I Became the Son of a Corrupt Lord, so I’ll Enjoy an Easy Life in Another World ~but Please Stop Revering Me as a “Saint”!~

Stage 1-23. All Of It, Etched In My Memory

In the dark. In the suffocating darkness.

It’s quiet, with only the sound of my own breathing and the occasional sniffle breaking the silence in this lonely space.

Ah… this cramped space feels comforting.

It’s been so long since I’ve done this.

I never became strong. I only thought I had.

What is the meaning of my existence? What is my life?

It feels like I’ve been repeating these endless questions without finding any answers.

“……!”

The sound of a key turning in the lock.

…Who is it this time?

When Student Council President Milfonty came, I stayed silent, ignoring her.

I’m sure I’ve caused enough trouble to get kicked out of the student council by now.

But that’s fine. I’ll be dragged back to my father’s house soon anyway.

Until then, I just want to be alone.

I just want to stay here in this darkness forever, forever—

“Knew you’d be here.”

—Huh?

A sliver of light filters in.

A familiar voice. A voice I could listen to forever.

I look up to find him standing there, a look of mild exasperation on his face.

“Ah, w-wait, why are you…?”

“You used to hide in the closet whenever something bothered you. Figured you’d do the same this time.”

“You… remembered?”

“How many times do you think I had to find you? It’s stuck in my memory for good now.”

“Ah… hahaha…”

He remembers me.

That simple fact makes me happy.

It wouldn’t have been surprising if he hated me, and erased me from his mind.

But there he stood, his shoulders shrugging in that same familiar way, just like before. It made me even happier.

“Looks like even the student council president didn’t think to check here… Wait, what’re you doing?”

“W-well, I was crying just now, and my eyes are all puffy… it’s embarrassing to let you see.”

“Like I care.”

“Ah!”

He grabs my hand, pulling me out effortlessly.

I almost stumble, but instead, I fall right into his chest.

I should’ve moved away, but before I could, he gently pats my head.

“I’ve seen you cry plenty of times. It’s nothing new. No need to feel embarrassed.”

“…Yeah. You’re right…”

I bury my face into his chest, sliding my arms around his waist.

Just like when he used to comfort me.

“…Thanks, Ouga.”

With that sense of relief, I let myself cry freely once more.