I Will Fulfill the Role of the Villain-Chapter 142

The Redrick mansion's servants began their morning early and were bustling about under Gwen's supervision. Each servant had clearly defined duties, and today, those responsible for preparing meals were especially hurried.

"What's special about today?" one servant asked another, observing the busy scene.

"It seems the young duke ordered it. He insisted on a hearty breakfast this morning."

"Really? He's not usually one for heavy meals, right?"

"That's true... Ah."

The servants exchanged a knowing glance and covered their mouths, giggling.

"Could it be because of Luke?"

"Who else? Hmm, I heard from Ellie that they've been sharing a bedroom lately."

"What?"

The colleague who heard this surprising piece of gossip shouted so loudly that he got slapped on the back. Had Gwen been there, he would have undoubtedly received a stern reprimand.

"Sorry, I was just so shocked. To think that they've grown so close already."

The servant's eyes sparkled with emotion. Just then, footsteps echoed from the central staircase.

"No, I can walk on my own."

"That won't do. Didn’t your legs give out just this morning when you tried to stand?"

It was Theo and Luke. Hearing their voices, the servants who were chatting quietly exchanged glances, their lips twitching as if they were suppressing laughter.

"I'm like this because of who, exactly? And you have the nerve to say that?"

"...I'm sorry."

As the sound of their footsteps grew closer, the servants quickly hid around the corner. Listening in on their masters' private conversation didn’t seem proper, especially given the nature of the discussion, which they suspected would embarrass the two.

Fortunately, Theo and Luke, oblivious to the servants' eavesdropping, walked slowly toward the dining area. Theo was visibly anxious, perhaps worried that Luke might stumble, while Luke just shook his head at Theo’s fussing. The servants watched their close interaction with satisfaction.

"Ah, there you are."

A servant approached them.

"We need more hands in the dining area. Can you help?"

"Of course! I’ll go!"

"Me, too!"

Inspired by seeing Theo and Luke, two servants eagerly volunteered. Their colleague gestured for both to come, smiling awkwardly.

Just then, Luke, led by Theo, sat down at a table laden with a lavish spread. The dishes were extraordinary, including some Luke had never seen before and ingredients rare in the empire.

"Luke? Go ahead and eat."

"What's the occasion today? Is it someone's birthday?"

Birthday? Theo shook his head, dismissing the idea.

"But what's all this?"

The amount of food was overwhelming, even for a healthy adult man.

"It’s for you."

"Do I look like I've been starving for days?"

No, this was more food than one could eat even after days of fasting.

"Hmm, weren’t you tired yesterday?"

Last night, Luke and Theo had been physically close throughout the dawn, with Luke experiencing pleasures he’d never known before, clinging to Theo. He couldn’t even remember how many times it had happened. By the end, he had completely lost consciousness.

The memory that he had lost his composure entirely in Theo's arms, despite never having passed out from battle wounds before, flashed through his mind again.

So, was Theo feeling guilty for pushing so hard last night that he prepared such an extravagant breakfast? As ruthless as he had been in bed, the sight of him being so considerate now was not entirely unwelcome.

"The commander really knows how to give and take care."

Luke bit into a tomato. Theo, usually scolding him for eating with his hands, now had his ears blushing red. The teasing was quite enjoyable, and yet Theo calmly wiped Luke’s mouth and then licked his own fingers.

Crash-

Suddenly, a sharp sound came from one side. A servant who had entered to help had dropped a plate.

"I’m so sorry."

The servant bowed repeatedly to Theo and Luke.

"Are you hurt?"

"No? Ah, no. I’m fine."

Caught peeking at Theo and Luke, the servant swallowed his embarrassment and sat down to pick up the broken pieces.

"I’m really sorry for disturbing your meal."

"That’s okay. Everyone makes mistakes. Just glad you’re not hurt."

Luke chewed his food, watching Theo reassuring the servant ⊛ Nоvеlιght ⊛ (Read the full story) not to be discouraged.

"Why do you ask?"

"Theo, you’re quite popular, aren’t you?"

"Hmm?"

"It seems like the noble ladies can't leave you alone."

Luke squinted his eyes. Theo was perfect, after all. A bit uptight, but a ducal heir and the head of the imperial forces, not to mention naturally handsome. Plus, his physique, which Luke had fully appreciated yesterday, was truly spectacular. In high society, he would definitely be considered a top matrimonial catch.

“Not really. Our house isn’t entertaining any marriage proposals. I’ve turned them all down before.”

"Oh, so there have been proposals."

Theo's hand paused with his knife in the air. Though the moment was brief, Luke caught the hesitation.

"Ah, what if someone tries to whisk away our esteemed commander while I’m abroad on duty?"

Luke sighed heavily, stirring his soup. The jest was laden with intention but enough to fluster Theo.

"That won’t happen."

"Really?"

"Yes. Who else would I choose but you?"

Luke’s lips twitched with amusement. He had led the conversation to hear those words, and hearing them brought a peculiar joy.

"I’m more worried about you."

The conversation suddenly turned back on him, causing Luke to widen his eyes. Why was he suddenly the target?

"I’m worried you might charm someone while you’re away."

"Theo, I’m going there to work."

As if he could seduce someone while on duty. Theo must have said that in jest, but his expression was unusually serious.

"What’s so worrisome? You only worry about me?"

"Yes."

"..."

"I’m worried you might get into dangerous situations on your mission, or get hurt. Just being apart from you... it’s not easy for me."

By now, the servants had discreetly left the dining area, giving Theo and Luke space to talk freely.

"Hmm, I’d like to tell you not to worry, but honestly, I don’t mind it."

Perhaps it was the first time someone had cared so deeply for him, but Luke felt both embarrassed and exhilarated.

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"Luke, I’ll say it again before you leave for Welharun. The detachment's only goal is to find evidence that Welharun is collaborating with Nox in violation of the agreements."

Luke nodded.

"It won’t be easy, but there’s no need to create dangerous situations like in battle."

"I know that. I’m not going there to fight."

Relieved by Luke’s response, Theo nodded. After finishing their meal, the two headed together to the military headquarters.

At the briefing held by the investigative unit, Theo reiterated to the members of the detachment to prioritize their safety above all else. Discussions on various strategies continued for a long while.

After the lengthy meeting, Luke prepared to return to the mansion.

Tomorrow was the day. The day the delegation would leave for Welharun.

He planned to pack his things in advance. Paul, Levi, and Jade had already been sent outside the headquarters. He told them to spend time with their families before leaving tomorrow.

Giving the team time with their families before a major mission was part of the duties of a commander. In the past, as a detachment leader playing the villain, he had never allowed such leniencies.

As Luke was about to leave the building, Theo approached. It was as if he had been waiting just for him.

"Luke, going back to the mansion?"

"Yes. I don’t think there’s much to pack, but I still need to get ready."

"Before that, come with me for a moment."

"Where to?"

"The commander’s office," Theo said succinctly, turning first. Luke followed him, puzzled but trusting.

"Why there?"

"I have something to give you."