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Melly Ndlovu has always both seemed and felt out of place. It’s just like… she wasn’t doing things she was meant to do. No, she loved her home village, her parents, but now she’s far away from it all. Completely alone, trying to earn some money for her loved ones. Melly’s mother was insisting on her finally “finding a nice commoner husband to settle down with”, but Melly didn’t feel like it. Who would even love her, a weird girl who likes to spend as much time as she can in the forest, exploring the wilderness and its inhabitants she knows nothing about? After all, Melly isn’t an entomologist for it to be a good part about her. She’s just a little weird maid.
But still… Why Melly always was feeling like her master, Luchino Diruse, could be the only one who – just a little chance – might understand her? After all, he was an entomologist. Maybe that’s why Melly has always felt so attracted to him even though he barely talked to her. Melly has never considered it a crush, but… seems like her coworkers already did.
“There always was a problem with deciding on who will serve our weird master his morning tea, good that now he got a faithful puppy-lover, right, Melly?” the head maid burst into laughter.
“He isn’t weird,” sighing, Melly was trying to ignore her nagging jokes, taking the tray to deliver it to her master.
“Why of course, just like you, my wild girl!” but the woman never wanted to stop…
Reaching Luchino’s bedroom, Melly gently knocked on the door.
“Master… your breakfast is ready,” her speech was close to whispering, but it was enough for him to hear and open the door.
“Oh, good morning, Melly! I appreciate your punctuality and gentle manners. My day always goes better when it’s you who greets me in the morning and not the other maids,” there is bright smile on his face, just like usual.
“Aw, I’m just doing my work, m-master, no need to be so kind to me… You even remembered my name while other maids are just «maids» for you,” unintentionally, Melly smiled warmly too. Luchino sees her genuine smile every day, but he never knows that it’s really unusual for Melly to smile in general. Maybe Luchino really has become someone special for her…
“Well, «Melly» means «bee» and I like bees, maybe that’s why! So, see you later, little bee,” Luchino waved Melly goodbye and closed the door.
And the rest of the day was completely insignificant, making Melly wishing night could come faster.
She has special plans for it.
When all the folks, including Luchino, went to sleep, Melly finally was able to do what she planned: sneak to her master’s study to read some of his books. Melly’s heart melted when Luchino called her a little bee, she wanted to impress him so bad. Studying entomology, especially his own researches, is the best way to get more chances to talk to her master and to make him notice her, Melly thinks.
She quietly got in, grabbing some basic entomology books and ones with Luchino’s name on them. Melly didn’t notice how minutes turned into hours, especially when she got basic knowledge and started to read the books written by Luchino himself. He just… seemed like a genius for her. His unique way of describing insects just like humans got not only into Melly’s mind, but into her heart as well. She even started to associate herself with some species. For example, with moths diving into the flame, unaware that they are facing death. Or maybe Melly’s tender feelings will end up better and she won’t die because of this «wrong love»?
Melly’s thoughts were interrupted with the sound of door opening. Oh. It must be Luchino, she completely lost track of time with reading! Well, it was too late to hide anyway…
“M-master! I’m so sorry, I wasn’t stealing anything or something, I just-,” to Melly’s surprise, Luchino didn’t seem angry, but curious.
“-Was reading my books?” Luchino glanced at his researches on the desk and then looked into Melly’s eyes with a wholesome smile. “This is… adorable. One’s thirst for knowledge always fascinates me, especially when it comes to my field. But I’m afraid my works may be too hard for a beginner to study. So… Do you mind me giving you some private lessons, Melly? I’d be happy to show you how fascinating the world of insects is if you’re interested,” Luchino’s eyes were shining in anticipation.
Melly’s heart was racing like crazy. She barely could contain her blush. Luchino wanted to spend time with her? To share his knowledge just with her in person? Wasn’t she just an ordinary maid unworthy of such attention and care? But the thought of Luchino being her teacher has made Melly feel butterflies in her stomach.
“T-thank you, master, I’d b-be happy too to learn more with your help,” she was acting even more shy and timid than usual. “Also I heard that you like to wander in the forest nearby. To return you the favor, I’d love to accompany you there – because of my family I know this forest very well since I was a child! As well as the lake near it,” Melly smiled gently, trying not to give Luchino too many infatuated glances.
“That would be great! But before we start our first lesson, you have to get some sleep. Being up all night to read books in my study instead of just asking me… Silly Melly!” Luchino pouted playfully.
“I’m touched by your concern, but the head maid won’t let me sleep during the day anyway, I’ll be fine…” But Melly still sounded tired.
“You’re welcomed to use my bedroom if you want. Please, I don’t want you to suffer because of the sleep deprivation, I need your mind fresh tomorrow, got it?”
“As you wish, my master…” Melly bowed slightly and departed to get some rest.
Luchino’s bedroom was neat and comfortable as usual. Melly would love to explore it more, but her body didn’t think so – she definitely needed some sleep. Melly was too embarrassed to change, knowing that Luchino might come in to check if she obeyed and went to sleep or not any moment, so she decided to sleep in her maid uniform.
