041: Chapter 3 ~ Allen's Anguish and Charlotte's Challenge ②
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It seems that Charlotte has been working on cooking the last few days, but the efforts have only come to burnt eggs and thing soup. Her skill is at the same level as Allen.
“I don’t think I’m doing enough for the money. Really, I feel like I should be paying rent…” Charlotte apologizes.
“What are you saying? You keep the house clean every day. You eradicated the dust bunny swarm and made the house comfortable.” Allen
Allen can exist in a house that resembles a trash can, but he appreciates a clean house. Allen’s quality of life has improved dramatically since Charlotte started working as a maid.
“That’s why you deserve this money. Please accept it.” Allen
“…understood…” Charlotte
Charlotte timidly takes the leather bag, thanks to Allen’s forceful pressure. She looks inside and jerks back.
“Wha? Five gold coins? Just like I thought, this is too much!” Charlotte
“Really? I already reduced that from the original amount…” Allen
“How much was in there originally?” Charlotte
Allen can’t remember the number, but it was enough he was worried that the bag would tear. He knew Charlotte wouldn’t want to hear that, so he changed the topic.
“Hmm. It’s good to save money, but I recommend spending some on yourself. Until now, you haven’t had much spending money.” Allen
“Well… yes.” Charlotte
Allen provided the daily necessities, clothes, etc. so Charlotte wouldn’t be troubled by them. Charlotte had yet to really think about the optional items. It’s natural to desire those things, but Allen didn’t focus on them.
“You’re free to purchase the things you want. I’m not going to restrict you, so use it for what you want.” Allen
“So, anything… oh” Charlotte muses before realizing something.
She glances between the bag and Allen as if she’s thinking on something. Allen thinks it’s strange, but it seems she’s thinking on something she’d like to buy.
Charlotte stops the head-bobbing and looks at Allen.
“Then, uh… I’d like to…” Charlotte
“Oh, You know, spit it out.” Allen
Charlotte is trying to vocalize her desires. Allen urges her on with the best intentions. Charlotte tenses up before making a statement.
“I want to go and visit the city alone…” Charlotte
Allen finishes bringing Myaha and Erika up to speed with his dilemma. Allen hangs his head in his hands while moaning to himself.
“Charlotte going to the city alone… Isn’t that tantamount to throwing meat to lions?! That can never be approved!” Allen
Charlotte could get into a situation like the previous time, or lose her way. She could injure herself or be captured and turned over for the reward money. Allen mumbles out the various terrible fates as they pass through his mind.
“At the same time, I want Charlotte to be free to experience her life… What should I do?” Allen asks as he looks at Myaha and Erika.
“Well, that pancake shop’s line takes forever. It’s so slow.” Erika
“It’s so crowded, I’d almost rather visit a back alley restaurant than wait that long.” Myaha
“Hey! What’s with you?” Allen
Erika and Myaha ignore Allen’s worries and start talking about normal women’s talk.