This story takes place in Year 1. Marius is not yet in a relationship with the MC.
At the von Hagen Estate, Vincent arrives with a long-awaited package: an ornate jade comb that was personally designed by Marius, which Marius has been anxious about all day. Marius tries to claim he wasn't anxious, but Payton painstakingly recounts the numerous times throughout the day Marius has been concerned about the package's status. Marius finally admits he was nervous, explaining in detail how much effort has gone into the comb. Over dinner, he ruminates over his lack of plan for his love confession, recalling a conversation with Sheldon Harrison warning Marius that the MC might not share his confidence about being in the public eye.
While trying to help Marius come up with a plan, Vincent suggests he draw inspiration from an over-the-top confession in TV dramas, while Payton suggests Marius focus on voicing his feelings. When Marius retires to his room, Payton asks Austin to call Marius and advise him. Austin calls Marius and agrees with Payton: while Marius is concerned with making a grand impression to maximize his chances, it should really be about what he says, not where he says it. He suggests that Marius focus on the most irreplaceable thing in the relationship, which inspires Marius to two weeks of artistic work. When he's finished, Marius invites the MC for a private exhibition at the estate.
The MC arrives at the estate, surprised to be the first guest. When Marius compliments her dress, she claims she picked it at random but recalls agonizing over it until selecting one that would look good next to Marius in his signature formal suit. She also remembers her anxiety over how to tell him that she has feelings for him, unsure whether he feels the same way. Marius leads her into the garden, where a series of paintings detail Marius' life from childhood to the present day, beginning in shades of grey that gain slight color when he sees his brother find love, then burst into brilliant color when he meets the MC. He names the exhibition "The Irreplaceable One" and calls the MC his paradise as the gallery continues through paintings of their precious memories. He explains that his life has been perfect since he met her and gifts her the jade comb while she struggles to voice her own feelings. When he asks whether she loves him, she tells him that she does, and despite her worries about holding him back, she's not going to run away. Finally, he kisses her and formally asks her to be his girlfriend, and she agrees.
Illustrations
One HeartThe jade comb in your hand is small and delicate. It feels warmth to the touch, retaining the temperature of Marius' palm.
Token
Token examination
Description
For [Player]: I've given you the key to my heart and no one else, that is how I feel towards you.
Comb teeth
Marius: A comb allows you to 'comb' through your thoughts, solving troubles and relieving stress.
Marius: It can comb your hair when it's tangled and also soothe your troubled mind.
Flat comb body
Marius: I selected this piece of jade intentionally. It's spotless and clear.
Marius: You can use it as a comb or wear it around as a charm.
Flowers
Marius: I designed the pattern of the jade myself.
Marius: White is the purest and most clean color. These white rosebuds are known to represent pure love.
Marius: You are the first and only girl who makes my heart flutter. I truly hope you like this design.
