A Random in Re:Zero

Loop 5 - Part 24

Crusch's smile expressed pure admiration and respect, something I couldn't remember seeing in anyone who had ever looked at me before.

I didn't deserve to enjoy it, but I rejoiced in the feeling of greatness and accomplishment.

"It's very flattering to be seen that way by someone as amazing as you."

"I could tell you the same. In fact, it would be great to have you on my team."

"Believe me, I'd love to, but I have to follow the path I chose."

She grimaced in defeat, but her cheerful attitude never wavered.

"I was afraid you'd say that. That's a shame." She sighed. "However, if you ever change your mind..."

"Lady Crusch! So you were here!" Felix came running to interrupt the awkward situation. "Oh, am I interrupting something?"

The question was not polite, as was evident in Felix's irritated tone, as he looked at me antagonistically.

"No." We both answered in unison.

"That was suspiciously timed nya!"

"Stop being paranoid, Felix." I clicked my tongue. "Your lovely lady and I are just talking business."

Crusch coughed to resume the conversation.

"Anyway. I want to tell you that from now on, I will always treat you as a comrade or ally, and I will try to be on good terms with Emilia's camp. Also, I'd like to give you a reward that reflects my gratitude for today."

"Can I choose?"

"As long as it's not something evil or involves my resignation from the royal team, go ahead."

"So..."

I knelt on the ground and took his hand.

"Marry me, Crusch Karsten."

Felix immediately exploded and jumped on me.

"Damn ruffian! I knew you had those intentions!"

"Hey, wait, don't scratch my face!" I struggled to shake him off. "Man, don't you know a joke when you see one?"

"You never know with you!"

I sighed in annoyance, resenting the burning sensation in my cheeks. Next time that jerk pisses me off, he's going to end up scratching my back, if you know what I mean.

Oh no, my mind's doing weird things again. I'm straight! No smut with men, except Reinhard!

"Don't worry, I won't try to steal your lady." I reassured Felix. "It would be a waste to make her a widow so young."

"What the hell does that mean?" He raised an eyebrow.

It means she'd see her husband die, isn't that obvious? Even if I can come back from the dead without anyone remembering, it's still very cruel to do that to someone who's already lost the man she liked.

"Forget it." I patted Felix on the shoulder and looked at Crusch. "On another note, do you think we can stick with today's itinerary?"

"Sure." She replied stiffly. "How many men do you need for your mission?"

"Everyone. You should come too."

"What?"

"Remember what I said about how good I am at predicting the future? Let's just say I have a strong feeling that an Archbishop of Gluttony will be very angry about his pet's death and will seek out those responsible to get even. So, I'm pretty sure he'll come that way."