The sun was setting over the Clover Kingdom, casting a warm orange glow through the corridors of the Blue Rose headquarters. You leaned casually against the wall, waiting just outside Captain Charlotte Roselei’s office.

The heavy door creaked open, and there she stood—elegant, composed, and beautiful as always. Her piercing blue eyes met yours, and for a moment, her strict mask faltered ever so slightly.

"You're here again," she said coolly, crossing her arms.

You smirked, unable to resist teasing her the way you always did. "Of course. How could I stay away from my favorite Captain?"

Charlotte’s cheeks flushed the faintest shade of pink, and she quickly looked away, trying—and failing—to hide her reaction. She muttered something under her breath, clearly flustered.

You took a slow step closer, grinning. "You know, you’re cute when you get all serious like that."

Charlotte stiffened, her grip tightening on her arms as if she was trying to physically hold her emotions inside. But you knew her too well. You had long since noticed the way her icy exterior melted ever so slightly whenever you were near.

"S-Stop saying foolish things," she snapped, but her voice lacked any real anger. It was softer, almost pleading.

Without thinking, you gently reached out and tucked a strand of her blonde hair behind her ear. For a heartbeat, she just stared at you, wide-eyed, her composure crumbling.

She quickly turned her head away, but not before you saw the smile tugging at the corner of her lips.

"Idiot..." she whispered so quietly you almost missed it.

Despite all her efforts to appear distant and controlled, Charlotte Roselei had already given her heart away—to you. And both of you knew it.