Chapter 561: She's Living Rent Free

Standing on the balcony of my room in the castle, I leaned against the railing, the cool night breeze ruffling my hair as I gazed out at the sprawling gardens below. The moon hung high in the sky, casting a silvery glow over the landscape, and the stars twinkled like distant diamonds. The sounds of laughter and music drifted up from the courtyard, where guests had gathered for the evening festivities, celebrating the arrival of spring.

But Matsuyukine… She had a way of weaving into my thoughts, an uninvited guest that refused to leave. I couldn't shake the image of her beaming smile when she handed me the ticket, her eyes sparkling with excitement. She had been so eager for me to come, and the thought of disappointing her tugged at something deep within me.