Though I Don’t Recall It, I’ll Take Responsibility - Chapter 18

“Professor, I have become Raphael Westray. I look forward to continuing my studies with you.”

In the study, where the sunlight streamed refreshingly through the window, Ral gave a deep, formal bow as if he were at an actual ball.

My, a new pattern for his self-introduction. Melissa gave a small round of applause. Children really do grow up so fast.

“So, you have become Raphael Westray-kun. Well then, I look forward to working with you once again.”

“Yes!”

Ral replied with a bit of a bashful smile, then straightened his posture perfectly.

“Professor, I am Aira Westray. And this is Clarice Westray. You may already be aware, but I have lost my memory. While I have no trouble with daily life, I apologize if I commit any discourtesies. It is a pleasure to meet you.”

I performed an elegant curtsy.

Beside me, Liz also dipped her knees slightly, imitating me with a grace that was somehow even more dainty than my own. Lucy gave a small round of applause.

Does my child have too much potential?

“Thank you for your polite greeting, Madam. My name is Robert Davis. Truth be told, I was Leonard-sama’s tutor when he was a boy. Because of that connection, I have taken on the responsibility of tutoring Raphael-sama as well.”

Professor Robert, who looked to be in his fifties, had a voice as soft and fluffy as a cloud.

I wanted to punch my past self for having such a hideously rude imagination—thinking that the tutor of a “mistress’s son” would be someone more… well, less than this. He seemed incredibly sincere.

“I had not heard that you lost your memory… though it is true that your image is a bit different from before.”

He was a true gentleman. While saying “it’s different,” his expression remained fixed in a steady smile.

This man is capable. He’s the type who would never let a single unnecessary word slip. He is trustworthy.

“Professor, I don’t wish to intrude, but would it be alright if I observed the lesson for a while?”

“Yes, of course. You must be concerned, so please, watch to your heart’s content.”

Ral wore an enthusiastic expression that practically screamed, “Watch me!”

Once the lesson began, Professor Robert’s gentle voice filled the room. His calm tone somehow resembled both Leonard-sama and Ral.

Ah, so their nature was thanks to this man’s education. I felt strangely convinced.

Liz observed Ral seriously at first, but she soon let out a tiny sigh and tugged lightly on Lucy’s sleeve. The universal signal for “I’m bored.”

Lucy gave a wry smile, took her hand, and led her out to the garden. Once the room grew quiet, I spoke softly.

“Professor. Today, I realized that the reason Ral has grown into such a good boy is thanks to you.”

Professor Robert wore a look of “Eh?” on his face. The way his surprise was so understated was, again, very refined.

Ral’s “that woman” comment was, no matter how I looked at it, purely an attempt to please Lara. He surely hadn’t said it to anyone else. His cuteness and good character were definitely the influence of this professor.

“Actually, I have known Raphael-kun since he was born. As he grew older, well… I became rather worried.”

Yes, Professor.

Worried about “Lara’s influence,” right?

You don’t even have to finish the sentence; I understand perfectly.

“Leonard-sama lost his parents at a young age and became an Earl very early. His honesty and purity are points to be proud of, but unfortunately, he also has aspects that are concerning for a nobleman. I regret that I should have taught him more than just academics.”

Yes, Professor. I understand that too.

After all, Leonard-sama fell right into Lara’s trap. Of course,, you’d be worried.

“Raphael-kun’s temperament is similar to Leonard-sama’s. I thought to myself rudely, perhaps that I had to do something, which is why I accepted this position.”

What a wonderful person he is.

“Professor, tutoring isn’t your only profession, is it? What do you do normally?”

He had a family name, after all. He must have another job.

“Actually, I am a scholar. I’ve published several books recently. I spend most of my time on research.”

Robert.

Robert Davis.

Wait… Robert Davis?!

N-No way—.

“P-Professor. By any chance, are you a scholar of herbalism?”

“You are well-informed. It is not very widely known.”

“No, I know you very well! I even read the thesis you wrote during your student days! You’ve even published books? To be honest, I was… I was so looking forward to entering the Academy and researching herbalism just like you. But I have no memory of that time, and I likely haven’t studied at all.”

As I spoke, I felt like I was about to burst into tears. Oh, my youth… where did it go?

“I see. That is truly a pity. Lost time cannot be returned, but if you like, shall I bring the books I’ve written the next time I visit?”

“R-Really?! Oh, God does exist! These past few days, I was acting as though I doubted His existence. I will look forward to it immensely!”

Oh, how wonderful. Today is a lucky day. I feel as if I can see a halo shining behind the Professor.

“If there are parts I don’t understand while reading, would it be alright to ask you during the breaks in Ral’s studies?”

“Yes, certainly. In fact, it would be a pleasure.”

Oh, Professor. What a delightful man.

Knock, knock, knock.

“Mother, are you finished?”

Liz entered the room, clutching a handful of flowers in one hand.

“Your big brother’s studies aren’t over yet. Shall we leave the room so he can concentrate?”

“Yes, here you go.”

Here you go? Ah, she means she’s giving me the flowers.

“Are these for me?”

“A souvenir for Mother!”

Liz proudly held out her bouquet. I looked at Lucy, who added an explanation with a soft smile.

“She got them from the gardener in the garden. Liz-sama was very busy giving instructions, saying she wanted to ‘collect flowers that are the same color as Mother’s hair.'”

My goodness.

“Thank you, Liz. They are such lovely flowers. I want to decorate the room with them, so let’s go together.”

“Yes!”

Liz smiled like a flower herself and gripped my hand tightly.