Chapter 242: Rinella’s Destiny is Her Own (35)

The conversation with Senior Elsie occurred only after some time had passed.

It seemed like the new ‘reward’ had left Senior Elsie too stimulated, since she remained seated, breathing heavily for a considerable time after it was over.

Her cheeks were still flushed, either from the lingering effect of my actions or from the embarrassment at her dramatic reaction just moments before.

Nonetheless, it was adorable to see Senior Elsie tightly clutching the brim of her cone hat or even her attempt to hide her face by firmly pressing down the hat.

My heart urged me to pat her head immediately.

However, I sensed that Senior Elsie needed some time to compose herself, so I suppressed that urge for the moment.

I simply kept silent, observing her from the side.

Before we realized it, the morning sun had bathed the surroundings in its warm light.

Given that it was summer, even the early morning sunlight carried some heat. Luckily, the spot where Senior Elsie and I sat was shaded.

A few more minutes passed just like that.

At last, Senior Elsie finally began to speak.

Her voice was trembling slightly as she remained in a crouched position, clutching her knees.

“…I was bullied during my childhood… By my family.”

It was something I had heard before.

I had learned about Senior Elsie and Lupine’s troubled childhood when I drank with him.

Choosing to remain silent, I hoped it would make it easier for Senior Elsie to open up further.

Fortunately, her breathing had steadied somewhat, though whether it was due to my consideration remained uncertain.

Though her voice still carried a hint of vulnerability, Senior Elsie maintained her composure and continued her story.

“Back then, I had no mana, no magic, nothing. There were a lot of people who would pick on my younger brother and me just because we were particularly small. And the elders in the family just let it happen.”

“…So, is that why you are going to load them on an A-frame back carrier?“

“Isn’t it such a cool traditio… No, I’m just k-kidding! Hehe….”