Chapter 194: A maiden's heart is pure

From the very moment we crossed paths, I never paid much attention to him.

He was just another friend, a reliable companion with whom I navigated the routine of classes and shared laughter during lunch with our group.

Our connection was comfortable....

Yes, it was too comfortable and before I knew it, I fell.

Under the watchful gaze of the moon and stars, a realization dawned on me — a realization that altered the course of our friendship.

In that moment, as the moonlight bathed us in its gentle glow, I discovered a depth of emotion I had been oblivious to.

His touches resonated within me, his voice became a balm to my restless mind, and his mere presence had the power to evoke a smile from the depths of my being.

It was then, on that rooftop, that I acknowledged the blossoming feelings I held for him.

My heart, once indifferent, now throbbed with an undeniable affection. Adrian was no longer just a friend; he had transcended that role.

He wasn't merely the savior who had rescued me from potential tragedy but the man who had captured my heart.

However, even in the warmth of this realization, I couldn't ignore the reality that loomed ahead. From the outset, I understood that my chances with him were slim.

Adrian was surrounded by a bunch of women, a fact that cast a shadow of doubt on the possibility of us being more than friends.

Nevertheless, the presence of competition did not mean surrender was my only option.

Aria, Elena, Lilliana, and even the unexpected addition of Analise, not to mention that ever nosy Euphemia.

They were the vibrant souls close to him, occupying spaces that felt both near and distant at the same time.

What struck me was not just their presence but the fact that they seemed to have a much smoother path to romance with Adrian than I ever could.

Elena, the current flame in his life, stood out prominently. Among these amazing women, I couldn't help but wonder if I stood a chance against them.

They weren't just individuals; they were powerhouses, each holding a social standing that felt worlds away from my humble position as the daughter of a baron.

The daunting realization of this difference in status left me feeling like I was attempting the impossible – challenging these formidable women for Adrian's attention. It was a battle I was unsure I could win.

But then, there was another layer to this story. Beyond the apparent barriers, Aria, Elena, Lilliana, and Analise were not just friends; they were my sanctuary.

These were the people who embraced me, flaws and all, sheltering me from the storms life had thrown my way.

It was a kind of friendship I never imagined finding – a connection that felt like family, despite our differences.

As we navigated life together, their unwavering support became a beacon of light.

They saw past the rumors and judgments, understanding me in ways that went beyond the societal labels.

In their company, I found acceptance and love, making our bonds more than just friendships.

Yet, in the midst of this warmth, there was the undeniable truth – they all harbored deep affections for Adrian.

It was evident in the sparkle of their eyes and the shared moments that spoke volumes about their connection.

Even as I tried to push those feelings aside, I couldn't ignore the love that radiated between them

Every single day, a subtle yet piercing ache would settle in my heart whenever Adrian engaged with the other girls.

Despite the searing discomfort, I made a conscious choice not to react outwardly.

Jealousy threatened to surface, but I couldn't afford to let it tarnish the close relationship we had built. I couldn't be the one to introduce discord into our connection.

For far too long, I had been suppressing my feelings, locking them away to prevent any hint of envy from escaping.

It wasn't that I was oblivious to the emotions swirling within me; rather, it was a deliberate effort to safeguard what we had. I didn't want my unspoken affection to become the catalyst for the ruin of a bond that meant the world to me.

It wasn't just wishful thinking; it was a gut feeling rooted in the understanding we had cultivated over time.

'I'm sorry but.... I'll make sure to fulfill all your wishes even if he asks for a k-kiss I wouldn't mind....!'

Yes, I won't....

....

Morning arrived, and there I stood, nervously facing Adrian's room. It might have seemed early, but after spending three days within the holy kingdom, I had come to realize that the day started early for the people here.

The clock had just struck 8, and I was certain Adrian was already awake.

"You can do it, master!" Cecilia tried to cheer me on, her encouragement ringing in my ears. I shot her a glare, silencing her instantly. After the emotional rollercoaster of last night, I couldn't afford any missteps, especially considering some of Cecilia's questionable advice.

Knocking on the door, my mind raced with a cascade of thoughts.

What if he still thinks I'm weird? Would meeting him like this be awkward? I had skipped dinner last night; would he find that odd? Was my dress okay, or did it scream 'weird'? What if he's not even inside? Is Ana with him? Is my hair fine?

"Good morning, Louise," his voice greeted me as the door swung open. I returned the greeting, but internally, my mind felt like a chaotic symphony, thousands of birds ringing the bells of a church in cacophony.

"Good morning"

Adrian stood before me, the morning light casting a warm glow on his features.

Despite my internal turmoil, I managed a smile, hoping to conceal the nervous excitement within me.

The air felt charged with anticipation, a palpable tension that hung between us.

But I was glad. Glad that he seemed fine talking to me even after yesterday. I could tell from his natural actions that he didn't want to make me feel uncomfortable – that was so like him.

"Adrian, can I ask you another favor?" I finally managed to tell him.

"...ok" he responded with a hesitant nod. Yes, now was the time. It was probably going to be my last chance. Probably. I couldn't afford to get distracted now.

Everything was perfect – the atmosphere, my dress, my demeanor, and even my smile.

Yes, everything was perfect.

His face looked perfect too. The more I gazed at him – his dark hair, his gray eyes, and even his sharp look – everything was perfect.

Yup, he was perfect.

Too perfect. Looking at his face intensely, I realized that he had no imperfections. From his eyes to his brows, his nose to his ears, and finally his lips that looked so sweet.

'I wonder how they taste?' My mind raced with thoughts I knew I shouldn't entertain. I'm sure Elena had already gotten her fair share of indulging on those lips, right?

I should've stopped then....

"Can I kiss you?" My lips blurted out, surprising even myself. What did I just say? His eyes widened, mirroring my own shock.

The words hung in the air, a declaration I hadn't anticipated making, leaving my face flushed and my entire body trembling with a mixture of anticipation and embarrassment.

"Louise?"

A voice called out from just behind Adrian.

My heart sank as I turned to find Elena standing there, her white hair glistening in the morning light, and her sky blue eyes wide with shock. Time seemed to freeze, and the room suddenly felt stifling.

Elena looked at me with a mixture of surprise and disbelief, her hand instinctively covering her mouth as if to stifle any gasp that might escape.

In that moment, I felt like I was under the harsh spotlight of judgment, my cheeks burning with embarrassment.

'Oh, dear goddess, please kill me!'

Please kill me....!