Chapter 7

7. Alexei-san Likes Bento.
[Alexei’s POV]
I am Alexei. I usually manage the garden of the royal palace but the truth is, I am the King’s younger brother. I am 35 years old.
… It doesn’t mean that I’m managing the garden because I have a bad relationship with my older brother.
From the start, I am not interested in the throne at all and I am contented with the kind of life I am living right now.
Incidentally, my younger brother is the Knight Commander.
Today, I am going to boast to my little brother about the 『bento Haruto made for me.
I was surprised when I first saw the bento.
Various side dishes are beautifully arranged in such a small box.
Haruto shows prodigal skill in his work but it seems like his skills are not just limited to that.
“Vice Commander! Did you see my little brother?”
I happened to see the Vice Commander, who hurriedly saluted before me.
Though I really don’t care about things like that.
“Your Highness, it is rare to see you in a place like this. If you are looking for the Commander, I think he happens to be in his office.”
“Thank you,” I answered and headed to the office.
My younger brother Alfred is in his office inside the royal palace.
“Al, I brought some lunch!”
I approached my younger brother who looks worn out.
“Elder Brother, this is rare. I was just going to take a break, too.”
“That’s good,” I said, then asked the male assistant to prepare tea.
“I had it especially made enough for two people’s share today. It’s bento.”
“Bento?” Al seemed curious when I announced it with pride.
Al’s eyes went wide when he lifted his lids.
“This is beautiful. It’s a meal that can be eaten without expressly going to the dining hall! Furthermore, it’s delicious!”
He started eating the bento ahead of me!
If I don’t hurry up, even my share will be gone at the rate he’s going.
“By the way Elder Brother, who made this? Have you finally found a lover?”
“No, I picked up a young man recently. His appearance is like that of a woman but he is considerably strong willed and very intelligent.”
“He’s working in the garden right now,” I replied, then proceeded to introduce Haruto.
Al ate the bento with surprising swiftness.
“Please express my gratitude to Haruto-san, too. It was delicious.”
I left the office while saying, “Got it.”
Thereafter, I brought bento for Al everyday and it became popular inside the royal palace.