Flag-Breaking Villainess: The Story of How Breaking the Romance Flags of the Otome Game's Protagonist Ended Up Creating New Flags Between the Reincarnated Villainess and the Heroine - Chapter 12.2

The sound of the rain pouring down and the raindrops hitting the window echoed through the night as I sat at my desk, studying. The weather outside had grown increasingly fierce. Eventually, lightning streaked across the night sky, followed by thunder that shook the entire room.

“L-Liel…”

I heard Lady Lilia’s voice from beside me, though she had been reading just moments ago. I immediately looked up, and my gaze met hers. Her hands were trembling slightly, and I could see an expression on her face I had never seen before—a clear look of fear.

“Lady Lilia, what’s wrong?”

I was confused, wondering what could have happened.

“I’m… scared of the thunder… Please, stay with me…”

Her words caused my heart to tighten. Lady Lilia’s voice was shaky, and there was a fragile quality to it I had never heard before. I immediately released my pen and gently took her hand in mine.

It was cold. Lady Lilia’s hands had always felt cool to the touch, but this time, they were as cold as ice, as though her body temperature had dropped drastically. I instinctively gripped her hand tighter.

“Lady Lilia, it’s alright. I’m here.”

I held her hand firmly and led her to the bed. I helped her sit on the edge and gently wrapped my arms around her.

Her body felt unusually cold, almost as if she had been outside in the rain. But I knew she hadn’t left the room. And the way she was reacting to the thunder—this wasn’t like how the children at the orphanage would fear the storms. There seemed to be something deeper, something more profound at play.

Lady Lilia returned my embrace, and I felt her trembling body gradually calm as we held each other.

When another thunderclap echoed, Lady Lilia flinched. I held her tighter, gently stroking her silver hair, praying silently that she would find some comfort in my presence.

Slowly, I could feel Lady Lilia’s body warmth returning.

“Liel… thank you…”

Lady Lilia buried her face in my chest, her voice breaking with gratitude. I didn’t say anything, simply staying by her side.

Just as she had supported me when I first felt the weight of malice in the classroom, when I was lonely and unsure, she was now seeking my warmth.

I prayed that my warmth would bring peace to Lady Lilia’s heart.

…By the way, in this situation, I feel like we might be doing something a little bold.

But I don’t have any improper thoughts—honestly, I don’t. It’s just the result of actions made with concern for the other person.

That being said, the situation is a bit tense. After all, we’re both in light nightgowns, and… well, you know… right?

I can feel my heartbeat quicken, and I’m sure Lady Lilia can’t tell, right…?

Note: Lady Lilia’s cold hands are a result of the aftereffects of her passing, as mentioned in the previous chapter.

It feels like the protagonist has finally made a move worthy of the main character in a maiden game.

Even though I truly care about the other person, it feels a bit awkward… but what can I do? She’s just a delicate soul.