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 8.3

Today is the academy’s founding anniversary.

Since it’s a special occasion, there are no classes. The entire day is free.

Lilia-sama had asked me in advance to keep my schedule open, saying she was hosting a special tea party today. Naturally, I responded in an instant—Of course, I won’t make any other plans!

Around noon, I entered the garden alongside Lilia-sama, as the tea party was to be held there.

“Wow…”

The garden was in full bloom, vibrant with a variety of flowers harmonizing beautifully despite their differences. It was like something out of a fairy tale, a scene so enchanting that my heart felt lighter just by being there.

“This is my first time visiting the garden, but it’s truly a breathtaking place.”

To be able to walk through such a magical place with Lilia-sama—it was the best feeling in the world.

“It is, isn’t it? Recently, I made my second school friend here.”

…And just like that, my mood plummeted.

“A… a school friend?”

A sharp pang ran through my mind. The one and only position of being Lilia-sama’s school friend was now under threat.

Of course, I have no right to monopolize her. It’s only natural that Lilia-sama would make new friends. But… what if she starts spending more time with this new friend instead of me? Even if that doesn’t happen, the thought of having less time alone with her makes me feel miserable.

“What kind of person are they?”

If I had to accept it, then at the very least, I hoped this new friend wasn’t someone who could outshine me.

Sure, I was just a commoner, which put me at a disadvantage. But I was Lilia-sama’s first school friend. And besides… I do have a rare light attribute, which is something, right?

“Her name is Shiroe. She’s the daughter of the headmaster and an incredibly talented girl who manages this entire garden all by herself.”

…She’s strong.

I can’t win.

It’s over.

Dizzy from the realization, I followed Lilia-sama to the tea party area.

Ursus was already there, setting the table with an array of sweets and fine tableware. The setup was clearly meant for three people.

Wait… could it be…? No, no. I’m sure Ursus will be joining us at the table today—

“Lilia… I’ve been waiting…”

I was wrong. Of course, I was.

Stepping out from the shade was a girl with long black hair, her eyes hidden beneath her bangs.

“Good day, Shiroe.”

From there, Lilia-sama led the introductions, and soon, the four of us began our tea party.

Today’s sweets were all flower-themed, a perfect match for the setting. Each one was crafted with meticulous skill, a testament to Ursus’s expertise.

“Lilia’s maid is quite the artisan. These sweets not only suit the garden’s atmosphere but also enhance the beauty of the flowers themselves.”

I silently agreed. However, for some reason, they tasted a little less delicious than usual.

It wasn’t because Ursus’s skills had faltered—it was because Shiroe was here. The presence of an outsider had disrupted the comfortable space I cherished.

I cast a subtle glance at Shiroe, intending to gauge her reaction—or perhaps to send a warning. But she didn’t seem to notice.

As the somewhat tense tea party continued, a sudden outburst of excitement—or perhaps even a scream—echoed from a distance.

“What was that?”

“It seems like something happened. But it doesn’t sound like an emergency. We can ask someone about it later.”

Hmm, I’m a bit curious… but I’ll find out later anyway.

As I sipped my tea, a voice suddenly interrupted.

“Excuse me, may I have a moment?”

Looking up, I saw an unfamiliar male student approaching us. He had golden hair, striking blue eyes, and an almost dazzling aura.

“Good day to you, Prince Allen.”

Wait, this person is a prince?!

I hurriedly stood up and greeted him. Prince Allen first started a conversation with Lady Lilia.

“A… A prince…?”

It didn’t feel real. A person of such great importance to the kingdom was standing right in front of me, and my mind went completely blank.

Then, Prince Allen turned to me.

“This is our first time meeting, isn’t it, Liel? Please, there’s no need to be so tense. Treat me as just another student. The academy encourages us to interact as equals, regardless of status.”

“Y-Yes! I’ll do my best!”

Prince Allen was impressive.

He had an air of refinement and charm. Not quite as much as Lady Lilia, though.

His face and physique were exceptional. But still—not as much as Lady Lilia’s.

Even his smile was captivating. But of course—not as much as Lady Lilia’s.

In the end, Lady Lilia is the best!

While I was lost in my thoughts, Shiroe ended up guiding Prince Allen away from us as his designated escort.

As soon as Lady Lilia sat back down, I followed suit, sinking into my chair with a small sigh of relief.

“What should we do now?”

“Let’s continue our tea party. Just the three of us, as always.”

Returning to the familiar, cherished atmosphere I loved made me feel at ease again. I was glad Prince Allen had taken Shiroe away… though I knew that wasn’t a very noble thought.

But… I just want to stay by Lady Lilia’s side.

The next day, it was officially announced—Prince Allen’s fiancée had been chosen.

It was Shiroe.

In my heart, there were two versions of me—one sincerely congratulating the couple, and the other relieved that they wouldn’t take Lady Lilia away from me.

End of Prince Allen’s Chapter