Ignoring Anna's puzzled expression, Ryuto continued.

"Even if you don't mind, I cannot pretend that this never happened."

Yes, Ryuto was well aware that Anna had no friends and found it difficult to trust others precisely because of her surname. Every attempt to get close to someone, whether to establish a relationship with her father or due to resentment towards her father’s identity, was linked to her surname. Ryuto understood all of this, but despite that knowledge, he still used her surname. Even with the intention to save others and even with the consent of the person involved and the prior agreement obtained, the harm inflicted would not be erased and the reality could not be denied.

While Ryuto was uncertain of what others might do, he, nonetheless, could not pretend ignorance nor turn a blind eye to the situation. All he could do now was apologize. Of course, Ryuto didn't expect forgiveness. Even being blamed for this was only just. However, knowing he wouldn't be forgiven, Ryuto didn't want to hide anything. He believed he should, at the very least, do what he could and what was right.

Anna simply smiled faintly and spoke softly.

"I'm serious, Ryuto. I truly don't mind. In fact...I feel happy now."

"Huh...?"

Ryuto raised his eyebrows in astonishment.

To be honest, I've always despised my surname. Because of it, I was forced to learn various things from a young age, whether it was etiquette, makeup, or anything else. The truth is, I had no interest in any of it. After all...learning etiquette and makeup was merely for socializing at receptions and maintaining the image of Delance Anna. In reality, there was no place for me as just a regular person named Anna from the beginning. Many people may envy me and my surname, envy me for being the daughter of a Marquis. But...I've thought more than once, how much better it would be if my surname wasn't Delance. I've imagined not having a Marquis as a father, not being a Marquis's daughter but just being born into an ordinary family where I could do what I liked and make genuine friends. Even though I understand these are just unrealistic fantasies, I’ve indulged in them repeatedly. Even knowing it's an unchangeable fact, these absurd fantasies never ceased. Of course, I've always kept these thoughts buried deep within me, never shared them with anyone, thinking I'd never have the chance in my life, as I lacked friends with whom I could share sincere conversations. But now, with true friends by my side, I'll confide in Ryuto. However..."

Softly closing her eyes, Anna resumed speaking.

"I feel content now. I never expected that all these uninteresting things I learned in the past could actually help someone, whether it's makeup and social skills or the surname I've always disliked. I'm happy that I could help that little girl. So, I won't indulge in fantasies anymore. I won't dream of unrealistic things. Although things cannot be changed, it's fine. What matters most is how you use those skills. Even seemingly useless skills in the past have their usefulness and can assist others. For the first time, I find joy in my surname because I understand that if I were really just an ordinary person as I once hoped, I'd be powerless at this moment. Therefore, I'm grateful for my identity as Delance Anna. Ryuto made me realize this, so I don't blame him. Not because we're friends, but because I genuinely want to thank him for helping me see this.”

With a smile on her face and a hand over her chest, Anna concluded,

"Of course, in Ryuto's eyes, I will always be that ordinary Anna, the one who isn't a Marquis's daughter and has nothing, the Anna who exists as a common person."