Please get me out of this BL novel...I'm straight! novel Chapter 199

Chapter 199: ’Give Her Time’

Augustus gestured toward a small, run-down house, its wooden frame warped from years of exposure to the elements. The roof sagged slightly, its edges frayed like an old, tattered cloak, and the door, barely clinging to its hinges, looked like it had endured one too many storms.

The entire structure exuded an air of abandonment, as if it had been left to wither alongside the memories of those who once called it home.

"The owners sadly passed away a few months ago," Augustus explained, his voice tinged with quiet sorrow. "It has been empty ever since."

He hesitated, eyes briefly flickering toward Florian, gauging his reaction. "I know it must be a downgrade from what you’re used to in the Diamond Palace... but this is the best we can offer on such short notice."

Florian attempted a smile, but the effort felt hollow. It wasn’t the state of the house that unsettled him—he had lived in luxury, yes, but that was never something he had deeply cared for. No, what gnawed at him now was the bitter aftertaste of his own words, spoken in anger, words he could not take back.

’And because...’

"Is this house... for me and Anastasius to share?"

His gaze flitted across the small village, searching for any other vacant homes, any alternative. But there were none. This was it. A single, tiny dwelling that was smaller than his own bedroom back at the palace. A space barely enough for one, yet meant for two.

’Meaning he and Heinz would be in close proximity. Unavoidably so.’

"Yes. I’m sure you don’t mind, right?" Augustus said, his tone light, almost teasing. "You’re both men, anyway."

Florian’s stomach twisted. ’As if that was the concern.’

Augustus adjusted his grip on his cane before offering them a small, knowing smile. "Make yourselves at home. I’ll return once I receive word from Leila. She’s been feeling worse than usual. I imagine she’s still upset since Levi left without warning."

Florian exhaled slowly. ’I want to say no, but we’ve intruded enough as it is.’

Reluctantly, he nodded. "Thank you, Chief Augustus."

"It is my pleasure. Rest well."

Augustus turned, his steps slow and deliberate as he made his way down the dirt path. But just as he was about to disappear from sight, he hesitated, then glanced back over his shoulder.

’Oh? Does he have more to say?’

"One more thing." His voice was softer now, but there was something weighted in it. "Most of the villagers are still wary of you—as you know. So if some are... less than welcoming, try to understand. We’ve been through a lot this past year."

Florian resisted the urge to shoot Heinz a pointed ’See? I told you’ look.

Because, just like that, he remembered why he was mad again.

"We understand, Chief," Florian said, quieter now. "Thank you for letting us wait for Leila. I really hope... she’ll speak to us."

"She will." Augustus gave a knowing smile. "Just give her time."

And with that, the old man was gone, leaving only Florian, Heinz, and the small dragon perched on Florian’s shoulder.

A long silence followed.

Florian didn’t speak.

Heinz didn’t speak.

’For now.’

He wanted to say something—wanted to let the anger spill out, to lash Heinz with words sharper than blades, to make him understand. But exhaustion dragged at him like chains.

’Is he sad that I’m arguing with his master?’

’Shit.’