Who Exactly Are You Talking About...?

“...But I think Dorothea-san is a strong and noble young lady for trying to meet her parents’ expectations, even while suppressing her own feelings.

“But... I hope you’ll keep that precious love safe for yourself, too, Dorothea-san.”

“Protecting my love...”

Dorothea-san’s eyes widened in surprise, then her lips moved slightly, as if repeating my words to herself.

After a brief silence, she shyly gave my blouse a little tug.

“Dorothy...”

“Huh?”

“I-I mean... well... You may call me Dorothy, if you like...!”

“...Dorothy-san?”

When I called her by name, Dorothy-san folded her arms across her chest and turned away with a “Hmph!” Perhaps she was embarrassed; her plump, childlike cheeks had turned pink...