A Return Full of Surprises

Two days had passed since the chaotic yet heartwarming night in the infirmary. After saying goodbye to Charlotte and Olivia, I decided to return home for a few days. When I informed my parents that some of my friends would be accompanying me, they arranged an extra carriage without question—though the glint in Mother's eyes made it clear she knew exactly who I meant.

Now, inside the luxurious moving carriage, the soft clatter of wheels was the only sound that occasionally interrupted the chatter from the carriage ahead.

Layla had practically glued herself to my arm the moment we sat down.

"Noah, do you need a lap pillow if you can't sit for too long?" she asked sweetly, her golden eyes twinkling with mischief.

"Layla, I'm healed now. They used an elixir on my body. There's no problem anymore, really," I replied, trying to maintain my composure.

"I see... No problem in your body, huh?" she licked her lips while her eyes shamelessly scanned my frame. "Hehe..."

A shiver ran down my spine.

"You pervert. What are you planning now?" Scarlett, sitting across from us, narrowed her eyes at Layla.

"I'm not a pervert. I just express my love honestly. And as for what I'm planning—" she leaned in closer to me with a devilish grin—"that's a secret."

Lyra sat near the window, arms crossed, eyes looking out with a calm and indifferent gaze. She didn't react to their argument. In fact, she had been oddly quiet the whole ride, only responding when spoken to and clearly trying to stay out of their antics.

Just like that, the trip continued—with food breaks, occasional stretching stops, and hours of banter and teasing. Despite the tension, a strange sense of peace lingered in the air. It felt... warm.

Three days passed like a blur.

At last, we reached the estate.

The carriage came to a smooth stop in front of the Von Augustus Mansion. The driver quickly opened the door.

I stepped out first, stretching slightly. The air here was fresher, calmer—like it hadn't changed since I left.

I turned and offered my hand like a proper gentleman. Scarlett took it with a light blush, followed by Layla, who giggled and clung to my arm the moment she stepped down, and finally Lyra, who accepted the gesture only out of courtesy.

Before us stood a neat line of butlers and maids, ready to greet us.

There was admiration and curiosity in the eyes of the men—and flushed cheeks on the women as they observed the girls around me.

"Welcome back, Master and Madam. I hope your journey was not too taxing," the head butler said respectfully.

"Thank you for taking care of the house in our absence, Sebastian," my mother replied with grace.

My father merely nodded, his arms behind his back as always.

"It's an honor to serve you, Madam," Sebastian bowed.

Then he turned to me with a soft smile. "It's good to see you back, Young Master. You've grown quite a lot. But... what happened to your hair and eyes? You look rather different."

"Ah... The changes happened while I was sleeping, apparently. But nothing dangerous, I assure you."

"That's a relief."

Before I could continue, a familiar voice echoed from the mansion's grand door.

"Oh my, our little Noah has brought home so many brides. Looks like the academy turned you into quite the player, hmm?"

There she was—Maya, our head maid.

Beautiful, mature, with soft brown hair and sharp black eyes. Dressed in her maid uniform, she stood confidently, hands on her waist, and a teasing smile on her lips. She'd taken care of me like her own son—especially when I was crushed after Charlotte's rejection.

She was always there.

"Indeed," my father surprisingly agreed with her, smirking just slightly.

"Oh, Maya, there are actually two more. Our Noah has become far too charming. We need to keep a close watch on him, or he'll bring the entire academy next time," my mother laughed.

Maya gasped dramatically.

"Two more? Where are they? Why didn't you bring them?!"

Not angry about the number… just that they didn't come, huh?

"Aunt Maya, they're just friends. They had duties to attend to at the academy, so they couldn't come. These three came just to rest for a bit," I explained, trying to sound calm.

The girls visibly stiffened. Layla pouted. Scarlett looked away. Lyra… stayed indifferent.

"Let me introduce them," I continued. "This is Scarlett, this is Lyra, and you already know Layla."

"Welcome, Lady Scarlett, Lady Lyra. Call me Aunt Maya or just Maya. And Lady Silvermoon, it's been a while."

Scarlett and Lyra greeted her politely, while Layla immediately stepped forward.

"Aunt Maya! I missed your cupcakes so much!"

"Is that so? Then I'll make sure you eat as many as you want while you're here," Maya smiled warmly.

"Yay!"

After the warm greetings, we all headed inside.

The mansion was just as I remembered—serene and elegant. No excessive decorations, no overwhelming designs. Just beautiful architecture with a soft noble charm.

Scarlett and Lyra looked around with wide eyes, clearly taking in the sights. It was probably their first time in a high noble's house.

The maids led them to their rooms—each one just a few steps from mine.

Typical Maya.

Now, finally back in my room, I sank into the familiar comfort of my bed, staring at the ceiling.

Peace. For once.

I took a deep breath and smiled faintly.

"System. Show me my status."

[Ding!]