Vivid | Lee Minho

•Scene 4•

The official trial of the children's education scheme under the new register was to commence today. As the head of the operation, you arrived early in the morning to oversee preparations and provide help if needed. Everything had been proceeding as planned, even with your week of absence, so there was nothing to be worried about.

Chaeryeong walked up to where you stood with your guards, her face bright with excitement when she asked, "My lady, the classroom has been set up. Would you like to see it?"

"Of course." you smiled at her, and she led you inside the building into the large space repurposed into a classroom.

Your gaze was immediately drawn to the dark chalkboard at the front, a dull shine to it. Rows upon rows of seats paired with long tables lined both sides of the room, leaving a modest pathway in between. Shelves were nailed to the walls, some carried books and models, and others were free to be used by the students.

Sunlight poured into the space generously, and a soft breeze blew through the open windows. You could already imagine the students seated with their books and pens, concentrated on their teacher as she strolled about the classroom.

You truly hoped that this step would bring them a brighter future.

As you were listening to Chaeryeong's enthusiastic explanation of her teaching plans for the day, you picked out the sound of hooves outside the building. Strange, you were not expecting any visitors.

One of your guards appeared shortly after, announcing, "I am sorry to interrupt, my lady, but His Lordship has arrived."

Minho? Why would he be here?

It was no secret that today was the official start of the trial period, but you did not ask him to attend the first class with you. You had already assumed that he would have more urgent matters on his hands for the day.

The heir of Valorieve was stepping through the door before you could go out to greet him. While Chaeryeong dropped into a surprised curtesy, you made your way toward him with poorly masked haste.

"Lord Minho," you spoke under your breath once you were close enough. "You did not have to take the time out of your day."

He took your gloved hand and brought it to his lips, only murmuring, "I didn't see you at breakfast today, Lady Y/n."

His show of reverence and affection startled you, and it took all of your willpower not to pull away, face heating up. Chaeryeong and the guards were still watching you. A show was exactly what you needed.

That's right. All of this is an act. You reminded yourself, unsettled by the jumble of conflicting emotions in your heart.

Still holding your hand, Minho turned to Chaeryeong, who folded into another curtesy. "Greetings to you, my lord."

"At ease," he told her. "You have my gratitude for agreeing to partake in this project. His Excellency will know of your valuable contributions."

"Thank you, my lord." she beamed.

You expected him to leave after that, but he stayed to observe the first class with you. Being the exemplary vision of a noble that he was, he inquired about the progress and discussed plans with the team of scholars you had assembled. The suggestions he gave were riveting and insightful, and it felt as though his presence had lifted the morale of all those present.

Your visit finally ended at an hour past noon, and as you were headed back to the palace in your carriage, Minho blurted a question, "Would you like to visit the mountains?"

"Why do you ask?" you regarded him curiously and he shrugged. "You have worked hard, should you not enjoy a vacation?"

You would hardly consider being stuck in bed for a week to be hard work. "That would not be necessary—"

"The staff at the villa have already been informed," he interjected softly, crossing his legs as he turned his gaze toward the passing scenery. "We will be leaving in a week's time so make sure to be prepared. It does get quite cold up there."

You held back any protests. His insistence could only mean one thing in your mind. He wanted information.