But when Melly finally settled down on Luchino’s bed, all her drowsiness drifted away. The smell of her master on it just felt too good, let alone the intimate feeling of laying on his bed… Instead of sleeping, Melly instinctively started sniffing the sheets and cuddling the pillow. It was so comforting to imagine that Luchino was with her, was nice to her, gently tucking Melly in tons of blankets to her sleep… With that, Melly tenderly kissed the pillow and then slightly bit it, «tasting» the pleasant smell a little bit more before falling asleep, imagining that she’s in Luchino’s warm embrace.
The next morning Melly has finally fully realized her feelings for Luchino. Yes, she’s infatuated. Yes, she wants to take care of him even if she’s not getting paid. Yes, she wants to become the best version of herself for him. But it scares her so much. Melly always wants to let her guard down around Luchino, but is it safe? She wants to be vulnerable around him, but is afraid of getting hurt… But her urge to touch his heart with hers is stronger than her fear.
Melly wanted to make a special breakfast for Luchino, so she quickly got to the kitchen to cook. Too bad that the head maid was there too.
“Yesterday master said not to bother you, and you were nowhere to be seen. Naughty night and now breakfast in bed, huh?” It never was possible to say if she’s trying to insult Melly or just joking around, but Melly always was pissed off anyway.
“Not your business,” Melly huffed and continued with the cooking.
After finishing, Melly came to Luchino’s study – he might sleep there since the bedroom was occupied by her – and gently knocked on the door. There was no response, so Melly decided to come in.
In front of her was an adorable sight of Luchino sleeping peacefully on the desk. Melly couldn’t help but pat him on the head, he was too cute!
“Good morning, my master, it’s time to wake up, I made breakfast for you…” she giggled quietly, starting to play with his long hair.
“Aw, good morning, Melly,” Luchino didn’t seem confused or embarrassed by her actions at all, it looked like he was enjoying it, which has made Melly blush.
“Um-m, I’ll leave your meal here, find me in the garden when you’ll want to start our lesson!” Melly quickly ran away in a panic of suddenly feeling so many butterflies in her stomach.
“She’s so cute,” Luchino mumbled with a sincere smile as Melly left.
Melly was walking in circles in the garden both out of excitement and anxiety. She’s going to spend time with her master soon! Melly was waiting for this chance so long. She’ll finally get to know him more and listen to his cute little rants about insects. Her mind already was conjuring up pictures of them having a date in the forest, talking about pretty fireflies around them and holding hands, looking into each other’s eyes, and then being inseparable even in the manor… Aw, she couldn’t ask for more.
“Boo,” Luchino appeared out of nowhere while Melly was lost in thought. It seemed like he was amused by her reaction.
“Ah! Please don’t scare me like that,” Melly started blushing slightly again. “So… Shall we go?”
“Of course, I’ve prepared my favourite specimens I’d like to show you in my study as well, I really hope… we’re alike,” Luchino looked timid for a moment. “I should be a gentleman, shouldn’t I?” He giggled and carefully took Melly’s petite hand in his bigger one.
As they reached Luchino’s study, he let Melly in first, pointing at the sofa where she can sit, and then followed her, closing the door behind him.
“I think I should start with the basics…” Luchino started explaining the history of entomology, its terms and goals with showing Melly some pictures from his books.
“Entomology is even more interesting when I actually understand it!” Melly cooed. “But I feel like a preschooler, it’s so challenging… I’m ashamed of my poor education and social background,” she looked down and seemed sad.
“No-no-no, Melly, you’re already smarter than some of my students,” Luchino looked really concerned. “And as long as you pursue your dreams, no social background will stop you from making them come true… especially when I’m here for you, understood?” He pinched Melly’s cheek gently.
“Understood,” she giggled and took Luchino’s hand to stroke her own cheek with it for a little bit longer, enjoying the touch.
“Back to the topic…” Luchino tried to hide his blush with his hand. “Now I want to show you this,” he took a few boxes with different insect specimens, mostly butterflies.
Melly awed in admiration. “Butterflies and bees are my favourites! I even remember myself being obsessed with butterflies when I was a kid,” she was captivated by looking at her master’s collection.
“Oh, so we are alike. I love all the Pterygota too!” Luchino seemed happy that Melly was sharing his interests. “Look,” he showed her the frame with big blue butterfly contained in it, hiding some part of the frame with his hand, “it’s Morpho didius, my all-time favourite. I caught it in the forest of Ecuador when I was on an expedition there. All butterflies have a special meaning for me. For example, this symbolizes wisdom, imagination, inspiration, loyalty, stability and trust because of its bright blue colour. And… I’d like to give it to you,” Luchino handed the frame to her, revealing the name «Melly» on it.
“Master, you-,” but Melly was interrupted.
“Yes, I was thinking about you for a while, even before I discovered you was sneaking to my study to read. So don’t you dare thinking you don’t deserve my attention! You aren’t just an ordinary maid, I see a brilliant mind and an iron will in you. You’re special,” with that, Luchino gave Melly a quick peck on the cheek and then playfully pushed her out of the room, shouting a sweet “Good night!” afterwards.
