The Sun Shines Just Right; The Path Beyond Emperor Rank

Morning came especially early at the border outpost.

When the first ray of sunlight pierced the thin mist and fell across the crude wooden window, Seru was already awake.

She did not move, merely lying there quietly.

Listening to the steady breathing behind her, feeling the warmth of the hand around her waist.

So this was...

What it felt like to wake up in the arms of someone she loved.

The corner of Seru's mouth curved upward unconsciously. Carefully, she lifted Chiyo's hand, intending to rise without making a sound.

"Where are you going?"

A slightly lazy voice came from behind her. His arm tightened again, pulling her back into that warm embrace.

Seru's face immediately turned red.

"I-I'm going to prepare breakfast..."

"The outpost has cooks."

"Then I'll go inspect the area..."

"The patrol has already set out."

"..."

Seru was left speechless and could only allow herself to remain trapped in his embrace, her heart beating so fast it felt ready to leap from her chest.

Chiyo rested his chin in the hollow of her shoulder, his breath brushing against her ear, his voice still hoarse from sleep.

"Actually, ten years ago, when you came to Western Country for the third time.

I already knew that this little princess from Eastern Country was probably determined to stay in Western Country forever."

Seru's body stiffened, and she immediately punched him in embarrassment and irritation.

"You... you already knew back then that I..."

"Mm."

Chiyo chuckled softly.

"The look in your eyes was like you wanted to eat me alive."

"Brother Chiyo!"

Seru was so embarrassed that she wanted to break free, but he only held her tighter.

"And then?"

Chiyo continued, amusement in his voice.

"Every time you found an excuse to stay, every time you secretly watched from