In the following 6 months, which marked the two-year anniversary of our first encounter, Takahiko reappeared in his usual fashion. However, this time, I noticed a hint of sadness in his eyes. I couldn't help but wonder if something had occurred during his recent journey. Determined to seize the opportunity, I swiftly approached him before the other waitresses could take his order. The six months of not seeing him had been agonizing, and I resolved to go all out in my approach. I wanted him to sense the void I had felt, even if it meant expressing it through playful banter.
As I delivered his order to the kitchen master, I discreetly observed Takahiko from the kitchen. To my surprise, Sir Geoffrey took the initiative to approach him, which was unusual. Normally, Sir Geoffrey would come, place his order, exchange a few words with me, and then leave. Intrigued by their conversation, I seized the opportunity when the kitchen master finished preparing the meals and brought them to Takahiko's table. As I approached, I overheard Sir Geoffrey's words.
"According to her, the reason she decided to retire at the age of 25 was due to the intense competition among the courtesans, particularly when young newcomers joined the establishment. I happened to be one of her clients at the time, fortunate enough to hear her grievances."
Huh? Why are you telling this to Takahiko?
"Several patrons who frequented this very tavern recognized Cordelia, and they made requests for her services during the night."
What?! That's not true!
"Isn't it against the city's laws to engage in that kind of service outside of registered brothels?" Takahiko replied, seemingly surprised.
This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.
Why do you speak about my past to Takahiko?
"Indeed, it is prohibited by the law. However, the law does not explicitly prohibit individuals from offering gifts to one another, does it?
What do you mean, Sir Geoffrey?
"On the surface, it appears as though these individuals are simply showering her with gifts to court her. But what transpires behind closed doors remains uncertain, as no concrete evidence can substantiate the nature of their interactions."
Why are you lying to Takahiko about me?!
I was taken aback by the realization that the person I considered my savior was the one revealing the secret I had desperately wanted to keep hidden.
In a state of panic, I felt the urge to throw the stew at the man who had once rescued me from that wretched place. But I fought to maintain my composure. With a trembling hand, I forcefully placed the stew that Takahiko had ordered on the table between them.
"Here is your order, Takahiko,"
Despite my best efforts to remain calm and remind myself of his past noble act, my perception of Sir Geoffrey as a savior began to crumble. I mustered the courage to speak my mind to him.
"Sir Geoffrey, I am eternally grateful to you for introducing me to this tavern,"
I seethed with silent rage! How could he dare speak about my past, twisting it with lies about who I am now! And to do it right in front of Takahiko, of all people!
"Nevertheless, I would greatly appreciate it if you refrained from spreading unfounded rumors about me to Takahiko." I continued to speak my mind while suppressing the anger that was ready to erupt from within my heart.
He didn't say anything, and I could see the fear in his eyes. He quickly got up and fled from the scene after bidding farewell to Takahiko.
Despair slowly seeped into my heart. I no longer cared about the consequences. I didn't even dare to meet Takahiko's gaze at that moment.
But then, his gentle voice pierced through the darkness, giving me a glimmer of hope.
"Do you want to talk after this, Cordelia?"
We arranged a time to meet, and I made up my mind to tell him everything. That includes Sir Geoffrey's secret. Now that he had broken our agreement, I felt no obligation to keep it any longer.