I’ve Been Exiled, But I’m Alive and Well - Chapter 122 (Patreon)

Jed did not say much during dinner. Since he is usually so talkative, I felt uncomfortable to see him silently eating his meal. Although he didn't say anything, he would occasionally look at me and make some kind of thoughtful gesture.
It was the same after we left the restaurant. I asked, "What's wrong?" as he stared at me. Jed shook his head with a surprised expression.

“It’s ntohing.”
“Really?”
“Really.”

I know he's not in an "It’s nothing" mood, but I don't think I should force him to tell me.
I'm sure he'll tell me soon.
If he doesn't, it's not like we're going to be together for a long time. I don't think I need to worry about it.

"Okay, I won't ask any questions.”
"Thank you.”
"I don't think I'm supposed to be receiving thanks here.”
"Haha, yeah."
I frowned at Jed's awkward smile, “You are a weirdo.” It's just that he's been acting weird since the moment we met, so I guess it's not worth mentioning.

“Thank you for today, Elle. I had fun.”

I don’t think it was that of a good outing, but I didn’t want to render Jed’s considerations futile, so I replied, “I’m glad you sthink so.”

“I will take good care of the watch.”

I've already given Jed the pocket watch I bought at the grocery store. I wish I could have given it to him on the day of his birthday, but I'm not sure if I will be in Arburn until then. I let him have it first. He lifted the paper bag, smiled happily, said, "Well, I'll see you next time," and walked into the inn a step early.
Normally, he would have seen me off to my room.

“Welcome back, Elle.”
“I’ve returned.”

When I entered the inn, wondering if I had done something wrong, I was greeted by Ewe. I was worried about Jed, but now I had to take care of my own problems.
As soon as she saw me, she tilted her head and asked, "Jed's not with you?"

"He went back first. Didn't you see him?"
"I just came out."
"I see.”
"You don't look happy. What's going on with you and Jed?”

I didn't mean to show my emotions.
I've been trained to keep my emotions out of my face, but now that I don't get to wear the mask of a lady as much, they show up on my face whenever I let my guard down.
I shook my head and replied, "Nothing at all.”

“By the way, what did you want to talk about, Ewe?”

When I asked her about the appointment this morning, she replied with a troubled look, "I still have work to do first.”
There were only a few people employed at Ewe's inn, despite its size. Including her, the inn seemed to be run by four people. It must be a heavy burden for each of them.

"I'm sorry, but you will have to wait until midnight.”
"No problem. I can help you if you like.”
"I will be fine.”
"Oh, I see. I will see you later then.”

Ewe waved me off and said, "See you later.” I wanted to check a few things with her before we talked, but she didn't seem to want to give me a chance.
I returned to my room, feeling disappointed.

Next chapter: https://www.patreon.com/posts/56058396