darius: Well, you can always see him again once you return to Germany, Ring.

He smiled and held out a stack of papers.

Darius: Here.

Darius: With Nica gone, you will have to cover his work. This is no time to stand around in shock.

Darius: Off you go.

Before Ring could protest, Darius practically shoved him out of the room.

Then he turned to me, looking thoroughly uninterested.

Darius: And you? How much longer are you planning to stay here? Nica's already gone.

I hadn't even been able to say goodbye.

I hadn't even seen his face one last time.

He has crossed the sea and disappeared from my life forever.

My mind was blank as I stood there in silence.

Watching me, Darius let out an exasperated sigh before dropping onto the sofa.

Darius: His ship doesn't leave until this evening.

Kate: ..What?

Slowly, I lifted my head.

Without the slightest hint of interest, Darius pulled off one of his gloves and casually inspected his fingernails.

Darius: He said he was going to spend the day wandering around London. If you leave now... you might still make it.

Kate: I'm going right now!

Darius: You didn't need to announce it to me, but... have a safe trip.

Darius: If you end up becoming something that can bind Nica... be sure to tell me.

Kate: Thank you... thank you for telling me!

I spun on my heel and bolted from the room.

Just before I disappeared through the door, I noticed Darius giving a lazy wave without even looking in my direction.

What I failed to understand however, was the inscrutable smile curling across his lips.

…………………

Maybe I won't make it in time. Maybe he's already gone.

Even so, I couldn't accept it ending like this. I couldn't bear it.

The moment the carriage reached the harbor, I leapt out and rushed to the first sailor I saw.

Kate: Is there a ship bound for Germany?

Sailor: The one over there! It's about to depart!

The sailor pointed toward the largest vessel, and I broke into a run.

It looked ready to set sail at any moment.

I refuse to let this be goodbye.

The gangway was already being chained off, and the ropes coiled around the bollards were being untied.

I stopped halfway down the pier and shouted at the top of my lungs.

Kate: Nica!!

Nica: ...Kate?

At the familiar voice behind me, I spun around.

There he stood, suitcase in one hand, blinking at me in stunned disbelief.

Nica: ...What are you doing here?

I found him.

The instant our eyes met, my chest tightened so painfully I thought my heart would break. Tears threatened to spill as I ran straight to him.

Kate: No, what are you doing!? Why were you going to leave without saying a word!?

I planted myself firmly in front of him.

Kate: Did you hate me that much?

He looked away with an awkward expression.

Nica: ...Yeah. You were annoying.

The smile he forced onto his face made me fold my arms.

Kate: You're far too easy to read when you're lying.

Nica: ...How do you always know?

Kate: Don't underestimate me. I didn't spend the last three weeks with you for nothing.

His brows furrowed, his expression growing even more uncomfortable.

Kate: ...Is it because I've started attracting bad luck?

His fingers twitched ever so slightly.

Kate: Because you thought if you sent me back to my old life and never saw me again... I wouldn't get dragged into this?

Nica: Robin...

Kate: Don't you dare!

His eyes widened in shock.

Kate: Sure, rotten fruit falling on my head and getting drenched by fountain water were upsetting.

Kate: But...life without you beside me hurts so much more.

None of the misfortune had truly bothered me because Nica had always been there.

He worried about me, he laughed with me.

He always reached out to help me.

But if he wasn't by my side...then no amount of good fortune would ever matter.

Because...

Kate: The greatest stroke of luck in my life... was meeting you.

Nica: !

Tears streamed down both my cheeks, falling one after another onto the ground.

Kate: I don't want this to be goodbye... I don't care if I'm just your toy...

Kate: So please.. don't take away my luck... don't take you away from me.

The ship's horn echoed across the harbor, signalling the vessel bound for Germany to depart.

Amid the bustle of the docks, Nica murmured quietly.

Nica: ..Do you have any idea what it took for me to let you go?

Kate: Huh?

The instant I looked up—

Kate: ..Mm.

A fleeting kiss brushed against my lips before he slowly pulled away.

Nica: You really are... such an idiot.

As he gently wiped away my tears, he smiled with a helpless little laugh.

His eyes, softened with unmistakable affection, were fixed only on me.

Seeing such a gentle expression on his face for the very first time, I understood instinctively.

This… this was Nica's real smile.

Nica: But I'm the bigger idiot.

His suitcase slipped from his hand and hit the ground with a dull thud.

The next moment, his arms wrapped around me so tightly I thought I'd never be able to breathe.

Nica: Because... I'm choosing not to go home.

[Chapter 19 Prem Story] [Masterlist]

Nica hurried over to me and slipped off his jacket, draping it over my shoulders.

Kate: But it'll get soaked...

Nica: It's fine. Just wear it, you'll catch a cold.

The jacket was still warm from his body, carrying his familiar scent. Wrapped in it, I couldn't help but feel as though I was being held in his embrace.

(He really is kind...)

No matter how much he deceived people or toyed with them, at his core, Nica was a genuinely kind man.

Leaving me to stand here, drenched, wasn't in his nature. Neither was turning a blind eye when he could offer me his jacket.

(...Though maybe he's done this for everyone else, too.)

Still, no one could dislike being shown kindness.

(More importantly... I need to give this to him.)

Before I told him what I'd overheard the councilmen saying, I handed Nica the report I'd thankfully managed to keep from getting soaked.

Nica: What's this...?

The moment he looked at it, his eyes widened in surprise.

Kate: I found it while I was going through all those documents yesterday.

Kate: Unfortunately, I couldn't find the information you were actually looking for.

Nica: But you did uncover information about the previous White Swan and Black Swan."

As he flipped through the pages, his gaze scanning each one, Nica finally spoke.

Nica: I'd been told the previous White Swan and Black Swan were twins too... but I never knew what became of them.

Kate: Really?

Nica: Yeah. I only knew the bare minimum.

Knowing I'd been able to tell him something even he didn't know filled me with quiet satisfaction. Maybe, just maybe, I'd managed to help him a little.

Nica: But... are you sure it's okay to hand something like this over to me?

Kate: I got permission first. Besides, I told you I'd do things my own way, didn't I?

Nica: Why, thank you very much.

But then, Nica turned an icy gaze on me.

Nica: You know... when your meddling goes this far, it starts to piss me off.

Kate: Huh?

Nica: It's not like I ever asked you to dig this up for me. And honestly? Having something with an ending this awful shoved in my face just leaves a bad taste in my mouth.

His eyes were as cold as ice as they looked down at me.

It wasn't the first time I'd seen that expression on his face…

But somehow, this was the coldest he'd ever looked. And I knew it wasn't just my imagination.

Nica: Danke... for telling me something I never even wanted to know.

Nica turned on his heel and strode back toward the palace.

Kate: W-Wait!

I hurried after him, but he showed no sign of slowing down.

Nica: What? Still need something?

Kate: Yes. The councilmen were talking about the recent rise in crime among German immigrants, and—

Nica: There are rumors that we're the ones pulling the strings behind it, right? I already know.

By the time he reached his room, he had already taken hold of the doorknob, ready to let himself inside.

Kate: N-Nica—

But in the very next instant—

Nica: ...You just won’t stop talking.

Kate: Mm...!

The moment he turned around, his lips stole mine.

I froze where I stood.

Kate: Wh... mm...

His hand cupped the back of my head, holding me in place as his lips sealed over mine without leaving the slightest gap between us.

Confused, I instinctively parted my lips and a warm tongue slipped inside.

His tongue seemed to have a mind of its own, leisurely exploring every corner of my mouth before gliding across the roof of it and curling around my tongue.

Kate: Mmh... ah...

(I... I have to resist...)

The slow, lingering sweetness of the kiss swept away every coherent thought in an instant.

My body had already gone weak from the kiss alone, and my legs trembled as I struggled to stay upright.

All I could do was surrender to the unending wave of pleasure.

As his tongue coaxed mine forward, the tip of it slipped out, resting against my lower lip.

Kate: ...!

As if he'd been waiting for exactly that moment, Nica's eyes gleamed.

Then, with deliberate gentleness, he caught the tip of my tongue between his teeth and gave it a teasing bite.

Before I could even process what had happened, a sharp jolt of sensation shot from the tip of my tongue through my entire body, making my vision flicker.

Overwhelmed by a feeling I'd never experienced before, I instinctively grabbed at his shirt.

In the next instant, I found myself pinned against the wall.

Nica: What a naughty face.

Kate: Mm... ah...

His tongue brushed against my neck, sending a shiver through me, and before I could catch my breath, he lifted my chin to claim my lips once more.

Even as a faint sheen of moisture escaped my lips, and I weakly pushed against his chest for air...

The endless kiss set every inch of me alight. Before I knew it, a longing I couldn't suppress unfurled deep within me, my body helplessly beginning to welcome him.

But then, without warning, he pulled back.

A glistening thread stretching between us before it finally broke.

His eyes, dark with desire, searched mine, wavering like the surface of still water.

Then, with an expression that looked almost pained, he tore his gaze away.

Nica: Today's the last day you'll be my toy.

Kate: ...What?

Nica stepped back, putting distance between us.

One hand resting on the doorknob, he turned to me with a bright, effortless smile.

Nica: I've gotten bored of using you as my plaything.

Nica: Don't come see me anymore starting tomorrow. And I won't come looking for you, either.

Nica: And don't worry. As long as you don't tell Ring about my curse, I won't tell Crown about what you did either.

Kate: Why are you suddenly saying something like that...?

Walking away from Nica's game was supposed to be what I'd wanted.

And yet….

(But why... why now...?)

Nica: You'll be going back to your old life the day after tomorrow anyway, won't you?

Nica: So forget about me... and hurry back to your normal life.

(...Why does it sound like he's saying goodbye?)

Avoiding my gaze, Nica stepped into his room.

The door slammed shut with a loud bang, followed immediately by the click of the lock.

Only then did I snap back to my senses.

I rushed to the door and pounded on it.

Kate: Nica!

No matter how many times I knocked, no answer came from the other side.

Slowly, my fist fell to my side, and I rested my forehead against the closed door.

I knew I'd crossed a line.

I understood that my meddling had upset him.

Kate: ...I'm sorry for making you feel that way.

But the warmth of his kiss still lingered on my lips.

Kate: ‘Forget about me... and hurry back to your normal life’...

A hot tear slipped from the corner of my eye.

Kate: How am I supposed to forget you after everything?

Leaning my weight against the door, I slowly slid down until I was sitting on the floor.

An indescribable sadness crashed over me, as if countless blades had pierced my heart all at once.

No matter how many tears fell...no matter how many times I knocked weakly on the door...it never opened.

And Nica never came out.

He had looked at me with eyes clouded by longing, stolen my lips, then looked away as though it pained him to say goodbye.

My feelings for him weren't so shallow that I could forget him that easily.

(If anything... I'll carry this kiss with me for the rest of my life.)

As the cruelest farewell kiss imaginable.

Slowly, I rose to my feet. Carefully folding the jacket he'd draped over my shoulders, I placed it in front of his door.

Kate: ...You're so unfair.

Unable even to wipe away my tears, I turned and walked away, my vision blurred and wavering through the veil of tears.

(transitioning to Vogel office)

Humming to himself as he worked on a milk puzzle, Darius looked up when he sensed someone at the door.

Nica: I need to talk to you.

Darius: What is it? Don't tell me you finally decided you want the girl after all?

Nica: No, thanks. And that's not what this is about.

Standing in the doorway, Nica spoke without a trace of expression.

Nica: Dari... I'm going back to Germany tomorrow.

