In his past life, Brando had gotten this exact same harsh chewing-out from the king. Back then, though, he'd been seething with rebellion. He'd talked back to the king right to his face, even spitting out a bold threat that one day, he'd make Solenne give up her title as Marchioness.
Looking back on it now, the whole thing seemed utterly absurd and laughable.
This time around, Brando stood still with his knees slightly bent, his tone calm and steady, not a single trace of defiance in his voice. "I know my mistake, Father, and I will take whatever punishment you think I deserve."
The king blinked in surprise. The long, scathing lecture he'd rehearsed in his head got stuck in his throat all at once, impossible to force out.
He cleared his throat, his expression softening. "As long as you
