A Random in Re:Zero

Loop 3 - Part 9

Of course we both knew who I was referring to without me having to name him himself or the previous Sword Saint.

"That story sounds very familiar." Wilhelm stretched his lips, a faint smile forming as he remembered his past with Theresia. I smiled too because I'd seen those moments in the anime, and it was almost as if I'd been there with them (not literally, because in that case it would have been awkward, uncomfortable, and definitely ruined the romantic atmosphere of those scenes).

After a few seconds of irrelevant flashbacks, Wilhelm looked at me in a new light.

"If it's not inappropriate to ask, how do you feel about Lady Emilia?"

"Ah..."

Just a few days ago, this man's grandson asked me a very similar question. The irony was that my answer to that question, if I were to be honest, wasn't the same anymore.

"I'm in love with her. I'll protect her at any cost."

I hadn't yet accepted those feelings as real, but I wasn't going to try to deny that they were there either.

"I see. Your eyes remind me of my own when I think of my wife. If you're determined to achieve your goal, don't let anything stop you."

I heard footsteps approaching us. Both Wilhelm and I turned to see what it was. There was Felix, escorted out of the mansion by Rem.

"Looks like we're running out of time." Wilhelm said.

"Sorry for keeping you waiting outside, Grandpa Wil." Felix apologized as soon as he reached the carriage. "Were you very bored, nya?"

"Damn, I love the way catgirls talk... No, this isn't a catgirl, it's a boy! A sexy catboy!"

I had to remind myself that Felix and I share a gender. It would be dangerous to overlook that.

"Not at all, this young man was very kind to me and we had a pleasant conversation all this time."

Focusing his attention on me, Felix approached curiously.

"Oh ho, you're the guy Lady Emilia mentioned."

Out of nowhere and without asking permission, Felix caught me in a sort of back hug and began inspecting my body in a way that included quite a bit of physical contact. I didn't want to be rude, so I didn't complain, but I told myself that if I ever felt a lump pressing against my rear end, the femboy kitten would lose all his teeth.

"Oh? You're being very cooperative even though I acted so suddenly. I expected a little resistance from you, you know?"

"I know you're a respected figure, so I didn't think I should worry. Besides, it would be problematic to offend a knight of the Royal Guard."

Although it was very brief, I managed to see Felix exchange a glance with Wilhelm.

"What a surprise! I'm flattered to be recognized. Are you a fan?"

"Not exactly. I just like to know a little bit about everything." I said with my best poker face.

"Heee, so it is like that..."

"Felix, it's time."

"Oh, don't be a spoilsport, Grandpa Wil! Just when things were getting interesting..."

"Sir Leandro, it's been a pleasure." Wilhelm bowed, addressing me formally, which could be interpreted as a sign of acceptance and respect. "I wish you the best of luck."

"Same here, Sir Wilhelm."

Reinhard's grandfather jumped into the carriage and prepared to leave. Felix smiled and offered me a few last words before leaving with the old man.