Even after holing up in the basement from morning until night, I couldn't find the kind of information Nica was looking for.

The only information related to him was the record concerning the previous white swan and black swan curses.

The two individuals who bore the white swan and black swan curses were twins, just like Nica and his brother.

The black swan met a fateful end at a young age, while the white swan reportedly lived a long life before passing away from old age.

It seems the black swan's death was triggered by a quarrel with their lover. However, records indicate that the black swan had harbored a deep resentment toward the white swan.

They would frequently tell their lover that the white swan was the source of their misfortunes — a grievance they simply could not forgive.

(Ring cares deeply for Nica, so I guess it’ll be okay….)

Still, the thought of how he might react if he learned that the misfortunes befalling them were caused by Nica’s curse is too painful to even imagine.

(I’m sure they’ll both be fine.)

I was trying to convince myself they wouldn’t meet the same fate as the twins of the past.

But ultimately, there’s no record of a cursed person dragging another into their own fate.

Despite not all records having been preserved, Nica was trying to do something unprecedented.

In other words, we have no way of knowing right now whether it will actually work out.

Kate: To think all I can do is hope...

(What was the point of shutting myself up in the basement and poring over those records?)

Dejected, I slumped onto my desk and accidentally pressed a typewriter key with my forehead. Quickly, I looked up.

Checking a hand mirror, I saw a round mark left on my forehead.

(...If I keep moping like this, my forehead is going to end up covered in key marks.)

Giving my cheeks a sharp slap, I spoke aloud to snap myself out of it.

Kate: For now, let's just be grateful for what I've managed to learn.

Even though I didn't get the specific information I wanted, I did manage to learn about the curse of black swan and white swan from the past.

(Perhaps this will lead to something else and help me get the information I need.)

I began typing to organize what I had learned so far.

Roger had given me permission to share the information about the curse of the white swan and black swan with Nica.

I didn’t want to reveal the true nature of Nica’s curse, but Roger seemed to more or less have guessed it anyway.

And he evidently decided that disclosing it wouldn’t bring any harm to Crown.

However, I couldn't simply hand over the raw documents, so I ended up compiling the information myself…..

(Roger seemed to have thoughts on the matter too….)

I don’t know how much of the true situation Roger witnessed when he visited Haus as a child.

Yet, he clearly felt something regarding the twins who were born and raised there.

Reasoning that it would be acceptable to share at least this much, he helped me search for any other documents containing information on the white swan and the black swan.

[Transitions to Kate’s Room]

Kate: Done….

I gathered the completed report pages together and punched holes along the left edge.

(It’s a bit childlike, but I suppose this will do?)

I threaded a pale emerald-green ribbon through the holes and tied it into a neat bow, pulling it tight.

(Well, Nica probably won’t mind how I organize them.)

Deciding it looked fine, I rose from my seat.

Kate: Oh.

At that moment, I remembered something, opened my notebook, and picked up the four-leaf clover I had tucked between the last page.

(I should move this to a fresh sheet of paper.)

Wanting to preserve this symbol of good luck like a pressed flower, I placed the clover between two sheets of paper and set it beneath the novel lying on my desk.

Kate: Time to go see Nica.

I arrived at Nica’s room with the report in hand, but unfortunately, he wasn't there.

(Door’s locked too….Given the nature of the contents, leaving it behind would be careless.)

(I'll just hold onto it until I can hand it to him directly.)

I turned on my heel and headed back the way I came.

As I walked, Nica was the only thing on my mind.

(Come to think of it, Nica’s room doesn’t get much sunlight.)

A room where one couldn’t even sense the sunlight during the day.

(I wonder if his place in Germany is like this, too.)

He had said he disliked bright light and considering Haus, I felt I could finally understand why.

(It must have been pitch-black.)

In a place so dark that you couldn't even see the light outside, he longed for voyages and dreamt of the seas he had never seen.

I imagine that the traces of a childhood spent like that still linger within him.

Lost in thought about Nica as I walked, I found myself back in the garden before I knew it.

(It started out the way it did, yet I never imagined I’d come to love him this much.)

Stopping, I looked up to see a vast, brilliant blue sky.

[Series of Flashbacks with Narrative]

Nica: Heh….what a cute expression.

It started with him making me blush with sweet words.

Nica: You know, you shouldn’t fall asleep so defensively around a guy, Spatzi.

Nica: Isn’t that basically saying that you don’t mind what happens to you?

He teased and laughed at me.

Nica: To think you’d believe such an obvious lie… you really are stupid.

Even after realizing I’d been played...

Nica: …You can laugh and call me a fool. And it’s okay to blame me too.

...I still couldn't stop loving him.

[Flashbacks End]

Despite being hurt and toyed with by Nica, I still loved him.

(But part of the reason my feelings won’t fade is because of Nica’s attitude.)

No matter what he said, he never truly pushed me away.

If he didn’t want me to like him, he would have told Crown about that incident without hesitation and put some distance between us.

But Nica didn’t do that.

(Though I can’t deny the theory that he still sees me as a toy he can use…)

Kate: If Crown were to set me free.…would that mean I’d never see Nica again?

If I were allowed to, I would want to stay by Nica’s side.

If I can help him find happiness by drawing Ring into his fate, then I don’t mind if my wish doesn’t come true.

It isn't because an ability has been used on me. It’s something I truly desire from the bottom of my heart.

And yet…I don’t think it’ll come to pass.

Kate: Haaa…..

Crouching down in front of the fountain I gaze at the sparkling surface of the water.

(Come to think of it, there was a similar passage in the sea voyage book I found in Nica’s room.)

Recalling the description of the twins who were captivated by the glittering sea, I clutch my head again.

(I’m thinking about Nica again…!)

Just as I was thinking it felt as though I was under the effect of his ability when I really wasn’t, I spotted a group of parliamentarians walking by whose meeting session must’ve just ended.

議員 - Member of parliament is used here. They are not the same as privy counsellors. I used MP for short though this may vary on official EN translation.

Bespectacled MP: By the by, regarding that murder case in town the other day…it seems everyone involved was German.

Recognizing the matter, I lent an ear to the conversation.

The parliamentarians continue their conversation, mildly exasperated.

Burly MP: Ah, are you talking about the speculation that a key figure from Germany is pulling the strings behind the scenes?

Kate: !

Lanky MP: Exactly. I mean, there are hardly any German immigrants here, are there?

Lanky MP: And yet, ever since those dignitaries arrived, it seems crimes committed by German immigrants have been on the rise in various areas.

Bespectacled MP: Given the increase in the immigrant population, it wouldn't be unreasonable to suspect some sort of connection.

(I had no idea things like that were happening...)

It’s true. The recent incident involving Nica had been the work of Monica and the other Germans.

(The mastermind funding them may have a far greater objective than killing Nica.)

After recalling Nica’s hypothesis and then hearing this conversation, I felt that the rise in crimes by immigrants seemed to lend it credence.

(What exactly are they planning to do in England?)

Realizing I won't find an answer just by thinking about it, I stand up as the members of parliament leave.

(They probably already know, but I should let them know anyway.)

(I’ll have Ring pass the message on to Nica!)

(Actually, wouldn't it be faster to just tell Nica directly?)

Worried that a clumsy explanation might accidentally reveal Nica’s secrets to Ring, I decided to tell Nica myself.

No matter who I ultimately tell, Nica is the one who needs to be most on guard regarding this matter.

(Something similar to what happened to Monica and the others might happen again.)

Believing he ought to know since he had already been targeted once, I turned around.

(I'll go find Nica right away.)

Just as I was about to leave the spot...

I heard the sound of something breaking behind me and turned around.

Kate: Hm?

Suddenly, the fountain started malfunctioning and a massive amount of water came surging towards me.

Kate: Kyaah!??

[Enters into a Neu. POV]

While Kate was getting soaked to the bone, a Vogel meeting was taking place somewhere in London….

Darius: Well then, let's call it a day.

Nica immediately stood up, intending to return to the palace, but Darius stopped him.

Darius: Oh, Nica. Stay behind, there’s something I need to discuss with you.

Nica: Finnneee.

He returned to his seat with a smile, making no effort to hide the fact that he found the whole thing a massive hassle.

Darius didn't reprimand him for it.

Ring then left the room, leaving the two alone.

Darius: How’s your injury from the other day?

Nica: Completely healed, thankfully. Roger Barel’s treatment was spot-on.

Darius: It really is wonderful having a cursed doctor treat you. I wish he'd come work for us already.

Nica: Didn't you say you were going to have that Cursed person you scouted get a medical license? Whatever happened with that?

Darius: Hmm, it looks like that's going to take a while. That's why I want someone who's already fully qualified.

The two of them looked at each other and smiled.

Nica knew full well that this wasn't the reason Darius had asked him to stay.

Nica: So, what’s this really about?

Darius continued speaking, his smile never wavering.

Darius: You're smart enough to know what I'm getting at, don’t you?

Nica: It’s about the spatzi then…..

Nica averted his gaze, wearing a guilty expression.

Darius: Don’t worry. I’m not angry.

Darius: But, as I'm sure you realize, family comes first.

Darius: If your infatuation with her were to disrupt my plans, though... I might have to reconsider things.

Nica: I wouldn't get in your way, Dari. Besides, I'm not exactly infatuated with her.

Darius: But you're only cooperating because siding with me means backing the winning horse... right?

Nica remained silent.

Darius: I’m not criticizing you. In fact, that demeanor is what suits you best, Nica.

Darius: Family or not, if there's no mutual benefit, you'd switch sides in a heartbeat... It's better for you to be heartless.

Darius: That’s precisely what makes Ring’s loyalty shine so brightly, after all.

Darius opened a tin of snacks, picked out a few biscuits, and popped them into his mouth.

He wasn't being careful about how he ate, though. He let the crumbs fall to the floor without a second thought.

Darius: You know this already, I'm sure, but I absolutely adore the Cursed.

Darius: So, as long as you don't interfere with my plans, I don't mind if you want her for yourself.

Darius: I could even arrange for you to keep her as a pet. I'll have a custom cage prepared and everything.

Nica: You’re joking, right?

Darius: Well, keeping a robin requires a birdcage and a contract, doesn't it?

Darius: And perhaps I’ll prepare a collar too, so everyone knows she belongs to you?

Nica retorted without changing his expression while Darius continued to eat his biscuits.

Nica: You don’t need to go that far, Dari. I’m not going anywhere.

Nica: Even if I were to get my hands on her, nothing would really change.

A sharp gaze fixed upon Nica.

Darius: It would change things for you, at least.

Darius: She’s become someone important to you, Nica.

Darius stopped eating and wiped his mouth with the back of his hand.

Darius: She might be even more troublesome than Ring. After all, Miss Fairytale Keeper is nothing more than a human.

Darius: A single little poke would probably kill her.

Nica: ….Dari.

Darius smiled brightly in response to Nica’s skeptical gaze.

Darius: Don’t worry, I won’t do anything.

Darius: As long you work properly….yes?

[Transitions to Palace Corridor - MC’s POV]

(I can’t believe that happened….)

Soaking wet, I was walking along the outer corridor of the palace.

The fountain suddenly started acting up, unleashing a torrent upon me with such force that it could only be described as a water torture.

I managed to protect the report, at least, but I was left completely drenched.

A gardener rushed over immediately, realized the fountain was malfunctioning, and shut off the water, but...

(Could this possibly be related to the white swan's curse...?)

That was the only explanation that made sense to me as I walked along, dripping wet.

Nica: Huh….?

I stopped at the end of the corridor, and our eyes met as he stood there looking at me with, surprised.

