The Tyrant’s Last Doll

rely come from having formed a close relationship.

If I am not mistaken, nine months from now, the female main character will appear, and I don’t have the energy left in me to expect anything from anyone.
I am just so exhausted.
All that’s left for me to do is do my best as a doll and leave the palace soundly after everything’s done.
Wasn’t that the future I’ve always dreamt for myself?

It surely was, but something doesn’t feel right.

Then, my attention panned towards the transformation bracelet dangling over my wrist.
It was the item that changed my appearance and without much thinking, I impulsively took the bracelet off.
I glanced at the small mirror perched beside the bed and under the faint moonlight, my dark blonde hair turned back to platinum, and my deep green eyes became blue.
This is my reflection I haven’t seen for three whole months.
And for some reason, seeing my real reflection made me feel a little less frustrated.

I clasped both of his hands and leaned my head against it, muttering to myself.
“Don’t get sick.”

Even though I felt uncomfortable being treated as Liliana’s stand in doll, I never wanted him to suffer like this.
It was rather contradictory, but what am I supposed to do?

Gradually, my eyes drifted close from exhaustion.

***

“Iona.”

A soft caress patted my head gently.
It brushed my tresses in a leisurely manner while I was still in the midst of my sleep.
After it went on for a while, I slowly opened my eyes to my surroundings.

“Iona.” I turned my head to look at him, seeing him seated on the bed.
His head was tilted at an angle as he looked at me with a small smile on his face. I wonder what time he woke up. The distressed face I saw before I slept was now gone.
I was so glad seeing him in a much better state that I didn’t realize the smile forming on my lips.
I never thought I would feel this relieved.

“I’m glad you woke up.”

The emperor’s eyes grew wide at my words.
It was only then when I realized what I just said that I hastily covered my mouth but the emperor pulled my hand just as quickly, making the bracelet fall to the ground.

“Huh?”

Suddenly, he leaned his face closer to me.
I didn’t have the chance to react and before I knew it, his hands were cupping my cheeks and hair, closing the distance between us.

“Your Maj—!” His warm and soft lips pressed against my own.
Dazed, my eyes fluttered close as I let myself succumb to his touch.