I was preparing to go to the annual prayer. This year, Iris and Rowan accompanied me as well. However, we made a detour. It was Iris's wish to visit Rinna before we went to the capital. So, we had to go to the former mansion of Count Houston.

  “It is good to see you in good health, brother-in-law.” Count Houston came running to hug me.

  Although I was taken aback, I gave him my reply. “I am also delighted to see you in great health, too.”

  “You, too, Iris; you are as stunning as ever. And Mr. Rowan, your hair… It is unfair.”

  While Iris silently bowed to him, Rowan quietly replied, “We cannot go against natural order.”

  Although significantly older, Rowan still maintained his long hair. However, Count Houston…

  “Count Houston, can we?” I tried to intervene

  “Ah, sorry, please get in.”

  As we get into the lung room.

  “Everyone, please be seated. Today is a family gathering. No need to stand on formality. My wife and children are already in the capital.”

  “Sorry, because of our sudden request.” Iris lowered her head as he apologized.

  “It is ok. It is a pleasant surprise for me. I am happy to receive you.”

  “Your word put me at ease.”

  “Do you want to see Rinna right now? I already asked the keeper to prepare everything.” He said that as he looked at Iris.

  “Please.”

  “Alright. Krose, please guide them.”

  “Thank you.”

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  Iris promptly left the room. I was about to do the same, but Rowan held me back.

  “Master, please don’t ruin it. This is your only chance.” He said that as he handed me a small box.

  “I wish you luck.” He said to me as he pushed my back out of the room.

  “Shall we prepare too?” Count Houston said to Rowan before the door closed.

  I looked at the small box in my hand. When I opened it, a ring was inside. It was our wedding ring. It was Rinna’s.

  Then, I caught on to what they were trying to do. Only then did I feel a butterfly in my stomach. I remember the word Rowan said to me. I only had one chance. I would make it a success for my children, for myself, for Rinna, I thought to myself.

  After I rushed to Rinna’s resting place, I found Iris kneeling in front of Rinna. She was performing a knight's salute.

  “Master.” She called me without looking back.

  “Iris.”

  “Do you know? I am Lady Rinna’s knight. I am also her handmaid.”

  “I do.” Yes, this was a fact that everyone knew.

  “Now, I will also become her sister, too.”

  “…”

  “Master, you only have one chance.” While still facing Rinna, Iris said to me.

  “This is the only chance Lady Rinna and I give you.” Then she slowly stood up.

  “You must do your best.”

  Iris turned to face me.

  “Do not let us down. You must not embarrass yourself in front of Lady Rinna.” Iris smiled at me.

  Rinna, too, smiled at me.

  I slowly walked up to them.

  As I walked, I began to think.

  ‘What is Iris to me?

  She is the brave soul who fights injustice beside me.

  What is Iris to Rinna?

  She is a devoted knight to Rinna, also her sister.

  What is Iris to my children?

  She is a mother to my children.

  Who is Iris?

  Iris is Iris. She is our Iris—no more, no less. We don’t need any more words to define her.’

  “Iris, will you walk this life with me, Dylan?” That was how I proposed to Iris.

  “This is you after all. I am a fool to expect too much from you.” In response, she gave me a helpless look.

  “Lady Rinna, I will accept his proposal. I apologize for delaying your command. I will take your place as you commanded. Please watch over us.” Iris closed her eyes as she said so.

  Then, she opened her eyes and looked straight at my eyes. “I will.” Was her confirmation.

  “Thank you.” I put the ring on Iris’s finger. I could not be more grateful.

  That is all for us: no grand ceremony, no extra words, just a sample question and acceptance. It suited us the best. We don’t need anything grand. Just a simple, quiet life is enough for us. We won’t ask for more.

  When we returned, Rowan and Count Houston gave us their congratulations. We had a small dinner with only the four of us, just like old times. We missed Rinna. But we knew Rinna was with Iris. This time, we did not miss anyone. We enjoyed our meal as we reminisced about old times, our good old times.