Kate: Nica!

[Master List] [Chapter 19 Premium] [Chapter 20]

It’s something I heard someone once say.

That infatuation seeks the happiness of one’s self, while genuine love seeks the happiness of the other person.

When the two come together, it creates a give-and-take dynamic, and a relationship begins in which both partners can find happiness. Not just the one.

(So where does that leave me….?)

If I could say that it is 100% love, then maybe I would be considered a truly virtuous person.

But unfortunately, once you’ve fallen for someone, it’s impossible to completely shake off those selfish desires.

Because even the slightest word or action makes me hope, makes my feelings grow, and leads me to imagine a happy future together.

So I’m pretty sure the feelings I have for Nica right now contain a little bit of infatuation, and a vast amount of love.

[Kate’s Bedroom]

(Okay.)

Standing in front of the full-length mirror, I inspected my appearance and pulled my white cloth gloves snugly up my hands.

(You better brace yourself, Nica Schwartz!)

After gloving my hands to prevent Nica from using his powers on me if I ran into him, I confidently left my room.

[Transitions to Roger’s Lab]

Roger: This and this…..Oh, and this one too.

Surprised by the pile of documents being plopped down on the desk one after another, I tied my hair up.

Roger: You’re really fired up about this, huh?

Kate: Sure am, thanks for helping me out.

I picked up a document resting on top and turned a page.

The entire stack was a compilation of information related to curses.

[Flashback]

I want Nica to genuinely smile.

After leaving his room yesterday, I went straight to see Roger.

Kate: I’d like to see information regarding curses.

Roger seemed to grasp my intentions, so he replied with a smile.

Roger: First, you need to have a proper rest.

[Flash back Ends]

Doing exactly as he said, I rested well and then came here first thing this morning.

(Right, let’s get started!)

Roger brought over a chair, sat across from me, picked up some of the material and started flipping through the pages.

Kate: Are you doing research too, Roger?

Roger: Yeah. I’ve read everything here, but I thought I mind find something new if I reviewed it again.

Following suit, I carefully examined each of the pages.

The Interrelationship Between Curses, Impulses Driven by Sin, Fated Ends……

With every turn of the page, the lives of the cursed and their tragic ends unfolded before me.

(Killing a loved one and then taking one’s life, being killed under false accusation, being deified and then sacrificed….)

My heart ached at the accounts of such tragic endings, and I paused.

Kate: …Why do curses exist?

Thanks to Roger’s keen sense of hearing, my small murmur wasn’t didn’t go unnoticed…..

Roger: Dunno. I can’t say what the causality is behind it, but one thing is certain. Curses do exist in this world.

Roger: It could be the word ‘curse’ came about because of the curses in fairy tales.

Roger: And there’s a good chance that some of the people killed during the witch hunts in the Middle Ages were actually cursed.

Roger tapped his finger against a paper I was looking at.

There, it detailed a cursed fate: To lose one’s life by fire.

Kate: The curse doesn't have a definitive name, but since it frequently afflicted women, it's highly likely it was referred to as the Witches Curse….

Roger: Fairy tales are born from curses, right? That’s why many of them don’t have specific names.

Roger: It’s not uncommon to find descriptions that clearly stem from the same idea, even if the names differ from one record to the next.

Roger pulled a stack of papers from the pile and spread them out on the desk.

They all contained similar information.

Roger: There’s heaps of accounts like this about the cursed.

(I see... this is going to be a lot of work.)

Just as I was thinking about how exhausted I’d be by the time I finished analyzing everything, Roger’s eyebrows twitched.

Roger: Here comes trouble……

Kate: Huh…?

The next moment, the door to the basement blew wide open.

Victor: TADAAAA!! The ULTIMATE duo, William and Victor, have come to help!

William: If it’s not too much trouble, could you spare us a moment?

Though startled by their sudden arrival, Roger seemed to have sensed them coming and sighed.

Roger: So what brings the ultimate duo here?

Victor: We thought you might be interested in these records about the cursed.

With a grin of satisfaction, Victor placed a thick stack of parchment and several old scrolls onto the table.

Roger’s eyes widened.

Roger: These are….

Victor: The other day, while cleaning out the palace archives, I actually stumbled upon a hidden safe.

Victor: And that’s when I found these cursed documents written centuries ago!!

Kate: What?!

Roger: Oy, oy, are you serious?

The moment Roger unfolded the scroll, a sharp, musty smell hit my nose.

William: I never imagined there would be a records related to the cursed hidden in the palace.

Victor: Yes, I even leapt for joy.

Victor: I thought of asking for William’s assistance with deciphering it.

Victor: But it seems you both are already up to something interesting!

Victor: So I figured it would be more fun if we all worked on deciphering it together... and I went ahead and brought it along! ★

William: So that’s what brings us here. Do you mind if we join you?

Kate: Of course not! Uh, Roger….?

Roger: To think there was someone afflicted with the same curse back then just like today……

Roger could have been referring to his own curse, but I kept it generic because I couldn't tell 100%

Victor: Seems like he can’t hear us anymore.

The two of them shrugged as they watched Roger muttering to himself while staring intently at the documents.

With Victor and William taking their seats, the four of us were now gathered around the table.

Victor: All right, let’s get started!

The time I had set aside to deepen my understanding of curses turned into time spent deciphering the new documents.

(Hmm…)

About three hours had passed since I began the unraveling work.

(There’s a lot of overlap between these and what Roger gave me.)

It’s the same kind of information over and over. I can’t find anything new.

Victor: Did you find anything new?

Roger: There are a few things that caught my eye, but content’s mostly similar to what I already have. What about you, Kate?

Kate: Nothing in particular for me either….

William stopped flipping through pages.

William: I suppose that’s because there were fewer people who understood the cursed back then as there are now.

William: Humans are creatures that reject beings different from themselves. I suppose there were few people who would have stood up for them.

William tapped the parchment with his finger. It depicted a man impaled by multiple swords.

(“This man was feared for his supernatural powers. He was framed and executed….”)

It was a horrific picture, with the people gleefully looking around the lifeless man.

Every record detailing the fates of those who appeared to be cursed were tragic.

Just as sorrow started to sink in I noticed a passage about a pair of cursed twins.

“Depending on the region, twins might be reviled as abominations or revered as divine figures.

However, it is highly likely that most of the twins referred to as demons possessed supernatural powers.

Yet, they never shared the exact same ability; no matter how alike they were, distinct powers would manifest in each.

Their ends too shall come in different ways.”

My heart aches when I think of Nica.

(Is there no precedent for bringing another cursed person into one's own fate?)

But no matter how much I scoured the documents, I couldn't find the information I was looking for anywhere.

(“No one can escape their fate…”)

A breath escaped me as I felt the weight of that written sentence bear down on me.

Then, William looked up from a record and spoke up as if something occurred to him.

William: Come to think of it, the final day of your being fairytale keeper is almost here.

His words make me start.

(That’s right, it’s almost a month…)

I have only a few days left as a fairytale keeper. Once that’s over, I’m set to return to my old life.

(I don’t know if can return though….)

[Flashback Narrative]

After Nica used his ability on me, I stole confidential information from Victor’s office.

Even though they were reports written by myself, and even though Nica was already aware of its contents…..

Stealing them is unforgivable.

[Flashback Narrative Ends]

Roger: Ya know, you might be better off not knowing too much.

Kate: What?

Roger keeps his eyes pasted on the parchment while speaking.

Roger: You might find yourself unable to go back.

I offer a wry smile, acknowledging the truth of his words.

Kate: Either way, I can’t exactly go home with a clear conscience if things stayed the way they are…..

(Not just because he’s got dirt on me, but I can’t leave Nica behind and go back to my old life like this.)

(Now that I know the truth, I want to help…because I’ve fallen for Nica.)

Roger said nothing more, and so I turned my attention back to the records.

Believing that somewhere out there, a tiny shred of hope lies waiting to make Nica’s wish come true.

[Transitions to the Forest on Castle Grounds]

(There was nothing written about it at all….)

Victor returned to work, William went on a mission, and Roger is still glued to his documents.

As for me, I was beginning to feel despondent after page upon page yielded no promising information. So I decided to step out for some fresh air and took a walk through the forest connecting Crown Castle to the palace.

As I strolled along, breathing the fresh air deeply in and out, I spotted Nica in the distance.

Kate: Oh…!

I took a step forward, intending to call out to him, but stopped short as I remembered what had happened the other day.

(I want to speak to Nica, but he may not want to speak to me….)

Just as I was hesitating, something suddenly landed on my shoulder.

Kate: Eek!!

Nica: Spatzi?

Some kind of wet splat hit my shoulder, and I let out scream.

Noticing me, Nica came rushing over in a panic.

Nica: What happened, are you okay?

I tentatively touched my left shoulder and found a squashed piece of fruit...

Kate: Ugh, and it was a brand new blouse too….

Nica: Geez, that's the worst. I'd hate it if my new clothes got stained like that.

Nica: And that purple color doesn’t look like it’ll come out will it? My condolences spatzi, I really do feel for you.

Nica wiped the stain with a handkerchief, but it didn’t come completely off.

Nica: You should probably go change soon.

His tone was a bit blunt, but his hands were gentle as he tried to dab away the stain.

Nica: It’s a shame about your new clothes.

Kate: ….Actually, I think it’s rather lucky.

Noticing the handkerchief staining purple, I gently moved his hand away from my shoulder.

His brows furrowed with puzzlement as I lifted my arms.

Kate: I bought my usual size, but it's so tight around the shoulders that I can't lift them any higher.

Kate: I wore it anyway because it seemed like such a waste... but maybe this is a sign from above telling me never to wear it again!?

As I shifted the angle to show him how my arms wouldn't go up, Nica burst out laughing.

Nica: Hahaha! It really is tight. That’s definitely the size for a child.

With his brows lifted and a laugh that made him look like a little boy, he held a genuine, unfeigned expression.

Captivated by that smile, my heart began to pound loudly.

(Oh, I really do love you…..)

No matter how much he teases me or toys with me, whenever I sense his undeniable kindness and see his genuine smile, I’m convinced that I love Nica.

Nica: Here, I’ll give this to poor little you.

Kate: Oh, a four-leaf clover! Where did you find it?

Nica: It was growing over there.

Nica placed the clover into my hand and then gave a quick smile.

Nica: That’s the nature of my curse, you see.

A while back, I might have told myself I was only imagining the look of loneliness on his face.

But now that I know his past and understand the meaning behind that expression, I gently cup the clover in my hands.

Even though good fortune should be resting right there in my palm, I felt as though it were slipping away through the gaps between my fingers.

Kate: …I truly do love you, Nica.

His eyebrows twitched.

Kate: But it’s not that I want to date you or anything like that... I just want to make sure you don't have to shoulder everything alone.

Kate: I want to make sure you don’t have to keep struggling on your own.

Kate: So I’ll just keep doing my best on my own, in the hope that it will lead to a future where you can smile, even just a little.

(Deep down, of course, I wish you’d love me back and that we could end up together...)

But more than that, I want him to walk toward a future where he doesn't have to keep fighting all alone.

Don’t keep toying with things, hiding, and dancing on and on… Please don’t do anything that would ruin your life just to drag your brother into your fate.

(Because if you do that, you’ll never find happiness no matter how much time passes, Nica.)

Nica: You’re going to spend all your time on something that’s never going to happen, even though I’ll never look your way?

It would be easy to get angry at that condescending tone.

But my resolve remains unshaken.

Kate: I said it was for your sake, but the main reason is that I want to do it.