Obviously, it was impossible for Melly to fall asleep because of all these thoughts about Luchino’s actions going through her mind. Was she really so special for him? But why? What if… he tries to get close so fast only to hurt her in the end? What if he is the flame she is diving into? Melly didn’t want to think about it, Luchino seemed so sweet after all, and her butterflies in the stomach only agreed. But she has to be cautious anyway, no matter how much she adores him…
Melly failed to notice how night has turned into sunrise while she was just sitting in the hallway near Luchino’s study, lost in thought, to the point that she was met by Luchino coming out from his study, looking for Melly.
“M-Melly?! Why are you still there? I thought you’ll use my bedroom just like yesterday, I mean it’s ok for you to do so, that’s why I stayed in my study…” Luchino seemed disappointed, even though he wasn’t sure if it’s Melly’s bad sleeping habits or her distrust of him. But he sincerely wanted to fix both.
“S-sorry, my master, I was a little bit off during the night because of the yesterday…” Melly had a pitiful look on her face like she was about to cry, looking down and playing with her fingers.
Luchino’s heart fell with the realization. Did his actions creep Melly out? Did he just harass her by being too intense and implying romance things she has never asked for? Oh God, he shouldn’t have done it, he just scared his beloved away, most likely forever. “I’m terribly sorry if my actions hurt you, Melly! I’ve never meant to scare you, my actions were… inappropriate yesterday. I’m so sorry,” Luchino looked down guiltily, afraid of touching Melly and making things even worse.
“N-no, it was completely ok! I just don’t know how to react to prove that I’m worthy of your attention and kindness. I want it, but I always feel like I don’t deserve it…” Melly still looked shy and scared, but now there was blush on her cheeks.
Knowing that everything is ok and Melly likes him romantically, Luchino became more easy-going again and wanted to tease such a cutie pie as Melly more. “Hey, don’t say that. Animal research is always fun, and humans are a type of animal too. So, I’m quite curious about you. What makes you so interested in me?” Luchino was touched by Melly’s words about him, he really appreciated her affection.
Overcoming her shyness, Melly pouted. “Isn’t it obvious! You’re a perfect man. Smart, kind, funny, mysterious, romantic, always a gentleman-”
“Oh, I thought my attitude would be too rough for such a pure maiden as you and that I wasn’t good enough with my courtship, hmm,” Luchino smiled.
Melly didn’t know why, but now she wasn’t scared of Luchino, she was ready to trust him her heart and soul. He just looked so sincere and wholesome at the moment. “Didn’t you get that no matter what you do with me, I won’t resist?..” Melly took Luchino’s hand to stroke her cheek with it again, but this time coming closer, implying that he can hug her. “My master…” Melly sang happily.
Luchino flinched at the sudden physical contact with Melly. She looked so petite now, and her hands were so warm… “Oh Melly. You don’t really have to be so nice with me, I adore your gloomy side no less. My little bee,” Luchino spoke softly, hugging Melly tightly and rubbing her back gently. “And please, call me Luchino. You always were more than just a maid for me after all. It was a nightmare, not seeing you every morning when you came back to your parents’ place during your vacation… I hate to be separated from you. I love you, Melly,” Luchino wrapped his hands around Melly’s waist and buried his face in her chest.
“I love you too, my ma- I mean Luchino!” Melly pulled Luchino closer and started patting his head slowly. “I would happily greet you every morning if you so wish…” Melly gently kissed his forehead. “Even though I enjoy our evening lessons way more,” she giggled.
Luchino remembered one thing all of sudden. “Hey, Melly… I want to show you something,” he smiled, getting some small sheets of paper out of his shirt pocket and showing them to Melly. There were 3 drawings: Melly dancing in the forest with hundreds of butterflies flying around her; smiling Melly reading a book in Luchino’s study; and a simple Melly’s portrait covered in hearts. “I drew it… It was helping me to cope with not having you by my side for too long,” Luchino chuckled nervously.
“Luchino…” Melly was out of words, the romantic gesture was just too sweet that she wanted to make cute drawings of Luchino too. They’d perfectly fit her shrine of him. “Well, now you have the original all to yourself… I promise you won’t feel lonely anymore, Luchi,” Melly giggled and kissed Luchino’s lips for the first time.
“M-Melly!” the kiss felt so good to the point that after Luchino just kept clinging to Melly, unable to break away.
“My Luchi,” Melly couldn’t stop smiling at her now lover, “how about… going to the nearby forest for a walk? I promised to show you around, and I want you to tell me everything about local specimens or I’ll die without your rants,” she murmured.
“Sure,” Luchino smiled and quickly picked Melly up to princess carry her, holding her close. “It’s a date!” After covering Melly in a lot of gentle kisses and snuggling with her for a little bit, Luchino started to walk towards the exit of the manor.
Melly rested her head on Luchino’s shoulder and affectionately rubbed his hand with hers during the walk, feeling so comfortable and happy around him, unable to take her eyes off Luchino.
Melly loved him so much, and she won’t let their love wither no matter what.