Julies hesitated for a moment, the handkerchief still in his grasp, before looking up at Amelia with a puzzled expression.
"Why would you—someone from the Count Leinge lineage—be engaged to someone like me?" he asked slowly, as if making sure he hadn't misunderstood.
Amelia's smile didn't waver. She turned her gaze back to him, her tone light but deliberate.
"The easiest way for a family to welcome talent," she replied.
Julies blinked, clearly caught off guard. His finger shot up, pointing at himself in disbelief. "Talent? Me?"
"Mm-hm." Amelia nodded without hesitation, as if the answer was obvious. "How can one not call the champion of the Northern Martial Arts Tournament talented?"
The words landed with quiet weight.
Julies's mouth opened slightly, but no immediate reply came. His eyes darted to the side, perhaps to avoid the intensity of her gaze. There was a faint flush creeping up the back of his neck, and for once, he seemed unsure what to do with his hands.