Kate: Please don’t try to stop me. And even if you do, I’ll just keep meddling anyway.

Nica looked annoyed and tried to scoop up my right hand and drop a kiss on it, but my hand was completely covered by the glove.

Kate: Too bad. I’ve already taken cautionary measures.

I deliberately curled the corners of my lips as Nica frowned.

Nica: What a pain…..

As he let go and walked away, I turned on my heel in high spirits, feeling a sense of triumph.

On the way, a maid handed me a fresh change of clothes. I changed and returned to the basement.

I took my seat and began reading through the materials Roger had given me once more.

There, I found a brief record concerning the person known as the one cursed by the white swan.

“People whom a white swan has taken a liking to often find themselves plagued by bad luck.

Having bird droppings land on one's shoulder, frequently getting splashed with water, or drawing nothing but losing lots — such piddly misfortunes are proof of being loved by a white swan.”

I recalled what had happened just moments ago.

The instant I spotted Nica, I had the bad luck of a rotten fruit falling onto my new blouse.

(That was the first time in my life something like that had ever happened...)

If this account was true, and I hope it is.

Then that bad luck would mean -

It’s the ultimate proof that I hold a place in Nica’s heart.

[Master List] [His Side Story @.kurishiri] [Chapter 19]

In the dimly lit room, banknotes swirled about, and the gauze that had been covering his face lay torn off on the floor.

Nica stood in the center, directing his chilly gaze at me.

Nica: ……You look well.

He muttered without changing his expression as the banknotes behind him silently fell to the floor.

Kate: I’m glad you…..woke up.

I wanted to rush over, but I couldn't move because the aura surrounding Nica was unlike anything I'd ever seen before.

Kate: Where did all this money come from…?

Nica: This? It’s the operation funds they were hiding.

Nica: It seems Dari brought from their flat. It was in my room when I returned.

(They…..he must mean Monica and the others.)

Nica spoke with a detached tone and apathetic expression as he picked up one of the fallen bills from the floor.

Nica: It seems they've been trying every trick in the book to get close in order to kill me.

Nica: Back in Germany, security’s so tight they couldn’t get near me. So it seems they changed their plan and came to England.

Nica: In England, immigrants need money to make a decent living, don’t they?

It seemed like a small amount considering it was supposedly for their endeavors.

And it made me reflect on the time they'd spent in this country.….

Nica: Incidentally, it looks like they haven’t touched any of it.

Kate: What?

Nica: It came in a large envelope, and there were no signs of the wax seal being tampered with.

I was handed the large envelope that contained the money.

It simply said, Operational Funds For You All.

Kate: It says for you all…..meaning this was given to them by someone else, right?

Nica: Correct. It’s blood money from the one who’s backing my assassination.

Even while talking to Roger, I was troubled by the fact that Monica and the other two had come to England all on their own.

(Even if they didn’t have the opportunity to kill Nica back in Germany, why would they come here a year beforehand?)

If they were targeting Nica, they should have traveled to this country at the same time he was coming.

But the reason they went through the trouble of staying here an entire year, without touching the funds…..

Kate: …..Did they have something else planned, besides killing you?

Nica: That’s right. The person who sent this money was probably scheming something bad, and sent them to England.

Nica: I guess their craving for revenge just happened to work out.

He snatched the envelope from my hand and tore it in half.

Nica: In other words, they came to England a larger purpose, and killing me was just a bonus.

Nica: Seems like a plausible explanation.

Kate: What larger purpose….?

Nica: Who knows? I don’t.

He crumpled the torn envelope, tossed it into the trash bin, and kicked the money aside with a sneer.

Nica: Anyway, look at this. It’s nothing more than chicken feed, isn’t it?

Nica: It’s ridiculous to come all the way to a foreign land just for this measly sum, let alone try to get revenge.

Nica: I wonder what they were planning to do after killing me.

He crouched down, picked up a banknote with his fingertips, blew on it, and it dropped to the ground.

Nica: They’d just get used again, or thrown away…..It’s laughable really.

Even though he said it was laughable, his profile showed no sign of a smile.

If anything, he looked hurt, so I handed him the journal I was holding.

He must’ve recognized it because his eyes grew as wide as saucers.

Nica: …..Where did you get this?

Kate: From Darius..…It was left in the place where you were born and raised.

He flipped through the journal he'd been given, checking its contents, and then snorted.

Nica: Dari’s been keeping it all this time? Do you have any clue how it’s been since Haus was destroyed?

Nica: Bet he used this to tell you about my past.

I nodded slightly.

Nica: Dari told you this story because I'm opportunistic and he wanted to give me another to be fettered by the organisation.

Nica: Dari likes calling us a family, but as fast as I’m concerned it’s strictly business. I’m simply riding the winning horse.

Nica: If a better opportunity comes along, I’ll jump ship in a heartbeat.

Nica closed the journal and turned his head slightly.

Nica: But Dari won’t allow that. So he likely thought of using you as another chord to tie me down, in addition to Ring.

Nica: First, he deliberately showed you all those women surrounding me to see if you'd leave me or not.

Nica: And since you didn't leave me, he got you more emotionally invested by sharing our past and eliciting your sympathy.

Nica: All in hopes that if you stay by my side, you might someday become something that ties me down, just like Ring.

Nica: That's why he purposefully had you tag along with Ring on his mission…So it would lead you to my past, and eventually hear my story.

I thought I was being played by Nica, that he was the only one manipulating me—

(But in actuality, Darius was manipulating me too.)

I only realized this fact when Nica explained it to me, but what weighed more heavily on my heart was a sense of apology.

Kate: ….I’m sorry for prying.

I clutched my chest tightly.

Nica didn’t even look at me.

Kate: ….. I called you the worst without knowing anything.

Nica: But it’s true, isn’t it?

Kate: Yes. Even after hearing this, I still don't think what you did was right.

Nica: That’s harsh.

Kate: But I'm not in a position to judge whether your actions were right or wrong.

If we could easily define what’s right or wrong, the world might be a simpler place.

I believe that what is right varies from person to person.

(That’s why I can neither condemn Nica, nor say he did the right thing.)

It’s easy to forgive someone when you love them.

But the fact that so many people have been sacrificed, hurt, toyed with, and cried because of his actions, it’s not something that can't simply be erased.

I myself probably can’t forgive what he did to me.

After a moment of silence, Nica spoke without looking at me.

Nica: Have you told Ring?

Kate: I haven’t….I can’t tell him something like this.

Kate: There's no way I could reveal something you've been hiding from him all this time.

Nica: ….I see.

He stood up, threw the journal onto the desk, and stretched.

Nica: Ahhh man, so Dari could read my code all along.

Nica: I really need to switch to a new one, but it's such a hassle to make.

He gathered the scattered banknotes on the floor with the tip of his foot, and turned his face towards me.

I felt as if his eyes were shimmering like the surface of water.

Nica: That’s right, I’m the white swan.

Nica: The pure white swan that was cursed, mistaken for someone else, and betrayed. And yet, continues to foolishly dance.

I held my breath at his serious expression, but Nica paid no mind and kept talking.

Nica: But thanks to this curse, a lot of good fortune falls into my hands.

Nica: Finding four-leaf clovers, opportunities to make money, when I’m in a bind help comes running….

Nica: All of this good luck is a product of the white swan’s sin — narcissism.

Those afflicted by curses possess a predetermined nature—a sin—that compels their actions.

For example, the Queen of Hearts from Alice in Wonderland.

William’s curse, which inspired the character of the Queen, loves freedom above all else, helps people in a self-righteous manner, and fights evil with evil.

Elbert’s curse, which inspired the character for the Queen from Snow White, is insatiably greedy and constantly seeks out beautiful things.

It's understandable that these are not positive things, given that they are described as sins.

However, it's also true that some people manage to tame their sins effectively.

But—

(Narcissism brings good fortune.)

Throughout the story, the white swan is consistently portrayed as a pitiable woman.

Cursed by a devil and transformed into a swan, she finally finds true love only to be betrayed.

Although it ultimately ends happily, it’s not the kind of ending that leaves everyone smiling.

That’s because the story is not a comedy, but a tragedy centered on true love.

(But it's still just a story.)

A fairy tale curse is the foundation upon which the story is born.

In other words, no matter how pitiable the swan is portrayed in the story, that doesn’t necessarily mean it corresponds to the curse.

Nica: You look as if you don't understand what I mean by narcissism.

Nica scoffed, noticing my thoughts.

Nica: Yeah, I didn’t think it was true either when I first heard the story.

Nica: But when I thought about my fate, it all made sense.

Kate: How….?

He spun around and placed his hand on his chest.

Nica: To end up being the only one to find happiness is an incredibly arrogant fate. It’s unimaginable unless you’re extremely self-centered.

Nica: This is also why everyone around me ends up having such bad luck.

Nica: Ring’s luck is so terrible around me it’s laughable.

His gaze, which had been fixed on me, drifted down to the floor.

In a small voice, Nica continued.

Nica: It's funny, isn’t it? How I'm the white swan who toys with love, deceives and stirs things up. Meanwhile, it’s Ring who is the black swan, even though he isn’t like that at all.

Kate: But aren’t those things something you’ve done to protect Ring?

Nica: If that's the case, why do you think my ability makes people fall in love with me?

Nica: The ability to make others love you is the epitome of narcissism, isn't it?

Nica: I don’t know what kind of image you have of me.

Nica: But that doesn’t change the fact that I’m a damn self-centered swan, does it?

His mocking laugh reminded me of my conversation with Ring.

Kate: ….If someone had sacrificed themself for you, and had accepted the consequences to shoulder the of it burden entirely.

Kate: I discussed with Ring how he'd feel about that before coming here.

The corners of Nica’s mouth twitched slightly.

Kate: He told me that he’d feel incredibly sad, and that he might even confront that person. But he also said that if he were in the same position as them, he would do the same.

Kate: ……Especially, if it were for you.

His expression remained unchanged.

Kate: When I heard that, I felt the same as Ring.

Kate: That for the sake of someone precious to me, I wouldn’t mind sacrificing myself and bearing the burden of everything……

Kate: Because I—

Nica: Shut up.

Kate: Ack!

Suddenly, my vision flipped upside down, and before I knew it, I was being pushed down onto the bed.

Nica was straddling me, his expression clearly telling me to stop talking, as he leaned in to kiss me.

But I turned my face away and pressed my lips against the sheets.

Nica: You like me, but you're turning your face away.

Even when he grabbed my cheeks and forced me to turn back. Even when he pinned my hands to the sheets, I absolutely refused to accept his kiss.

Kate: Unless you truly love me, I won’t accept any kiss from you!

As I struggled and thrashed about, he frowned, looking uncomfortable.

Nica: Just what kind of innocence do you expect from me?

I glared at him as he looked down at me with a twisted expression.

After a few seconds of staring at each other, I was the first to speak.

Kate: How long will you continue to live for money and power?

Nica: Forever. Until everything goes my way.

Kate: And will that make you happy?

Nica: Of course, I’m already happy now.

Kate: ……Then why do you look like that?

When I repeated the words he once said, his gaze hardened.

Kate: I know you need to have those things. I understand you intend to continue.

Kate: But I just can't imagine someone with that look on their face being happy.

I continued.

Kate: Even Ring has noticed.

For a moment, the restraint of his hands slackened.

Kate: It’s up to you whether you choose to tell the truth or not. But if you keep going like this...

Kate: Won’t that only cause you suffering….?

Tears collected and spilled down my cheeks as I thought of how he always walked a painful path, and will continue to walk down it in the future.

(He may be destined to find happiness in the end….)

