kscans

Chapter 53 - What an All-Purpose Bandage Can't Stop

Leonhard turned his back to his comrades and discreetly put on the ring so no one would see.

It's probably better if they don't know this is a teleportation portal.

But he wanted to give them at least some sense of security, the knowledge that those in this trench could freely go outside and obtain supplies.

The overly long day was finally coming to an end.

As he pushed open the tower door, he sensed a presence. ...The fourth floor!

"Mireille!"

At his voice, Mireille came running down the stairs. The next moment, they were in each other's arms.

Leonhard was released from the tension that had been gripping him. Mireille was released from the anxiety of knowing the truth.

That was why they clung to each other tightly, as if devouring the feeling of relief. As if time had stopped, the two of them remained motionless.

I really am in love with Mireille. I want her to stay by my side forever.

A clear and certain feeling was etched into each of their hearts.

But then, Mireille's eyes caught sight of the blood spreading across Leonhard's back.

"Th, that's a lot of blood! Let me see!"

As Mireille hurriedly tried to lift his shirt, Leonhard gave a wry smile.

"Yeah, a lot happened... but I'm safe thanks to you."

As he spoke, he explained the current situation, including his exchange with Darius.

"I, I'm so glad you're okay..." Mireille felt her strength leave her.

But Leonhard continued.

"But... the All-Purpose Bandage you gave me didn't stop the bleeding. I ended up wasting it."

"...That's because..." Mireille's face turned bright red.

"The All-Purpose Bandage is good for closing wounds... but it can't stop bleeding."

Wh, why didn't you use the High Potion first...! Argh!

As Mireille realized this and blushed even deeper, Leonhard looked at her with a blank expression.

"But before, you healed a much deeper wound with just the All-Purpose Bandage, right? So..."

"W, well..." Having resigned herself, Mireille confessed, trembling with embarrassment.

"The thing is... you were unconscious then, so... I gave you a High Potion mouth-to-mouth."

"............"

Leonhard froze. He touched his own lips, his eyes wide with shock.

"...What?"

"I, I was desperate! I apologize for not having your consent! B, but you would have died otherwise, and, w, well, it was my first kiss too... s, so... please forgive..."

Leonhard gazed quietly at her as she stammered. Then, he whispered in a low voice.

"--Let me do it over."

"Huh?"

"Even if... your feelings change in the future. I love you. When all of this is over, I'll properly come to court you. You can turn me down then if you want."

Leonhard's gaze was serious.

"But now... if you'll let me, I want to redo that first kiss."

He brought his face close to Mireille's. The distance where their breaths could touch. He confirmed that Mireille did not resist. In fact, she closed her eyes, trembling slightly. Seeing that, Leonhard felt a sense of relief.

A soft sensation gently pressed against hers.

At first, it was supposed to be just a touch. But Leonhard's lips deepened the kiss, leaving Mireille with no escape.

"...Ngh..."

The sound that escaped her lips made Mireille blush even more. But Leonhard changed the angle and continued, going deeper.

They both wanted each other, their heat mingling.

Their breaths escaped, and even as their own was stolen, they sought more, deeper.

I can't, it's hard to breathe... but... I don't hate it.

Her legs were trembling and weak, but on the narrow staircase, she was supported by the wall and Leonhard. But every time his fingers touched her cheek, seeking her, and grazed her neck, she felt like she would lose all her strength.

"...Mireille..." Leonhard's low, sensual voice sent a shiver down her spine, and her thoughts turned white.

And then, finally, their lips parted.

Mireille was panting, clinging to Leonhard to support her shaking legs.

"...Sorry. I couldn't stop." Leonhard's voice was hoarse too.

"..." Mireille could only cling to him, her cheeks beet red.

But he lifted her chin again and their lips met once more. This time, it was short, yet as if he was reluctant to part. As if savoring it.

"I'm taking you to the base now. ...I can't do this in front of everyone, and honestly, I don't want to show you to them at all," Leonhard said in a whisper.

"So... before we go, just one more time."

Mireille, though trembling slightly, gave a small nod.

The two of them kissed again. Even sweeter and deeper than before, over and over.

As if to confirm their mutual feelings, they shared a kiss that knew no end.