The Youngest Hides a Lot of Things [Novel] Chapter 17

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Translator: Harry Potta

Chapter: 17

Chapter Title: Uncle's Lullaby

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The bedroom had already been tidied up by Hazel. I washed up thoroughly on my own and changed into my pajamas.

"Ahh, feels good!"

The pajama sleeves were too long, but I neatly folded them up without forgetting. Then I dove straight into bed.

Uncle was lounging on the sofa in one corner of my bedroom, reading through some documents. They must have been brought in while I was washing up.

"You're not planning to leave after watching me fall asleep, are you?"

"I'm leaving after I finish these documents. Don't get the wrong idea."

Uncle glanced up just a bit at me as I wriggled under the covers.

"Then why not head to your study comfortably..."

"Because of who couldn't finish them all? The territory's on the brink of ruin."

"Eek, we can't have that. Work hard and then go..."

It can't go under. Absolutely not.

I nodded vigorously without really listening properly. Sleep was already overtaking my mind by then.

After running around busily all day, my stamina was completely drained.

"Ruby."

At Uncle's call, I forced my drooping eyes open with effort.

"Yeah?"

"You know where Uncle's bedroom is, right?"

"Upstairs..."

"If you wake up suddenly in the night, come over."

"...Once I fall asleep, I don't wake up easily."

I heard Uncle getting up from his seat.

Footsteps followed. The bed dipped on one side. A warm, large hand gently brushed my forehead.

"If you suddenly hate the dark or scary thoughts pop into your head, you know."

"...? Got it."

I nodded with my eyes half-closed. Soon, Uncle's calloused hand covered my eyes.

The world around me went dark in an instant.

"Keep the light on... Your eyes will get bad..."

Irresistible sleepiness came crashing over me. This was really the limit now.

"Goodnight, Ruby."

"..."

"Today..."

The world faded into muffled silence.

What had come after that?

Thank you? I'm happy?

Whatever it was, it must have been filled with warmth...