But that’s merely the end. It doesn’t encompass the long journey it takes to get there.

The longer the journey, the heavier Nica’s suffering will weigh on his shoulders, and the harder and more arduous his days will become.

(Because I love him, I don’t want him to experience such pain.)

After wiping my tears with the sleeve of his shirt, Nica gets out of bed with an air of exasperation.

Nica: …..You’re truly a troublesome woman.

That was the last thing he said before leaving the room.

Left alone, I wiped away my tears and looked around the room.

On the wall were numerous documents written in what was likely Nica-Code.

There was a ship in a bottle near the window that was collecting dust, and when I reached for a faded book nearby, it was a sailing journal about twin sailors.

Kate: …..Nica and Ring boarded a ship, and set sail on a journey to discover the unknown reaches of the sea.

(Oh, this is that voyage journal.)

I stare desperately at the ceiling, trying to keep my tears from falling onto the book.

Slowly, I exhaled in this room filled with countless efforts and fragments of abandoned dreams.

(What can I do for Nica?)

After thinking about it a lot, the image that came to mind was of him furrowing his brow in a troubled way, and smiling like a young boy.

Kate: …..I want to see Nica truly smile.

Not forced a smile, but a genuine smile that shines in unguarded moments.

I want to see him smiling like that at Ring, and I want to see them smiling happily together.

(In the short time I have left, I want to see Nica smile even a little.)

Even though I knew this was meddling, my resolve did not waver.

Because I—

Kate: ….Because I’m foolishly in love with you, Nica.

[Main Story Master List] [Chapter 18]

Ugh, he is spiraling. I think he is so empty and exhausted for keeping up a lie for years, and then the reckoning he had with Monica and the others is finally taking it's toll.

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[Cold Open to Past Records Backstory - Nica POV]

At first, everything about us was the same.

Our eye color, height, face…..everything.

But after learning how to read and write, we went from being one to two.

Month X, Day XX: This is my first journal entry.

My name is 404. My little brother's name is 405.

We’ve been together ever since we were born. We knew what we looked like when we looked into each other’s eyes.

404 (Nica): …..Hngh.

405 (Ring): Are you okay….?

In this place called Haus, I endure excruciating pain every single day.

404 (N): I’m okay, because I’m not alone.

But, if my baby brother is here next to me, it’ll be fine.

As long as we are together, we can make it through any hardship.

It was on the XX day of the X Month, that I recently learned to tell time.

When the hands are at nine and six, we get bread.

When they are at ten, it’s time for experiments.

Once I started getting ready for the experiments beforehand, I stopped getting beaten.

405 (R): They told me I did a good job for being ready by ten.

405 (R): You’re right big bro, you’re so amazing!

Month XX, Day XX: We read about a sea voyage from a book peddler who had been taken.

It was difficult because it was full of hard words, but I read it aloud to my baby brother.

Apparently, there's something called the sea outside.

My brother said he wanted to go, so I promised him that we would go together someday.

Since the main characters in the story were twin sailors, we decided to take our names from them.

Nica: I’m the older brother, so I’ll be Nica.

Ring: And I’m the younger one, so I’ll be Ring.

Nica: As of today, we are Nica and Ring!

We're going to get out of here as soon as possible.

To go as far as we can, together.

Month XX, Day XX: Ring has been dealing with pain a lot more recently.

Ring: It’s okay, as long as you’re here Nica, I’ll be okay.

Seeing my brother return injured, I tried to take his place in experiments.

But I'm undergoing another experiment at the same time, so I can't take his place.

What should I do? If things continue like this, Ring will die.

….What about asking another child?

I can use my power to have them take Ring's place.

Nica: If you love me, you’ll do whatever I ask, won’t you?

It’s a rotten thing to do, but if it means Ring can live, then it’s worth it.

Ring is all I have.

[Transitions to Experimentation Chamber]

Month XX, Day XX: We were told about our curses today.

Ring returned to our room earlier and fainted, so the grown ups told me about our curse after successfully making it through an experiment.

405, Curse of the Black Swan. Fate: Their love will turn into a lie, and they will die in misery.

404, Curse of the White Swan. Fate: In the end, the only one who will find happiness is yourself.

Nica: What……???

Ring is all I have.

But they said after his love turns into a lie, he would die in misery, and that I’m the only one who would end up happy.

All by myself, alone, happy.

Nica: Ring should’ve been the one to be happy, my brother should be happier than me...!

Ring was a reflection in my eyes, and I was a reflection in his.

We mirrored each other in our eyes and overcame every trial together.

Because Ring is here, and because I am here. That's why I can still keep pushing forward.

I’ve been working so hard, hoping we can escape from this hell, but what’s the point if I’m the only one who ends up happy?

There’s no way I can possibly accept that.

[Transitions to Twin’s Room]

Nica: …..I’ve gotta protect Ring.

I must protect Ring.

I’m the older brother, so I must protect my little brother.

I can’t let Ring get swallowed up by this fate.

Otherwise, I can’t be happy.

— I can't possibly be happy without Ring in my life.

Nica: Ring, I found out about our curse.

That day, I told my brother a massive lie.

That our curse is that of the black swan.

That our love would twist into a lie, and that we would die in misery.

Ring said in response….

Ring: I’m not afraid as long as I’m with you, Nica.

Don’t worry Ring, I won’t leave you behind to be happy all on my own.

We will be happy together, so let's use this power to claim everything.

Just like the researchers at this facility, I’ll do whatever it takes.

Deceive, steal, hurt others — toy with love.

If we gain tons of money and power, we’ll surely be happy.

Just like those twins in that sea voyage journal, we’ll be able to live freely, no matter where we go.

I….

405 (R): Are you okay…?

I….

405 (R): You’re right big bro, you’re so amazing!

I…..

Ring: And I’m the younger one, so I’ll be Ring.

I….!!

Ring: It’s okay, as long as you’re here Nica, I’ll be okay.

Ring: I’m not afraid as long as I’m with you, Nica.

I have to protect my only baby brother.

I’ll hide everything from him and sacrifice myself.

I don’t need anyone to protect me.

After all, even if I’m not protected, I’ll end up happy, won’t I?

That’s why I will shield Ring.

I’ll drag him into my fate.

[Transitions to the Present, Vogel Parlor - MC POV]

Hot tears welled up.

Darius: This is Nica’s diary that was left behind at Haus.

Darius snapped the small, tattered cover of the journal shut and continued speaking dispassionately.

Darius: It took a while to decode because he started using his own cipher partway through.

Darius: Even now, he still writes important things using the cipher he created.

Darius: Not even knowing that I can read it….it’s sort of adorable, isn’t it?

Tears streamed down my face and fell onto the fists I was clenching on my lap.

The droplets glistening in the morning sun were so bright it was almost laughable.

(I didn’t understand anything.)

I finally know why Nica craves money and power, and why he wants to be the happiest man in the world….and it makes my heart sting.

Darius glanced at me, disinterested, before continuing the story.

Darius: I think they were around nine years old at the time. Once I learned the true nature of Haus, I went to the institution directly.

Darius: Seeing the cursed ones there treated so cruelly, I decide to shut the facility down.

Darius: That’s how I met Nica and Ring.

Darius smiled nostalgically.

Darius: I could sense Nica’s strong will to survive no matter what.

Darius: But Ring’s spirit was already dead. Like it beyond reviving.

Kate: Hngh…..

(It was the experiments that broke his spirit….)

Haus may already be gone, but there’s no denying the fact that they committed acts atrocious enough to destroy a nine year old child’s spirit.

Darius: So, I had the mind to only take Nica along with me…..but then I saw Nica say this to Ring…

Darius: I can either kill you now, or you can live with me in this hell until you die — You pick whichever hell you prefer.

Darius: And then Ring said that he would live.

Darius: So, I took the twins under my wings, placed them in Vogel, and that’s how we got to where we are now.

All I can do now is shed tears at this horrific, indescribable past.

Darius: When I first brought them to Vogel, Ring was useless, so Nica did most of the work.

Darius: Assassination, espionage - even using his ability to fiddle with love - he’d do anything to get his hands on money and power.

[Flashback]

Nica: The worst, huh….Don’t expect decency from someone who’s only ever lived life like this.

[Flashback Ends]

I reflect on the words I had spoken to him.

Deceiving people, betraying them, toying with them…all for the sake of a single desire.

These were the means he chose, having worked hard since childhood to bring his brother into a happy destiny.

His despicable behavior stemmed from his desperate struggle to avoid being alone and unhappy in the end.

(Even so, I can’t wholly forgive him, but….)

The grief of being betrayed and the pang of being toyed with still linger deep in my heart.

But even after all that, I’ve fallen for Nica.

After hearing about his past, understanding his true intentions, and shedding tears, I wanted to do something about it.

I fell in love with the white swan who kept struggling for the sake of the black swan’s happiness.

(Ring’s totally in the dark about it.)

Knowing Nica, he’s managed to keep it a secret this whole time.

Ring likely doesn’t realize it’s all to pull him into a different fate…..

(What can I do?)

I want to do something about it, I want to make his wish come true, I want him to be happy.

I know that nothing will change just because I desperately want to fight for this.

(Even so, now that I know, I can't help but want to do something.)

My feelings have grown only stronger because I have fallen in love with him.

Suddenly, there was a knock on the door, and Ring came in when a bright expression.

Ring: Nica woke up. He seemed fine, so he’s resting in his room now.

Darius: I see, that’s excellent news.

A delighted Ring ran over to me.

Ring: It all right now, don’t worry.

I felt relieved by the good news, but I couldn't bring myself to look at Ring’s face.

Ring: What’s wrong? Is your wound hurting you…?

Ring looked at the bandage around my neck with concern—

Kate: Are you okay, Ring?

Ring: ? Yeah, it’s not a serious injury, so I’m fine.

Ring: If anything, I’m just hungry from the relief.

As I continued our conversation without making eye contact, Ring spoke in a gentle voice to reassure me.

Ring: You should get some rest after you check on Nica.

Kate: …..Good idea.

I glanced at Darius. He handed me the journal with a completely unreadable expression.

Darius: If you're going to Nica, give this to him. I've deciphered it, so I don't need it anymore.

Holding the tattered journal, I curtsied to Darius and left the reception room with Ring. - Uses kanji for ‘bow’. I changed to ‘curtsied.’

As we walked down the corridor bathed in the morning light, Ring suddenly pointed to the journal.

Ring: That looks familiar, is it Nica’s?

Kate: …..Yes.

All I could do was nod slightly, because I now knew Nica’s feelings as they were written inside.

(I’m sure he would hate for Ring to see it.)

Even though it was written in code from a certain point onwards, the beginning was penned by a child and contained both of their painful pasts.

If Ring reads this, he would undoubtedly be reminded of those times and it would hurt his heart.

I now understand that Nica would hate that the most.

Sensing what I was thinking, Ring took his eyes off the journal and spoke cheerfully.

Ring: Nica has always kept all sorts of records in a code only he understands.

Ring: I call it “The Nica Code”.

Kate: The Nica Code….hehe.

I couldn't help but laugh, realizing he was right.

Ring: The first thing Nica asked me when he woke up, was for your whereabouts.

Kate: What….?

Shocked, my feet came to halt. Ring pointed at my neck.

Ring: He was worried about your injury. As soon as he saw me, he asked if you were okay.

Ring: It was the first time I’d seen him like that….No, actually, it’s the same worried look he used to give me.

Ring narrowed his eyes nostalgically.

Ring: When Nica is genuinely worried, he loses all composure.

Kate: I see…..

