Chapter 78: What did he do?

Following the conclusion of our lunch, Aria and I decided to find a secluded space to engage in a private conversation.

Alex, in particular, appeared somewhat disheartened, likely harboring the wish to ask Aria out once more.

Nevertheless, it seemed he was slowly realizing Aria's lack of interest in him, evident in her interactions that often left him ignored.

Even Louise, Tristan, and I found ourselves in a slightly awkward position, observing the dynamics that unfolded between Aria and Alex.

The atmosphere in the private training room became charged with an unexpected intensity as Aria posed a direct question, her crimson eyes fixed on me like unyielding rubies.

As she traversed the center of the training floor, she halted, turning to face me with a gravity that demanded sincerity.

"Adrian," she began, her voice carrying a weight that echoed through the room her crimson red eyes hot through me with intensity, "What do you think of me?"

I hesitated for a moment, feeling the weight of Aria's question. Her eyes, a deep shade of crimson, seemed to hold more than just curiosity.

It made me wonder what she was truly asking – was it about how I saw her physically, the way she acted, or something deeper?

As I reflected on her question, a jumble of conflicting emotions swirled within me. Initially, I had labeled her as a Bitch, but that perception had shifted.

My thoughts on Aria were now entangled in a complex web of feelings—some tainted with resentment, others with desire, and an odd strand of affection.

It was as if I were navigating a maze of emotions, with each turn bringing forth a different sentiment.

Truth be told, the line between my genuine sentiments and the lingering influence of Adrian's personality was blurred.

There was an internal struggle, a clash between Ian and Adrian, leaving me in a state of uncertainty.

A part of me felt an inexplicable urge to confront her, perhaps influenced by Adrian's lingering animosity.

Yet, another part grappled with a strange mix of emotions, making it difficult to discern what was truly mine and what was his.

"I don't know"

Aria's eyes widened momentarily, but a gentle smile curved on her lips. She looked at me with an affectionate gaze, acknowledging the sincerity in my words.

"Is that so?" She mused softly, her tone holding a hint of both surprise and amusement. "I can see in your eyes that you're not lying, huh? So, that's what you truly feel about me." Her words carried a mixture of emotions, and she continued, "I was expecting something harsher to come out of your mouth, considering all the things I've done to you. But to think that you don't know what to think of me... I can't say if I should be hurt or satisfied with your answer."

"Did you want me to hate you?"

"No, for some reason, the thought of you hating me is really... unbearable."

"Well, as much as I don't want to be biased, I'm in your support, man, haha. Though Adrian is my buddy as well, hahaha," Alex said, attempting to lighten the mood with a nervous laugh.

As much as Tristan tried to deny it, the evidence of Louise's affections for Adrian was becoming increasingly evident. Subtle glances, the warmth in her smiles, and the extra attention she bestowed upon Adrian during their group outings—all pointed to a connection that went beyond mere friendship.

Tristan, couldn't help but feel a twinge of unease. He valued both his friendship with Adrian and the budding connection with Louise. The dynamics of their trio were shifting, and it was hard for him to ignore the palpable tension.

"What about you and Aria?" Tristan said with a smile trying to change topic as he was having trouble thinking about the complexity of their relationships.

"Buddy, we don't talk about that"

...

As I made my way back to my room after the extended conversation with Aria, thoughts swirled in my mind about the unexpected turn of events. Delving into the mystery of her sudden recollection revealed more questions than answers. Aria, despite her magical prowess, couldn't pinpoint the exact reason for her regained memories.

The strangeness of the situation lingered, especially considering Aria's behavior during our conversation. The memories of a previously annoyed Aria, who often seemed disinterested in conversing with me, resurfaced intermittently. It was as if the dynamics between us were shifting, leaving me in a state of uncertainty about what the future held.

"Elena?" I called out as I approached my room's door. There she was, standing anxiously, her eyes reflecting a hint of distress. The moment her gaze met mine, she hurriedly closed the distance between us and clutched onto my arms.

"Adrian, I need your help!" she exclaimed, her voice laced with genuine concern. Sensing the urgency in her plea, I motioned for us to step into my room.

"Calm down, Elena. Let's talk for now" I reassured her, guiding her to the inviting comfort of my living space.

While I busied myself making tea, she settled onto the plush couch, her worry etched across her features.

As I settled into my seat and handed her the tea, a momentary pause filled the room. Elena's gaze, initially fixated on the soothing warmth of the tea, suddenly shifted.

Her eyes bore into me, and an odd tension descended, making me acutely aware of her scrutiny.

Without warning, her focus zeroed in on my neck. Confused by the sudden change in her demeanor, I felt an invisible weight pressing against my throat.

Elena's hand reached out, delicately touching the right side of my neck. The touch was gentle, but the intensity in her eyes hinted at an unspoken urgency.

"Adrian, where did you get this?" she questioned, her voice carrying a mixture of curiosity and concern. Her fingers traced a barely noticeable mark on my neck.

I was confused as to what she meant. "What do you mean?" I asked, resulting in her eyes dimming for some reason.

'Why is she mad?'

Suddenly, the room's light turned off, and darkness spread—a heavy descent of power emanated from Elena. I gulped, knowing the divinity that spread out of Elena. Although the pressure seemed to be coming from her, I knew for a fact it was my sister hiding beneath her shadows.

'Seriously, what did I do?'