Staying Away from His Villainous Sight

Chapter 20

⋅˚₊‧ ୨୧ ‧₊˚ ⋅

I found solace and tranquility within the walls of the Cathedral de Briony. Seeking refuge in this sacred haven, I embraced the opportunity to immerse myself in quiet contemplation. It was within these hallowed halls that I found myself reflecting on the unexpected kiss we had shared.

As I sat in solitude, I delicately traced my lips with my fingertip, allowing myself to be enveloped by a myriad of emotions. "That was my first kiss," I murmured softly, overwhelmed by a rush of memories and feelings. However, I swiftly reminded myself of the sanctity of the space I was in and redirected my focus to the timeless beauty that surrounded me.

Gazing at the cathedral's vintage grandeur, I felt a deep sense of reverence. With a gentle clasping of my hands, I offered a brief prayer, letting my words blend into the sacred atmosphere.

"Dear deity above, I humbly seek your guidance and strength in this moment of uncertainty. Please illuminate the path ahead of me and grant me the resilience to overcome any challenges that come my way. Help me stay steadfast and unwavering in the face of adversity. Amen."

As I aimlessly wandered out of the towering building, my mind was consumed by Lysias expressing his desire to be in a romantic relationship with me. His affection for me was adorable. However, I couldn't help but think about Katherine. She might not be in love with Lysias but I'm sure she would be hurt about it. My concern for her was palpable, a weight on my heart.

I gazed out at the crystal-clear lake, its surface gently rippling in the breeze. In the center of the lake, a water fountain sprayed a fine mist into the air, creating a soothing melody of splashing sounds. I lay perched on a cement bench in the exquisite garden of the academy, peacefully embroidering.

I had a direct conversation with him to make it clear that I was not able to pursue a romantic relationship with him because he was already engaged. I stressed that I could only consider maintaining a strictly platonic friendship with him, given the situation. It was important to me to honor my friendship with Katherine, and I could not betray her by getting involved with someone who was already planning to be committed to her.

Amid the discussion, Lysias caught me off guard by making an unexpected declaration: "Very well, I shall void our engagement." Startled by his sudden decision, I couldn't help but express my immediate concern, "No, you can't just do that! She may not be in love with you, but imagine how she would feel losing her position as crown princess!"

Lysias gently took hold of my hand and softly rubbed it. His eyes lit up with a warm smile as he gazed at our intertwined hands. Then, he shifted his gaze to meet mine and said, "Anya, Katherine never desired to become the crown princess."

In the novel, Katherine seems to genuinely revel in the authority and power dynamics of her relationship. Lysias noticed my internal conflict and gently placed his hands on my cheek, offering reassurance. "If you're not ready to pursue this relationship, I completely understand and respect your decision," Lysias expressed.

Shaking off the lingering thoughts of Lysias, I turned my attention to the delicate art of embroidery. I planned for the exquisite handkerchief to be meticulously embroidered with elegant roses adorning the edges with delicate precision. I was filled with determination to infuse a personal touch into this exquisite piece by carefully stitching Lysias' initials onto one of the corners, elevating its sentimental value and making it truly one-of-a-kind.

The sound of a beautiful melody being played on a piano drifted through the air, emanating from the building adjacent to the garden. It was a hauntingly beautiful tune, and I couldn't help but feel drawn to it. I immediately recognized the pianist-Lysias, the young boy with whom I was intimately acquainted. As his fingers danced across the keys, I could see the depth of his emotions reflected in each note. Every stroke seemed to carry a piece of his soul as if the music was an extension of his innermost feelings.

I found myself standing in the corner by the door, completely entranced as I listened to him play the piano. His music filled the room, and I couldn't help but be captivated by the depth of emotion in his expression.

"How much longer do you plan to remain standing there, Anastasia?" Lysias inquired, his voice gentle but insistent, as he continued to focus on the black and white piano keys under his fingers. He looked up only briefly to give me a warm smile as he beckoned for me to join him on the plush seat next to the grand piano. "Come, sit with me, and let me share this melody with you," he urged, patting the empty space beside him.

As I gracefully walked towards him, the delicate fabric of my dress swayed with the gentle breeze, enveloping me in an otherworldly aura. Taking a seat beside him, I was captivated by his every subtle gesture as he immersed himself in the melody.

"You seem to find so much joy in playing. It's beautiful to see," I remarked, unable to tear my gaze away.

In the silence of my thoughts, I offer a heartfelt prayer. Oh, benevolent deity above, I am increasingly aware of the depths of my love for him. The mere thought of never feeling the tender touch of his lips fills me with unbearable uncertainty and longing.

Lysias paused briefly, and a faint chuckle escaped from his lips. Unexpectedly, he posed a question that caught me entirely off guard, "You desperately want to kiss me?" His words caused a sudden wave of emotion to wash over me, and I felt myself tremble as a deep blush crept up my cheeks. "W-what?" I stammered, completely taken aback by his question.

"I can sense the emotions emanating from you," he said with a mischievous smile, his fingers delicately tracing the intricate patterns of my ring. "I took it when you were lost in thought, watching from a distance."

Even though I should be angry that he stole my ring with magic, I found myself unable to resist the urge to provoke him playfully. "And what if I did?" I inquired, feeling a rush of excitement. "The kiss, I mean." His eyes met mine, and he deliberated upon my query. After a brief pause, he drew closer, his gentle exhalation caressing my skin.

"I would kiss you, Anastasia. That's precisely what I would do."