I lowered my gaze, happy but unable to fully rejoice in the current situation.

(I wonder what Ring would think if he found out about Nica’s secret.)

Kate: ......This is just a hypothetical scenario, but.…..

Ring: ? Yeah?

Kate: If someone had sacrificed themselves for you.…..and had accepted the consequences to shoulder the burden entirely…..

Kate: How would you feel about that, Ring?

Ring paused for a moment, thinking deeply about it before answering.

Ring: …..I’d be incredibly sad, and might even confront them.

Ring: But I think if I were in the same position, I’d do the same.

Ring: All the more so, if it were for Nica’s sake.

(Oh, I see now.)

The answer suddenly clicked in my heart, and that's when I realized...…

(This is how they’ve drifted apart.)

It’s precisely because they care for each other that they’ve grown distant; even though they cherish each other more than anyone else, their hearts have stopped connecting.

Understanding how both Nica and Ring feel makes my chest hurt.

(…..But it’s something I shouldn’t interfere with.)

I made up my mind never to say a word until Nica spoke up.

Ring: Well, I’ll leave you to it.

Kate: Yes, thank you.

Saying goodbye to Ring, I stood in front of Nica’s room.

After taking several deep breaths, I knocked on the door and reached for the doorknob.

Kate: Nica, are you there?

The door wasn’t locked when I turned the handle, and it opened with a click.

The next moment, I saw a huge pile of banknotes swirling around the room.

Kate: Huh?

Amid the fluttering bills, Nica stood there alone.

Kate: Nica…?

He had been staring vacantly at the ceiling, but then he turned his gaze toward me.

His eyes were dreadfully icy.

LETTER

A Discarded Note Found in Nica’s Room

Monica Hoffman, Subject 738

The first child I ever toyed with love. She was placed into the room in front of ours when she was about seven years old. After having her arm injured from one of the experiments she took on for Ring, she moved to a different room. She was born in a rural area and was apparently sold to reduce the number of mouths to feed. She often talked about the outside world.

Mark Hoffman, Subject 751

An unassuming child brought in shortly after Monica. He was often deprived of food and always hungry, so I took advantage of that and gave him bread to win him over. After he gave me a map of Haus that I used my ability on him to get, the theft was discovered and he was beaten.

Tobias Hoffman, Subject 813

A child who was in love with Monica. He was brought in from the streets after stealing a researcher’s wallet. After I listened sympathetically to his troubles, he opened up to me, so I had him take the drug that had been given in Ring’s stead.

𝑵𝒊𝒄𝒂 𝑺𝒄𝒉𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒛

[Main Story Master List] [Chapter 17]

Ugh, my heart.....

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𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬: my sincerest apologies for the wait on this chapter. new semester of uni started and I've been balancing things as best I can. Chapter 15 should be out in a much more orderly fashion from me, haha! 𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭.

Ring stared at me as we sat inside the rocking carriage.

Our eyes would meet, then his would dart away, the pink of his cheeks reddening each time until I couldn't take it anymore—

Kate: Um, is something the matter? Ring: !? N-No, it's...nothing. Kate: Is that so...?

I glanced out the window as Ring's face burnt crimson. Acting as Vogel's fairytale keeper, I was tasked with accompanying Ring on his mission tonight. The mission was to eliminate three targets, as there were people in England who were "interfering with Vogel's activities." Darius seemed to consider it quite serious, ordering for them to be taken out immediately.

I'm honestly surprised with how different this mission is from when I accompanied Nica. Though I realize that Nica and Ring have fundamentally different jobs.

I wasn't told who the targets were or how they had interrupted Vogel, I was only told to accompany Ring.

But maybe it's for the best I wasn't assigned to Nica.

I didn't know if I could face him after yesterday's exchange.

Kate: Haah...

Hearing my sigh, Ring straightened up with a resolute expression.

Ring: So you had a fight with Nica? Kate: Huh? How did you... Ring: Last night I saw Nica looking troubled for the first time in a long time. Ring: I asked one of the maids and she said it was because he had spoken with you, so I guessed something must have happened between you two.

I gave Ring a strained smile.

Kate: It's my fault. I didn't consider his feelings and tried to lecture him when, in reality, I didn't know what he'd been through. Thinking back on it, I started to feel down once again.

Ring: Nica doesn't usually let his emotions show often, it's pretty rare.

Ring looked toward me, then away as he spoke.

Ring: And...he looked a bit lonely.

Lonely...

I don't know if it was because we had talked about Nica's past, or if he had something else on his mind. But if Ring, who's lived his entire life with Nica, says he looked lonely, that has to mean something.

Ring: I think Nica probably regrets what happened just as much as you do. Kate: ...You really think so? Ring: Yeah, it seems so. Ring: So I'm sure you both will reconcile just fine.

Ring gave me a soft, encouraging smile, and I felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders.

I'll apologize to Nica when I get back.

Kate: Ring, thank you— Ring: Nica is amazing. He's clever and can befriend almost anyone. He's also very skilled, so there's almost nothing he can't do.

For some reason, Ring began to talk about Nica's good points out of nowhere.

Ring: We were trying to figure out a problem the other day, and he solved it in an instant.

Ring started to beam brightly.

Kate: I-I see. Ring: Nica's always the first to help me, and I'm proud to be his brother.

Suddenly, I remembered what Monica had told me.

Nica has always protected Ring.

That probably hasn't changed even now.

To Nica, Ring has always been his family, and I'm sure that hasn't changed for Ring either.

But then, why don't the two of them plan out their happiness together?

To claim you'll be the happiest person in the world sounds like such a selfish thing. After that, Ring continued to tell me even more about Nica's merits. Though, he seemed to look increasingly worried.

Ring: ...But at some point, Nica's smile started to change. Ring: Like he couldn't smile from the heart anymore.

As I gave it some thought, Ring continued to speak.

Ring: I'd like to know why, but...I can't seem to figure out what it is. Ring: But Nica looks like he's having fun when he's with you. Ring: You surprise him, you make him laugh...and I feel like when he's with you, he smiles like how he used to. Ring: Honestly, I...I envy that.

Ring's knuckles turned white as he clenched his fists, staring at his lap. Seeing that, I couldn't help but be honest with him as well.

Kate: I'm envious of you too, Ring. Ring: Huh...? Kate: I don't understand Nica as well as you do. I'm afraid I'll say something that hurts him, and I feel like I'll never know how he feels deep down.

Now it was my turn to lace my fingers together tight.

Ring: Even though I've been with Nica since birth, I don't understand everything about him.

I looked at Ring with a start as he spoke.

Ring: I think you're much closer to Nica than me, now.

When I vehemently denied it, Ring gave a hearty laugh and said perhaps our feelings were much more aligned than we thought.

Ring's mission tonight was to eliminate the targets obstructing Vogel, right?

But the carriage dropped us off at—

Contrary to my surprise, Ring continued ahead with cautious steps.

Kate: ...Ring, what was the briefing of the mission again?

In that moment, the only word that floated to the forefront of my mind was "Haus."

If Monica grew up in Haus, then the other two with her must have come from there as well.

They're all people who know of Nica and Ring's past.

There was a nauseous feeling bubbling up at the back of my throat. I glanced up at Ring as he recited the names of the targets.

Ring: Our targets this time are Marc, Tobias, and Monica Hoffmann. Ring: They have to be eliminated. Kate: Ah...

It felt as though I had been bludgeoned, my head was pounding. And in the next moment a man rushed at me, sword brandished high. Ring drew his sword, the discordant sound of metal clanging loudly in the empty halls as he blocked the blow.

???: It's been awhile, Ring! Ring: M-Marc!

Ring was pushed back little by little with each onslaught of attacks from the man he had called Marc.

Marc: Been a long time since I last saw someone from my childhood. You remember, right!? Marc: We were together so long, in that shithole called "Haus!" Ring: !

Marc took advantage of Ring's shock at the mention of Haus. A swift blow sending Ring skidding down the hall.

Kate: Ring! ???: There you are. Kate: Huh!?

A voice that wasn't Marc's echoed from behind me. Before I could so much as turn my head, I was lifted off the ground.

Kate: Wha...!

The man who had slung me over his shoulder had taken me to one of the rooms in what felt like an instant.

Kate: Ack—

And was tossed unceremoniously to the hardwood floor, landing hard.

Tobias: I'm going to help Marc. Monica: Take care of yourself, Tobias.

The man named Tobias left the room before I could so much as blink.

Monica: I had my suspicions when I spoke with you, but it seems like you're affiliated with Vogel after all.

When I looked up at her, Monica seemed to have a skeptical look on her face, smiling at me.

Kate: Why would you...?

Before I could even make sense of what was happening, Monica grabbed me just below the jaw and hauled me up with a force so strong that it was hard to believe she was even human. My jaw creaked under the pressure.

Monica: Surely you remember what we talked about yesterday...about how Haus is the worst kind of facility? Running all kinds of experimentations.

Monica's eyes smoldered with fury.

Monica: While we were there, Nica used his powers to force us into the experiments meant for his brother!

Monica: Because of that my life is ruined! I'm an abomination that's caught between human and monster!!

Kate: !

I started at the way her voice grew frantic and anguished.

Monica: We could make Nica happy if we took over for his brother, right? We hadn't even known that each experiment would depend on your ability, so we took the fall for it.

Monica: You've got experience with that, surely. You've had to have been toyed with by him at some point too, right?

I couldn't say anything to that, so Monica continued, even more enraged. She recounted on how weary she had become after all the experiments she endured due to Nica's power. And how she had vowed to get back at him for her entire life. She had been unable to come across him while in Germany, so she, Marc and Tobias had moved to the United Kingdom to better hone their skills. All of it was the result of Nica betraying others' trust in him.

What Nica did as a child to protect Ring has come back to haunt him.

Monica: We were failures. Meant to die from the very beginning, I'd come to terms with that. My life didn't matter. Monica: But those twins were different. Their lives were safe because of their innate ability. Monica: But Nica still had to go and ruin our lives!

There was a loud bang as Ring, bound by rope, was thrown into the room against the wall next to me.

Kate: Ring!! Ring: Damn it...where did you even get that kind of ability...! Monica: No matter how special you might think you are, no one can take on more than one monstrosity by themselves.

Monica's eyes moved from me to Ring in disgust before her gaze drew back to me.

Monica: If you can lure Nica Schwartz to me, that might just save your life. Monica: Not a bad deal, no?

Her grip started to cut off my airways. Drawing even one breath became a struggle as her fingers squeezed.

Ring: K-Kate!

Even so, I...

Kate: Did you...think I'd agree to that...!

I writhed and twisted my weakening body enough to loosen her grip and slip from her grasp.

Monica: Ugh! You've been tricked by him, haven't you!?

I glared at the trio, coughing and wheezing as I drew in each precious breath. No matter how much I may hate what Nica's done, I have beliefs that I won't just outright abandon.

Kate: The things Nica had put you through are unforgivable. Kate: But that doesn't make it okay to try to get revenge on him now! Monica: You...

Monica grabbed at me again, seizing me by the collar of my dress and pressing a blade to my throat.

Even with the pinch of cold metal digging into my skin and the warm trickle of blood running down my neck, I didn't relent.

Kate: Doing this won't erase the things that happened to you! Monica: Shut up! What do you know!? Ring: Stop it!!

As Monica pulled the knife back, I screwed my eyes shut, bracing for the pain. But instead, I heard a gunshot—

Nica: I don't recall giving others permission to play with my toy.

When I opened my eyes, I saw Nica, who had fired a shot that knocked the knife from Monica's hand.

Monica: Nica Schwartz...!

