Reincarnated as a Villainous Aristocrat in an Otome Game, So I Bought the Main Heroine with Money

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Chapter 70: Taking Clarice as My Wife

《Cerios’ Side》

With Duke Everett gone, the once-imposing atmosphere of the Everett estate felt noticeably lighter.

Standing in the vast courtyard, I took a deep breath, steadying myself.

The duke had departed for the royal capital—

To officially report the marriage and finalize Clarice’s disinheritance.

In the meantime, my top priority was ensuring Clarice’s safe departure to Egrid territory.

Before she was formally cast out of House Everett, I needed to prepare the foundations for her new life.

“Lord Cerios, the carriage is ready.”

I turned at the sound of Kanon’s voice.

As always, she carried herself with composed authority, her piercing gaze never wavering.

“Thank you. Now all that’s left is… convincing Clarice.”

I let out a small sigh.

Kanon raised an eyebrow.

“Convincing her? Do you really think that’s necessary? I believe Lady Clarice has already made up her mind to follow you.”

“I know. But still… she must have a lot on her mind.”

With that, I made my way toward Clarice’s room.

“Clarice, I’m coming in.”

After knocking, I stepped inside. She stood by the window, gazing outside.

Even in profile, her elegance was undeniable.

But there was also a quiet melancholy in her expression.

“Cerios… what is it?”

When she turned to face me, I caught a glimpse of something in her eyes—fatigue, hesitation.

“Everything is ready. It’s time to leave for Egrid territory. A new life awaits you.”

“A new life, huh…”

She whispered the words softly, lowering her gaze to the floor.

There was something so fragile about her in that moment that it made my chest tighten.

“Clarice, from now on—I will protect you. I’ll make sure you have a place where you can live in peace.”

At my words, Clarice narrowed her eyes slightly.

“…Are you sure about this? I’m no longer the duke’s daughter. I’ve been disinherited—I have nothing left.”

“What are you talking about?”

I stepped forward, resting my hands on her shoulders.

“It doesn’t matter who you are—I chose you. That’s why I want you to build a new life with me.”

Clarice stared at me for a long moment.

Then, slowly, she nodded.

“…Alright. I am no longer Clarice of House Everett. All I have now… is myself. Is that enough for you?”

“Of course. And you don’t need to worry—I’ve already prepared everything you need as my bride.”

Her eyes widened in shock.

“You prepared…?”

“My territory is home to skilled craftsmen and merchants. I’ve arranged for your clothes, furniture, and anything else you might need. And since I wanted you to choose what you like, I also had several designs prepared just for you.”

Clarice’s lips trembled slightly.

Her eyes, filled with surprise, flickered with unspoken emotions.

“You… didn’t have to go this far for me.”

“Of course I did. I won’t let my wife feel ashamed of anything.”

At my words, she let out a quiet laugh.

“Honestly… you really are an idiot.”

But this time, there was no sharpness in her voice—only warmth.

“Then I’ll gladly be an idiot. If it means making you happy, I’ll be the biggest fool in the world.”

I extended my hand toward her.

“Come—let’s go. Our new life is waiting.”

For a moment, Clarice hesitated. But then, slowly, she placed her hand in mine. The warmth of her fingers spread through my chest.

Together, we stepped into the carriage—headed toward Egrid territory.

A land even more remote than Everett’s domain—yet, one where a new beginning awaited us.

When we arrived at the estate, I had already arranged for her new room.

The furniture was chosen to match the atmosphere of her old chambers, so she wouldn’t feel out of place.

But I left the colors and decor unfinished—so she could make it her own.

“You can change anything you like. Just tell me, and I’ll have it arranged immediately.”

Clarice let out a quiet sigh.

“Honestly… you really are too much.”

But even as she muttered those words, I saw something in her eyes—

For the first time since her disinheritance, a sense of peace.

“I never imagined I’d be welcomed like this…”

“From now on, we’ll build our own future together.”

At my words, Clarice smiled.

And somehow, that smile felt like a light—illuminating the path ahead.

As we stepped into the estate, Faina and Liese were already there, waiting for us.

“Welcome home, Young Lady!”

“Lady Clarice, congratulations!”

“Faina, Liese… I’ll be in your care from now on.”

“This is your new home, Clarice.”

As I said those words, Clarice closed her eyes for a brief moment, taking a deep breath.

Then, looking at me, she whispered—

“Thank you, Cerios… truly, thank you. And both of you—I’ll be relying on you from now on.”

I gave her a quiet nod. Faina and Liese beamed with joy as they welcomed her in earnest.

“From now on, this is our time. Let’s build something new—together.”

At that, Clarice let out a soft, genuine laugh.

“Yes, Cerios. From this day forward… I’ll be in your care.”

A new life had begun.

I didn’t know what lay ahead.

But even so—I was certain of one thing.

Liese, the main heroine.

Clarice, the villainess once destined for ruin.

And even my own future—

I had made my decision.

No matter how thorny the path ahead—I would walk it.

Even if the road was uncertain, I had found my resolve—

Watching these three women stand beside me, I knew.

“Just as they chose me—I will protect them.”

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[Afterword]

Hello, this is Iko!

First off—we’ve surpassed 5000 likes!

This was one of my biggest goals for the Kakuyomu contest, so I’m incredibly grateful.

Thank you all so much!!!

