I actually got along with Finn pretty well. So he became a part of my awkward harem of friends.

In the game, Isaiah wasn't friends with any of the love interests, so I already changed a lot.

It didn't matter, because I forgot about one of the love interests.

A king from another country.

See, the likelihood I'd actually meet him was low, considering his route was extremely hard to get in the game.

Yet, he was right in front of me, with pale blonde hair and golden eyes that could rival Liam's.

What was he doing here?

King Elliot Woods.

Our emperor ruled over most of the land, but the neighboring countries only housed kings, not emperors.

Still, they held a lot of power.

What was King Elliot Woods doing here?

"Well, you're quite a flower, aren't you?"

Huh?

"I'm sorry?" I spoke, confused.

Elliot smiled kindly towards me, "you are strong. I've heard about you from my own country, so I thought I'd pay you a visit."

"I'm honored. I'm not much to see however."

"Nonsense, your strength is incredible!"

Ugh. Right, power. He was someone who wanted the strongest people by his side. You were only able to unlock his route after becoming the strongest in the game.

So i guess I was the strongest. Lucky me.

If I was the female protagonist, he'd ask for my hand in marriage, which would lead to eventually falling in love and accepting.

Since I was a guy, there was no way that would happen.

"You're quite a strange man," I said calmly, hoping he'd leave.

"Strange, yes, but I need someone like you by my side. While it is unconventional, would you marry me?"

What?

WHAT!?

"I'm sorry, I must've misheard you," I said calmly, confused. He was kidding right?

Elliot shook his head, "you didn't mishear. I asked you to marry me."

"I can't give you children," I rationalized.

He didn't even hesitate. "Strength isn't always inherited. Besides, I have a sister who could bear your child to keep it royal."

"Gross."

"I'm presenting options. I don't need some woman by my side. I want someone strong, like you."

I sighed at that, pinching the bridge of my nose. "As... interesting as that sounds, I already have someone I love. I plan to confess to them when I turn twenty one, so I have to reject your offer."

"Well, the offer stands, if you ever decide to take it. I don't back down easily."

Another sigh, "for some reason, I can tell." I then smiled, "did you even ask for my name, or give me yours?"

Elliot flustered at that, "I'm king Elliot woods of Gavaria. Pleased to make your acquaintance."

"Lord Isaiah Reynolds."

"Isaiah, are you around here?" I heard Damon call out.

God, hopefully this bastard wouldn't say anything.

"Over here!" I shouted. Damon made his way over, along with Liam and Finn. This ragtag group of love interests was growing.

"Who's this clown?" Liam snorted as they approached.

"King Elliot Woods of Gavaria."

"Oh, more royalty!" Liam retorted with a snort.

Damon eyes Elliot, not sure what to make of him. "So, what brings you to our empire?"

"I heard that their was a powerful lord here, so I came to search. And make them mine. But he rejected me."

"Of course i'd reject you! I don't know you!"

Damon seemed to find that a bit funny, "Isaiah's a man you know?"

"Who cares about gender?" Elliot snorted. "All I see is a strong individual who'd I love to have by my side."

The group didn't seem to care much, which made my shoulders feel a little less burdened.

"How would that even work anyway?" Damon asked.

Elliot pondered then question, "well, mostly he'd just be husband by name. We wouldn't share a room or anything like that. It's like having him a s a commander, but a better position. Since I have a sister, it's not like royal children are an issue."

"Why not try to marry them instead?" Finn suggested.

"Why would I give someone so powerful away?"

"It doesn't matter anyway, because I said no. And I'm not going anywhere without a fight."

"I understand. Still, you're an interesting man, it will be interesting to see how you develop."

"How old are you? You're starting to sound strange."

"I'm twenty two!"

Everyone laughed at his childish exclamation and I felt pretty content in the scene.

Then, I felt overwhelmingly dizzy and nauseous. It struck me at once. Why?

Ugh.

"Isaiah?"

"I'm fine, just dizzy," I assured.

"Isaiah!"

I felt something hard against my head, but my vision went dark.

I was still conscious, I believe, because i heard muffled panicked shouts, but nothing really was processing.

What was happening? Things were fine.

I felt pressure at back and legs, specially behind my knees.

Was someone carrying me?

I felt my head pressed up against something, a heat at my cheek and ear. Firm, strong....

"Why'd you have to faint all the sudden?"

"D-Damon?"

I recognized the worried voice, and he stiffened at my voice, but relaxed as he carried me since I was otherwise unresponsive.

Why couldn't I do anything?

Pain seared into my head and all I could think about was my last life.

Oh god. Why?

"Alex, aren't you going to get married?" A coworker asked.

I shook my head, "it's not really something I see for myself."

My longtime friend Lisa, who became a teacher with me, rushed to my defense. "He promised to marry someone ages ago, but they're no longer with us. So he wants to still honor their wish."

"She'd want you to be happy."

Yeah... she.

"But I see them in everyone who approaches me. I don't think I'll ever be ready to move on."

That much was true. When I died... they were all on my mind. Just them.

But I forgot about them...

I'm sorry.

I'm so sorry.

I want to be with you, but I want to be happy.

Not like I'll get that in either life.

No.

He'd understand.

I miss him, and Lisa.

If either of them were here, they'd know what to do.