He stood in the door, gun held firm, with an icy gaze as he stared Monica down. The moment he stepped a foot in the door, all three of the Hoffmann's pulled their weapons. Ring, taking advantage of Nica's distraction, managed to get out of his restraints and come to my aid.

Ring: Are you alright? Kate: Yes, thank you...

Seeing the state of my neck, Ring pressed a handkerchief to the open wound. Seeing this, Nica's eyes turned even more frigid in the low light of the room.

Nica: Ring. Get her out of here. Ring: What? Nica: Dari's orders. Your big brother will take things from here. Nica: You're both getting in the way, so go on, off you go.

Ring seemed confused, but upon hearing it was Darius' orders, lifted me into his arms.

Tobias: You're not going anywhere!

Ring was getting ready to jump from the window with me in-hand when Tobias tried to charge us. Just then, shot was fired.

Kate: Nica!!

The last thing I saw before we jumped from the window was Nica's troubled smile.

Nica had fired a single shot that pierced Tobias' heart.

Tobias: Urgh...! Marc: You...! Ghh! Monica: Tobias!! Marc!!

Nica turned and shot Marc just as quickly in the same manner. Monica rushed over to them both, but by then, their eyes were vacant, ended swiftly.

Monica: No. No no no, you're kidding me! Wake up...!! Nica: You came here to take things from Vogel, but you got taken from instead, tragic really.

Glancing down at Monica with a biting laugh, Nica aimed the muzzle of his pistol at her head.

Monica: ...You think I'll just let you do this?

Monica grabbed the barrel of the gun, using the leverage of the grip to throw Nica's body with a great force.

Nica: !?

His body slammed into the back of an open wardrobe, crumpling instantly. Monica stood over him with a renewed anger in her eyes.

Nica: Tsk, what's with the brutish strength...? Monica: You know exactly what kind of failure you've made me into!

She threw his gun aside and slammed a fist down.

Monica: If you hadn't used your damned ability, things would never have come to this. Monica: You ruined our lives!

Colossal tears began to spill from Monica's eyes, sliding down her cheeks as she beat her fists against Nica with overwhelming force. But Nica didn't resist.

Monica: Why aren't you resisting...? Why...!?

Nica: I was just remembering something a foolish robin told me once...

His cheeks had begun to swell, cuts and bruises taking shape on his face with each blow...but Nica simply let Monica vent out her anger.

Nica: You can beat me until you're satisfied. If that's what makes you feel better, I'll accept it. Nica: But tormenting me now doesn't change a thing of the past. Monica: What...?

Seeing Nica's vacant stare, Monica glanced back at the corpses of her two brothers.*

Monica: If you don't resist, that's like...saying all the time we spent suffering was for nothing.

As she voiced her thoughts, she took Nica's pistol into one hand—

Monica: How is that any different than saying my entire life until now was a waste...?

With a single shot, Monica's body crumpled against the armoire's door, blood pooling around her. Nica let out a breath as he leaned against the back wall of it. As Monica's body fell, her arm landed against the door, closing it and trapping Nica inside. At that moment, Nica's caught a glimpse of the familiar scar along the length of her arm, lake blue eyes widened in recognition.

Nica: I was wondering who Monica was...so it was you. Nica: I didn't know because I only ever remembered our numbers.

The closet door fell shut.

Nica, where are you!?

Ring had escaped out the window with me, but I couldn't stay still after I heard more gunshots. I ignored the warnings from Ring and ran back inside the building. Ring, who was chasing after me, ran into a neighbor that had reported the incident after hearing me screaming 'no.' He told me to meet up with Nica and leave, so he could lead the police to the scene to avoid suspicion. We had split up from there.

Kate: !

When I returned to the room that I was taken to at the end of the hall, I found three bodies covered in enough blood to know what had become of them. My tried my best to keep from collapsing, my legs trembling with each step as I walked further into the room. Eventually, I heard a noise coming from the wardrobe where Monica was. Approaching with caution, I peered between the tiny crack between the double door—

I managed to pry the door open slightly with all of my strength. My eyes landed on Nica, covered in cuts and bruises.

Nica: Ahh, why did you have to come back? Kate: Ni...ca...

The faint light of the moon through the window behind me cast a line down his face.

It looked just like the trail of a tear.

Nica: It's pointless for me to try and take a break by myself if someone comes to get me. Kate: What on earth happened to you?

I struggled to hold back tears from how worn down he looked, frazzled beyond belief at the state he was in. But Nica seemed calm.

Nica: I just let her hit me before she died. I thought it would make her feel better. Kate: I came here to stop that from happening to you...!

His eyes narrowed as he looked like he wanted to tell me something, grasping my hand.

Nica: Could you close the curtains?

His grip was so weak.

Nica: The light you give off is so bright...it hurts my eyes so much I could laugh...

The sight of him so weakened was so agonizing that all I could do was hug him.

𝐟𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐫 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬: *: I opted to flavor the text of this as Monica considering Tobias and Marc family with how they interact. I feel like for the knowledge given about them that they seemed to be a found family unit parallel to what Darius considers Vogel to be. If you're curious about Darius' 'family' or a deeper insight into how the suitors from Vogel came together, I recommend reading this translation and this one respectively for more information.

[PARTY VENUE - GARDEN - NIGHT]

Nica: Even if it’s just me, that’s fine too.

N: Things like love and romance are like specks of dust to me.

N: As is trust and expectations— those can vanish in a blink of an eye.

Step by step, he approached me before pulling my hand.

Kate: Wah—

I lost my balance and was about to fall when a hand wrapped around my waist to support me, and before I realized it we were in a dance posture.

He started to lead with his steps, twirling me around.

Nica: I tricked many and played their hearts...and like the fools they were they’d spin round and round in the palm of my hand.

N: What a joke, huh.

He spun me around over and over like a ballerina, causing my vision to spin as I fell unceremoniously on his chest.

Kate: How can you do such cruel things?

Leaning my head into his chest, I fixed my unfocused gaze to the ground.

Nica: ...Our Curse is the Black Swan from The Swan Lake, Kate.

N: The prince swore his love to the Black Swan, the daughter of the devil herself...having mistaken her for the real princess.

N: And so, the real princess, the White Swan, was betrayed.

My vision finally steadied as I lifted my head.

Nica was illuminated by the moonlight as he looked down at me with a serious expression.

Nica: Be it love or romance, they’re all nothing but illusions.

N: And I just wield those illusions and continue to play around with love. All to become the happiest in the world.

N: All so...I don’t get swept up in this fate.

I couldn’t turn my eyes away from that uncharacteristically earnest look he wore, but then we heard voices.

Tall and gorgeous lady: Mister Nica and Miss Kate, or so I recall...are they truly a married couple, I have to wonder?

Lady in purple: I did see the wife always some distance away from her partner...perhaps they share a strained relationship.

Tall and gorgeous lady: So she wasn’t immediately taken with such a smooth-mannered man?

Hearing the two’s voices giggling from the sidewalk, we turned to each other.

Nica: Behold— the results of your god awful acting skills.

Kate: Urgh...

(It’s utterly frustrating but I can’t argue back because that is indeed true...!)

Unlike me, whose head was riling up, Nica stood opposite of me with a look that he had thought of something as he grinned—

Nica: Since we’re at this point now, how about we give them a good show of just how well we get along as a married couple?

Kate: Huh...mm—

The next moment, Nica’s lips suddenly covered my own.

His tongue made its way inside the opening of my mouth, taking and twining mine with his as I tried frantically to escape.

Kate: Wh— ...uh...mm—

Our mouths made a wet sound, and as saliva dripped from the corner of my lips, I went numb from pleasure.

I tried to turn away, but I couldn’t run with how he was holding the back of my head.

(I can’t move at all—)

I tried my best to push on his chest, but Nica’s body didn’t move an inch.

Kate: No...haa—

[BLACK]

But the kiss felt so good, I no longer had the energy to push against him...

And I got swept up in his kiss, when a pang shot through my heart.

How was he this good at kissing? Just how many women’s lips did he steal?

Thoughts like these filled my mind to the brim, only to be pulled back into the pleasure, and once again my mind would wander.

[PARTY VENUE - GARDEN]

Nica’s hand lifted my dress before starting to stroke my thighs—

Kate: Ngh...ah...

He traced his finger between my legs over my undergarments, going back and forth, over and over.

The kisses made that area wet, so even that deliberate stimulus tingled.

Kate: Nica— don’t...mm—

Nica: Hah...you’re not exactly convincing, seeing a kiss is all it takes for you to become like this.

Our lips parted, a silver thread hanging between us.

His fingers slipped inside my undergarments and entered into me as he pushed down on my swollen bud.

[SCREEN FLASHES WHITE]

Kate: Uah...!

Nica: I already know all your good spots, and that you like it when I push down and move like this.

Kate: Sto— ah...no...!

His thumb, which had been pushing down on my bud, moved left and right. My legs trembled from the almost numbing pleasure, and I clung onto him.

But Nica showed no sign of stopping as he buried his fingers inside and added onto the stimulus from there—

Nica: And when I go deeper inside...

[SCREEN FLASHES WHITE]

Kate: —Ha, ngh!

The next moment I came undone, and with my legs giving out, he held onto me tight.

Nica: See, you came just like that.

He scooped a bit of the nectar that dripped down my thighs before lifting his sensually soaked finger in front of my face.

Nica: So? Should I go even deeper?

In the midst of my flickering vision, I mustered the last of my rationale to shake my head.

But my insides continued to tingle, seeking out those nectar-soaked fingers, illuminated by the moonlight.

But then—

All of a sudden, I heard small cries from the sidewalk, and I saw the women running off, their faces completely red.

Nica: Well, that’s dull of them. They could’ve stayed and watched to the end.

He laughed as though to make fun of them, and having found my composure again, I leaned my head back as far as I could take it—

[SCREEN FLASHES WHITE]

Nica: —OW!!!

—and headbutted him on the forehead.

Kate: Ohh. My god. I cannot believe the likes of you!!!

I was trembling with rage, and in response Nica blinked up at me, but then like a boy he lowered his eyes and stifled a laugh.

Nica: Hah, did you seriously just headbutt me...God, I can’t with you...

That smile was so bright, I couldn’t help but be drawn to them for a moment as my heart skipped a beat.

(Ahh, I...even after all I’ve been through, my feelings for this person can’t fade away.)

I fell for the kind Nica. But that kindness was fake, and the real Nica was the worst man.

And yet, my heart still sang at the sight of him.

Even though I was betrayed, even though he played with my feelings, a part of me was attracted to him.

And it was because of that, I wanted to probe into what had struck me as strange.

Kate: ...No matter how much money and power you gain, trust and expectations aren’t things you can buy.

K: The only thing that awaits you by continuing to do this is your own downfall.

K: You’ll end up getting stabbed by someone you’ve played with, before you can become the world’s happiest man.

Nica: Great, couldn’t ask for more.

Kate: You’ll lose the people who protect and trust you then.

Nica: Not that I had any in the first place. Such is my life.

In order to gain money and power, he continued to play other people, deceiving them.

If he continued doing so, someday he would get punished for it.

And above all—

Kate: And is that life “happy” to you?

Up until now, Nica had been smiling, but then his expression warped into discomfort as he drew away from me.

Nica: You can think what you want, but could you quit swinging around that sense of justice to lecture me?

N: Toys are there for me to use and enjoy. That’s all they need to be.

Kate: Nica—

He turned away, and I reached out for him.

But Nica brushed away my hand, turning around to say...

Nica: I am happy. More than you’ll ever know.

