The First Day of Paradise
The first day of summer vacation.
Standing in front of the dormitory, I held my travel bags along with Connie, Lucina, and Claire. In front of us, a line of carriages from the Heartland estate awaited.
“That’s quite a number…”
“I heard that Lady Tricia has a large amount of luggage, including her outfits and tea sets.”
Lucina provided the explanation, but… wasn’t this a bit excessive?
As I stood there, dumbfounded, Tricia arrived with a procession of maids in tow.
“My, you’re here quite early.”
“Well, since we’re being invited, we wouldn’t want to keep you waiting.”
“Hehe, as serious as ever.”
Tricia chuckled, covering her mouth with her hand. Was it just my imagination, or was she more excited than usual?
It seemed she had been looking forward to summer vacation just like any other student.
“Now then, this is the carriage prepared for you all.”
With the overwhelming power of the Heartland family on full display, we boarded our designated carriage.
◇◇◇
The southern region of the kingdom was a renowned resort area.
With an abundance of tourist attractions, the area housed numerous villas owned by nobles and wealthy individuals. Some parts were even classified as special zones, requiring strict security clearance to enter.
The Heartland family’s villa was located within one such special zone.
“The sea breeze feels wonderful, doesn’t it, Claire?”
“Yes, it really does.”
Excitedly, Connie and Claire gazed out of the carriage window. Sitting across from them, Lucina and I nodded as we watched their delighted expressions.
Still, I never expected to step foot into this special district.
Even my own Gallard family and Claire’s Mertzalo family couldn’t enter this area. Owning a villa here was a clear symbol of power.
One day, maybe I should build a villa here too.
Watching Connie and Claire’s excitement, a new ambition took root within me.
Power could be demonstrated in many ways—this was just another form of it.
I was already looking forward to the future.
After some time, we finally arrived at what could only be described as a grand mansion rather than a mere villa.
“Welcome to my summer retreat.”
Having arrived ahead of us, Tricia greeted us as we stepped out of the carriage.
“Thank you, President Tricia.”
“There’s no need for thanks. As the Headmaster said, this is my way of repaying you for resolving the Mertzalo family’s incident. Please enjoy yourselves without restraint.”
Tricia’s expression was far more relaxed and warm compared to how she looked at school.
Perhaps she was the one who had been looking forward to this vacation the most.
“I will show you around the estate first. Then, we shall head to the private beach behind the mansion to play.”
“”Private beach!!””
Connie and Claire’s excitement shot up once more.
It seemed they had been looking forward to this for quite some time.
“You don’t seem as excited, Master Lake.”
As I watched the girls, Lucina directed a question at me.
“No way. I’ve been really looking forward to this.”
“Yet you don’t show it in your expression or behavior.”
“Did you want me to make a big fuss?”
“I wouldn’t have minded seeing that side of you.”
She says that so casually.
Well, for now, I’ll keep my composure…
But once we get to the beach, I might not be able to stay calm.
After all, I’ll get to see everyone in their swimsuits.
What do you think about this chapter?
