When I Love You, The Fog Rises Ahead

In previous years, I had always accompanied Alexander on the autumn hunts. But this year, I was determined not to go. I planned to feign illness, hoping to excuse myself, but before long, Alexander brought the royal physician to my chambers.

He gazed at me, his eyes betraying a fleeting hint of amusement. "What ails you? You can tell me."

I had never been good at lying, and now, trapped under his scrutiny, my eyes reddened slightly. Finally, Alexander dismissed the servants, leaving just the two of us alone in the room.

"Brother, I'd like to rest," I said, retreating half a step toward the bed, pretending to be fatigued.

Seeing my resistance, Alexander seemed poised to say something but held back. "Very well, have some rest," he said before turning to leave.

As soon as he was gone, potions and tonics began to flood into my room as though they were on a schedule. Cornered, I had no choice but to announce that my health had miraculously recovered.

"If that's the case, you'll accompany me on the hunt," Alexander replied with a rare smile, the corners of his lips slightly upturned. His mood seemed noticeably improved, though I couldn't help but wonder if it was just my imagination.