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Being Sweet to Her

“Well, keep up the good work,” Ryan said, glancing slightly in Tom’s direction. He was perceptive enough and could clearly see things that connect. “I’m sure that someday, we’ll be in need of you and your mother to create not only bread but all kinds of desserts.”

“R-really?!” Ena’s eyes sparkled.

“Yes. I intend to make the Stonefall Village bigger, and when that time comes, we’ll need something more indulgent and delightful for all of our people and guests.” Ryan smiled. “Sugar, frosting, and all that sweet stuff. I know sugar is a little hard to import, but we can also look into growing it here and creating all kinds of confectionery delights.”

Ena stepped forward and excitedly reached for both of Ryan’s hands. “You promise that, Master Ryan? I've always wanted to bake a cake—like the ones in the capital! They’re so expensive to make. But if it’s you, then it sounds possible to achieve!”

“Of course, of course. I plan to keep my word.” Ryan chuckled.

Behind Ryan, Joan’s expression suddenly turned cold and hostile. Her emerald green eyes turned shades darker as she assessed the village girl in front of her.

‘Just because Ryan was exiled does not mean that this person can simply snuggle up and become close to him. She does not know her place.’

Of course, Joan didn’t go out and harass Ena. It was not something she would do, but the glare should be enough to send a message.

“A-ah, forgive me for stepping close, Master Ryan. I just got so excited at the thought of making something…” Ena sheepishly stepped back and curtsied low.

Ryan nodded graciously. “Don’t worry, I understand your enthusiasm. Even Tom here wishes for something new to appear in this village, and we’re working on it together. Isn’t that right, Tom?”

“Huh?” Tom was a little glum and sullen and didn’t hear Ryan properly. He was too distracted by his own feelings of defeat.

‘I know that Master Ryan is exceedingly more attractive and handsome than I am. It makes sense that Ena would be enamored with him.’ Tom thought.

“I said, we’re doing great projects together, aren’t we, Tom? It’s something that Mrs. Eda and her daughter, Miss Ena should look forward to.” Ryan said again.

‘Master Ryan is… including me in the conversation?’ Tom jerked his head up in surprise and immediately scratched the back of his dark brown hair.

“Ah, I’m doing my best, yeah,” Tom said.

‘Come on man, I’m doing my best to serve as a wingman to you,’ Ryan thought with a frustrated sigh. ‘You need to make yourself interesting and make an effort too you know?’

“Really, Tom? I’m so glad.” Ena looked over at the young man and smiled warmly. “You would always slack off whether it was farming, baking, and other tasks that your grandfather put you in. It's really great to see that you’ve finally shown interest in working hard. I’m sure you’ll do amazing things with Master Ryan. I’m proud of you.”

Tom’s jaw dropped lightly at Ena’s praise. He clutched the blueprint and immediately grinned at her.

“Of course, of course. I knew I had to grow up. Everyone here is doing their part, and it’s also time for me to step up too.” Tom said. “Master Ryan and I are working on great projects together, and I hope you get to see them soon.”

‘Well… that’s a little better. A tad enthusiastic, but at least he’s got the spirit.’ Ryan stopped himself from chuckling and merely smiled calmly. ‘Who knew that someone who was so hostile when I became Village Master would be like this around the person that he likes? Different sides indeed.’

“You certainly are bringing a lot of changes here into the village, Master Ryan,” Baker Eda said appreciatively as she took out a batch of new bread.

“Mmmm, is that for me too?” Chrysus who had gobbled up all the bread in one tray looked up cutely at the Baker.

“We’ll pay for that bread,” Ryan said with a chuckle.

“Thank you, Master Ryan.” Baker Eda immediately lowered the tray for the little dragon.

Meanwhile, Joan was still a little lost in her thoughts.

She did appreciate Ena backing away and noticed how Ryan was trying to make Tom look good in front of the baker girl, but she was still feeling a bit needy for Ryan’s attention.

‘The past week, we’ve been stuck with Doran and Spike, and now we have Chrysus too with us. I know I said that I’ll support Ryan throughout his goals, but I hope we also get to spend some time together with just the two of us… ah, can I really say that out loud though?’

Joan normally maintained a professional composure, but she slowly reached out to Ryan and tugged the sleeve of his shirt shyly. “It is getting late. I think we should start heading back as well, Master Ryan. Tomorrow will be another day filled with activities after all.”

Ryan was ready to speak more with Baker Eda and even wanted to nudge Tom in the right direction, but that all disappeared when Joan spoke to him shyly.

‘She doesn’t usually express herself in the open, and even less around other people. It must mean that she really needs me this time.’ Ryan thought.

“You’re right, Joan. It is getting late, and Baker Eda and Miss Ena here must have a lot of work to catch up on too.” Ryan said.

“Thank you so much for the time, Master Ryan!” Baker Eda said.

“Also, you can report back to me tomorrow, Tom.” Ryan waved at Tom. “You still have bread to buy, right? Chrysus, let’s go.”

Chrysus looked up and moved up to his feet. “Okay!” He burped a little and followed after Ryan and Joan.

Once the two were out of the bakery, Ryan immediately kissed Joan’s cheek and grinned.

“Want to spend some time together? Just the two of us?” Ryan asked. “We’ve been stuck with others for nearly a week…”

“What about me?” Chrysus looked up at them and brushed against their legs. “Am I not included in your plans, tonight, Brother?”

“Nope. Tonight, Joan needs me, and I want to spend time with her. You’ll understand it when you grow up a little, Chrysus.” Ryan said.

“… I can understand now too!” Chrysus pouted.

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