And with this—Volume 02 comes to an end!

Since I write this story on a whim, I have zero pre-planned plotlines.

So, for now, I’ll just leave you with this teaser—

Volume 03 Preview!

“They’re too precious—so even if the kingdom becomes my enemy, I’ll fight!”

I hope you’re looking forward to it!

Volume 02: Character Introductions

Cerios von Egrid

Main Protagonist / Reincarnated Individual / 16 Years Old

The current head of the Egrid Marquisate and a reincarnated individual who retains memories from his previous life.

He realizes that he has been reborn in the world of the otome game Rose of Grantia and struggles to change his predetermined fate of condemnation.

After leaving the academy, he steadily increases his influence in the Egrid territory.

Through his engagement with Clarice, he strengthens his ties with the ducal family. While he appears composed, he carries a firm resolve within, showcasing his wide range of skills from governance to combat.

Liese

Main Heroine of Rose of Grantia / 16 Years Old

Originally, she was supposed to grow up as an orphan after losing her mother, but Cerios saved her mother’s life.

Now, she serves as Cerios’s attendant while attending the academy.

However, in the original game, she was meant to enroll as a scholarship student. As the main heroine of the otome game, she attracts attention from various love interests.

Yet, after being saved by Cerios, she developed strong feelings for him and swore loyalty to support him.

Despite being admired by several love interests, her heart remains solely devoted to Cerios.

She is kind and capable, influencing those around her in many ways.

Clarice von Everett

Villainous Noblewoman of Rose of Grantia / 16 Years Old

Originally, she was the prince’s fiancée and positioned as the villainess who opposed the main heroine, Liese.

She was destined to be cast aside as a villain and condemned after her engagement was broken.

However, through her noble conduct at the academy and her friendship with Cerios, she came to respect and feel indebted to him.

While she possesses a sharp intellect and refined elegance, she sometimes shows a tsundere side when dealing with Cerios.

Faina

Cerios’s Personal Maid / 16 Years Old

A devoted maid who has served Cerios since childhood.

Highly capable and deeply loyal, she is willing to risk her life for his sake.

While she harbors feelings for Cerios, she is also considerate of Clarice and Liese, showing remarkable kindness and understanding.

She excels in gathering intelligence and strategy, making her a reliable figure who supports Cerios from the shadows.

Maria

Liese’s Mother / Cerios’s Love Interest / Age Unknown (Early 30s)

Once gravely ill, she was saved by Cerios’s efforts, which led her to fall in love with him.

Now, she serves as both his maid and a supportive woman in his life.

She balances her role as Liese’s mother and as a woman devoted to Cerios, always watching over their household with warmth.

While she takes joy in Liese’s growth, she occasionally shows glimpses of jealousy.

Kanon

Knight Captain of the Egrid Territory / 21 Years Old

A calm and composed female knight with exceptional swordsmanship.

She prioritizes Cerios’s safety above all else and is a dependable leader who oversees the security of the territory.

Fearless in battle, she is willing to lead the charge when necessary. However, her occasional moments of warmth add to her charm.

She shares a strong bond with Faina and Emma, playing a key role in strengthening the team’s unity.

Emma

Leader of the Dark Guild’s Intelligence Network / 18 Years Old

Cunning and sharp-witted, known for her distinctive Kansai dialect.

She possesses an extensive information network, capable of uncovering any secrets in an instant. Acting as Cerios’s right-hand in the shadows, she works behind the scenes to support him.

Despite her playful and humorous speech, she has the resolve to make ruthless decisions when necessary.

She formed a contract with Cerios, officially becoming one of his subordinates through a mutual agreement.

Kiru

Love Interest in the Otome Game / Has Feelings for Liese / 15 Years Old

A trained assassin who was taught the art of killing from a young age.

Originally a heartless and emotionless individual, his encounter with Liese gradually awakened his human emotions.

Although he initially clashed with Cerios, he ultimately chose to step aside for Liese’s sake.

Currently, his whereabouts are unknown after being taken under Emma’s wing, leaving his future shrouded in mystery.

Arnaud

Head Butler of the Egrid Household / 48 Years Old

A highly capable steward who serves as Cerios’s right-hand man in managing the territory.

With his calm judgment and vast knowledge, he oversees the entire domain, ensuring smooth governance.

He works closely with Maria and Kanon, playing a crucial role in maintaining order within the Egrid household, even in Cerios’s absence.

Duke Everett

Clarice’s Father / Cerios’s Guardian / 50 Years Old

The head of the prestigious Everett ducal family and Clarice’s father.

A cold and calculating strategist, he constantly maneuvers through political power plays involving the royal family and the prime minister.

While he disowned Clarice, he secured the royal family’s approval to appoint a relative as the next heir of House Everett, prioritizing the survival of his family’s influence above all else.

After testing Cerios’s resolve and assessing his ambitions, he ultimately approved his marriage to Clarice.

Chancellor Albert

Plotted Liese’s Assassination / 52 Years Old

A powerful statesman who holds the true reins of the kingdom.

After his son became infatuated with Liese, he saw her as a dangerous influence and attempted to have her assassinated.

While he controls the kingdom’s affairs from behind the scenes, he remains wary of Duke Everett’s growing influence and has secretly deployed spies to monitor him.

A master manipulator known for his ruthless nature and meticulous strategies, his conflict with Cerios continues to escalate.