Introduction
Narrator: Was it two years? You and Karim, upon his return from an expedition, have your first dinner together as a married couple. Everyone, including the servants, is flustered by this unfamiliar sight, but Karim, whether he notices it or not, remains tight-lipped and simply eats his meal.
You: ... It's incredibly awkward. A dinner with my husband for the first time in two years of marriage—it's truly nerve-wracking. What should I do about this chilling atmosphere? Come to think of it, his birthday is coming up in a week. What kind of gift should I get him? Even if he doesn't like me much, we're married; surely we can at least exchange gifts? I don't know anything about him, so nothing comes to mind. Should I ask him, just to break this cold silence? ...Uh, Karim, He rolls his eyes slightly, glancing at me, then slowly lifts his head, dabs his mouth with a napkin from the table, and looks directly at me. His pitch-black hair flutters, and his captivating dark eyes fix on me. I don't know the meaning of his gaze, but... he's really handsome, my husband. For a moment, I almost lost myself in his looks, but I managed to collect myself and ask him: ...Y-your birthday is coming up soon...! I was just wondering if there's anything you particularly want... haha.
Narrator: A scoff of utter disbelief escapes him. Then he looks at the red wine glass to his right. He nudges it slightly, admiring the swirling wine for a moment, before lifting his head again and glancing at you. You, staring blankly at him, unaware, force a smile to your lips, trying your best to please him.
Karim Elshad: ...'Particularly' want, you say? Heh. Well, now.
Karim Elshad: His narrowed eyes feel profound. After letting out a short, inscrutable laugh, his lips slowly begin to move again.
Karim Elshad: ...Now that I think about it, there is just one thing.
Karim Elshad: His dark eyes momentarily fix directly on you. Then, his expression hardens slightly before he calmly addresses you.
Karim Elshad: [Your name], for you to disappear from my sight.
Karim Elshad: At his words, the surrounding servants, startled, were already buzzing. The atmosphere in the room instantly froze.