But nowhere on his face did it look happy—

Kate: ...Then don’t make that face. It doesn’t look happy at all.

For some reason, a droplet fell, tracing along my cheek.

[BLACK]

Nica didn’t say anything, only turning his back to me and walking off.

t. b. c ⸝⸝

masterlist 🍒 ┊ ko-fi ☕️ ┊ comms 🤍

“Haus.”

It was a facility that had existed long before Germany ever came to be.

Countless people — both adults and children were confined there, and what took place within its walls was nothing short of brutal experimentation.

In that place, where no one was treated as human, the experiments claimed lives endlessly.

The sound of someone’s screams was an everyday occurrence.

Monica: I still have scars on my arms that never healed.

Monica: The researchers inflicted wounds on several children to test the differences in their self-healing abilities.

Kate: That’s… that’s horrible.

Monica: That was just normal in that place.

(Nica was born and raised in such a horrific environment.)

As I was still reeling from the shock, Monica continued.

Monica: But those twins were different from the rest of us. They were given special treatment.

Monica: They were always together. No matter how painful things became, there was always someone at their side — a family member who mirrored them completely.

Monica: Even when they were hurt or suffering, they had a blood-related sibling who stayed close, sharing that pain.

Monica: That was something the other children couldn’t help but envy.

Although Nica and Ring received treatment that set them apart from the other children, they were still subjected to the same experiments.

Each time they were hurt, it seemed they would cling to each other, enduring it together with all their strength.

Monica: Nica was always protecting Ring. He never once doubted that guarding his younger brother was his role.

Monica: He used every means possible… just to keep his brother safe.

(Every means possible…)

When Nica was a child, did he already use his abilities the way he does now to protect Ring?

Even if he did, there was only so much a small, fragile body could do.

And yet, one day, it seems those days came to an abrupt end.

Because of the arrival of a man clad in pure white, like an angel… most likely Darius.

Monica: Only the two of them were taken away by that angel-like man. The rest of us were left behind.

Monica: Soon after that, the facility was shut down. With nowhere else to go, we were taken in by people connected to it.

Monica: I never saw the two of them again after that.

At some point, the light of dusk had begun to spill into the lounge.

Monica: …It must have been a shock.

Monica let out a quiet breath as she spoke to me, still at a loss for words.

Just imagining Nica as a child, desperately trying to protect his younger brother in that experimental facility called Haus, made my chest ache.

(Is that why Nica became so fixated on money and power…?)

He had an agonizing past — there were days when he was powerless, unable even to resist.

Maybe that’s why Nica tries to grasp for visible wealth and symbols of power now.

If he could obtain all the money and authority, then surely nothing like the past would ever happen again.

(This is all just speculation, though…)

And so Nica—

My chest tightened painfully, and I bit down on my lip.

Monica: …It’s a cruel story, isn’t it.

After that, she didn’t say anything more.

Still weighed down by that heaviness, I parted ways with Monica and stepped into the tavern.

Roger, who had been sitting toward the back, noticed me and raised a hand lightly.

Roger: You look awful. You’d be better off washing it down with some booze.

Kate: Do you really think I can wash it down…?

Roger: If you drink until you black out, maybe.

I slumped forward onto the table and ordered a beer, something I normally wouldn’t have.

Kate: …You heard everything, didn’t you?

Roger: Yeah. All of it.

I took a sip of the beer that had arrived.

The fizz of the carbonation lightened my gloomy heart, if only a little.

Roger: …You’ve got the look of someone who’s learned a past that was never meant to be known.

Kate: Yes. That’s exactly it.

I slumped back down onto the table and let out another sigh.

Until I met Monica, I never once imagined there was a story like this.

What kind of place had it been? What kind of childhood had he lived through?

I had pictured him and Ring sharing an ordinary, peaceful childhood, but the cruelty and heavy weight of his past seemed to mock that thought outright.

(I feel guilty for prying into his past so carelessly. It was led by nothing but my own curiosity.)

But I know I won’t be able to stay silent about this.

If it’s Nica, any secret I try to hide would be exposed in an instant.

There are only two paths waiting for me: tell the truth myself, or have it torn out of me.

(What if Crown finds out about that because of this?)

Just as I was thinking that maybe I should be honest about everything—

Young Man with a Bottle: Huh? Monica’s not here today?!

I lifted my head as I overheard a young man, holding a bottle of alcohol talking to one of the staff.

Middle-aged Man at the Counter: Shame the poster girl isn’t here.

Young Man with a Bottle: I only come ’cause Monica’s around.

Roger: The girl you were talking to is basically this place’s poster girl. Seems like plenty of customers come here just for her.

Kate: I’d heard she worked here, but I didn’t realize it was like that.

(Well… she is bright and beautiful, after all.)

I listened while holding my beer, when one customer, looking fed up, cut into the conversation.

Man Drinking Whiskey: Don’t bother. That girl’s bad news, she gets around with a lot of blokes.

The man drinking whiskey went on.

Man Drinking Whiskey: She’s living with two men in the same flat, you know. A good woman wouldn’t do something like that.

Middle-aged Man at the Counter: True enough. I see her walking arm in arm with them all the time.

Young Man with a Bottle: N-no way… Monica..?

I drank with Roger, watching the young man slump in disappointment.

Kate: They seem to be from the same hometown, though.

Roger: She never said what their relationship was. But no matter who they are, people’ll always turn it into gossip.

After draining his beer, Roger ordered another.

Roger: Still, I can’t help wondering why the three of them would come all the way from Germany.

Roger: Or am I just imagining things, thinking there has to be some kind of reason?

Kate: I thought the same. That there might be… something behind it.

Roger: Yeah. As long as it’s nothing bad.

Roger: They went out of their way to come to a foreign country and work here. Doesn’t feel like an ordinary reason.

Roger: There aren’t that many immigrants from Germany to begin with. You can only get here by ship, and it’s a long way at that.

Kate: If ships are the only way to get there, it must cost a pretty penny.

Roger: But somehow, I don’t get the impression Monica and the others have that sort of money.

The only way to travel between Germany and England was by sea.

Tickets for those large ships were priced far beyond the reach of an ordinary person like me.

(Which is why normally only nobles or important figures could make the trip…)

And yet, Monica and the others came to England and now work in a tavern.

They don’t look like nobles or dignitaries, they seem like completely ordinary people.

Kate: Maybe the people who took them in after the facility paid for it?

Roger: Even so, what stays with me is that all three of them came together.

I couldn’t help but share his doubt.

(Why would three ordinary people come all the way from Germany?)

And on top of that—

Kate: Could it have something to do with the fact that they grew up in Haus?

Roger: ……..

Roger crossed his arms and fell into thought.

Kate: Roger?

When I spoke, he snapped out of it and unclasped his arms.

Roger: …Sorry, it’s nothing.

Still looking somewhat unsettled, Roger drained his beer and called over a waiter.

The bill arrived, but the amount listed on it was staggering.

Roger: Well then….

Kate: Um… uh Roger? There must be some sort of a mistake—

As I stared in shock, Roger grinned, lifting the corners of his mouth and sliding the bill toward me.

Roger: You’re treating me, aren’t you, Kate?

(I’ve gotten myself into a terrible situation…!)

Clutching my now sadly lightened wallet, I walked the way back to my room, half in tears.

Kate: Sure I said I’d treat you, but I never imagined you’d drink that much…!

I paid the bill for about twenty beers and a whole bottle of whiskey as promised.

Roger smiled and asked me to invite him out again sometime……

(…Inviting him again might be fine, but I’m never making a promise to pay again.)

Clutching the straps of my bag tightly, I continued walking, thinking I’d never make that mistake again.

Then suddenly, Nica appeared from around the corner.

Nica: Oh, so you went off drinking with some other guy leaving me behind. You’re so cruel, Spatzi.

Kate: Nica…

As always, he showed up and moved close to me.

Nica: This is just awful, I feel so lonely, you know? You’re my toy, so shouldn’t you be waiting in your room till I call you?

Kate: That’s asking a bit much…

An unfamiliar scent of cigarettes drifted from the arm he’d wrapped around my shoulders.

That alone told me he’d been somewhere and had met someone.

I lowered my gaze. Over and over, the things Monica had told me surfaced in my mind, only to fade again.

Nica: Why’re you looking down like that? Ah, don’t tell me you’re drunk?

He asked in a light, casual tone, so I hesitated to speak.

(But I can’t keep going like this without saying anything.)

What I felt most strongly was my own dishonesty, and I lowered my head.

Kate: I’m sorry… there’s something I need to apologize to you for, Nica.

Nica: Are you talking about the time you slapped me?

Kate: No, not that…

Nica: That really hurt, you know. You left a handprint on my cheek.

Kate: Well I’m sorry about that… but no, that’s not what I mean!

I did feel bad about slapping him, but somehow that wasn’t what I needed to apologize for.

Clearing my throat, I faced him properly.

Kate: Today, I spoke with a woman named Monica. Do you remember her?

Nica: Who’s that? I don’t think I met anyone by that name since coming to this country.

He seemed to have no recollection of her at all, but the next words changed the atmosphere.

Kate: She’s someone who grew up in the same facility as you… Haus.

For a moment, his eyes widened, and the mouth he’d just opened snapped shut.

Kate: She’s an old acquaintance of yours and offered to tell me things from your past… so I went to hear her out today.

Kate: I ended up hearing about what happened back then… I’m truly sorry.

Kate: Monica said… that back then, you were always protecting Ring.

Nica didn’t reply. Just his silence made the air in the hallway gradually feel heavier.

Kate: …This might just be my speculation. But—

When I looked up, his beautiful eyes held not a single glimmer of light.

Kate: Is your obsession with money and power because of that time?

Kate: Because you need it to protect Ring?

The moment I spoke, his expression changed completely.

And then—

Kate: !?

Nica slammed his foot against the hallway wall, the sound echoing loudly.

I trembled in shock, and he looked down at me with a coldness I had never seen on his face before.

Nica: Did you have fun digging into someone else’s past without permission?

Nica: You go around spouting speculation — did it never occur to you that this is something I don’t want to revisit?

Kate: I-I just—

Nica: What could you possibly understand?

Struck by his sharp words, I couldn’t bring myself to reply.

Nica: Fine. I’ve held plenty of people’s secrets myself, now I’m just on the receiving end.

Nica: But why did you go out of your way to tell me? Were you trying to feel sorry?

Nica: Your honesty and inability to lie might be good qualities.

Nica: But to me… they’re unbelievably annoying and irritating.

He planted his feet on the ground, a look of pure disdain crossing his face.

Nica: I’ll tell this just one more time, you fool.

Nica: Money and power are easy guides to happiness. You could call them a strong ‘shield.’

He ran a hand through his hair and slid it into the pocket of his trousers.

Nica: I’m gonna become the happiest man in the world.

Nica: For that, it doesn’t matter how much people scorn me or point fingers at me.

Then he passed right by me.

Nica: Though I seriously doubt a properly-raised young lady like you could understand that.

His footsteps faded, and the hallway grew empty.

I stood frozen in place, able to do nothing but stare at the carpet beneath my feet.

I hadn’t meant to hurt him.

Maybe staying silent would have been best.

But I wasn’t skilled enough to pretend I didn’t know.

Kate: I’m such an idiot…

After being played with and hurt, pain and sorrow had swelled inside me, along with a rage so fierce it felt unforgivable.

I had blamed him for it all.

But then, the cold wind sweeping through the empty hallway made the truth hit me painfully.

Now… I had done something just as cruel to him.

[Chapter 12] [Masterlist]