Maria looked surprised at Justinian's question, unsure how to reply as she struggled to comprehend his assumption about her current relationship status.
"Julius is a good man and all, but I just don't see myself dating someone so idealistic like that."
Maria answered, which in turn made Justinian cough out even more. It got so bad that Justinian had to use his system to intervene to help him recover.
"I apologise for my manners..."
Justinian took a deep breath as he was finally able to breathe correctly.
But the biggest problem was... what in the world was Maria saying!?
She was supposed to fall in love with Julius for that reason! She loved how he was so idealistic and noble in a world full of scheming; that was the entire logic behind their relationship...
So... why now!?
Unless...?
Justinian thought about what happened at the ball, and to the system quest that was given to him...
Did... did he make too strong an impression on her?
'I've screwed up now, haven't I?'
