Haunted Duke’s Daughter

Id like to have this.

Yes, yes! Please, take it home!

What?

I wanted to know the price, but the old man wanted me to take it home. I can guess why. Is he really that afraid of me?

Lilia let out a small sigh and forced the coin into the old mans hand.

Oh? No, no, no! You cant do this!

Shut up. Im going to destroy you.

!

The old mans eyes widened and he exclaimed. Lilia said nothing more and left with the basket of strawberries in her hand.

Perhaps the incident at the fruit stall had gotten through to them, but the way they looked at Lilia was clearly hostile, unlike before. It was a bold move for someone who was so afraid of her, but the Lilia of before would have brushed aside such a look. She would not have even reacted to such a gaze.

But now Lilia entered a narrow alley between buildings and walked on. After walking for a while and making sure there was no one around, Lilia leaned against the wall.

Ive made an effort to change.

At least, she thought she had done her best. But it still wasnt enough.

When Im here, I even feel as if all my efforts are being denied.

SLilia, are you okay?

Lilia smiled helplessly at Sakuras voice.

LIm fine, just a little tired, thats all.

SAre you sure?

LYeah. Shall we go?

Staying here any longer would only make Sakura worry. Lilia pulled herself up, trying to walk

SI know its not enough yet, you know.

Sakuras words stopped her in her tracks.

LWhat is it?

SIts not that Lilias not trying hard enough, its that theres not enough time. Its true that Lilia is trying her best to change but only a few people at the school can see that. Theres still a long way to go.

LYes.Thats right. Thank you, Sakura.

Lilia gave a small nod and tried to move her feet to leave this time, but was quickly stopped again.

Huh? Lilia-san? What are you doing?

I opened my eyes and turned around. There was Ray, wondering why I was here. Im the one who wants to ask what you are doing.

Im lost. Please help me.

Lilia opened her mouth dumbly, and then sighed loudly.

What are you doing, Ray?

I heard that Lilia was free during the vacation. I was going to go visit you, but I was interrupted by a lot of people. I finally got out, but I didnt know where to go so I wandered around and here I am.

Lilia nodded.

SAn idiot.

Lilia fully agreed with Sakuras words while holding back her laughter. She wondered if a member of the royal family could act alone, even if it was with such a light heart. However, it was fortunate that they had met here.

You want to go to the Aldis estate?

Yes. No?

Thats not for me to say. Ill show you the way and you can follow me.

When Lilia said that and started walking, Ray followed her, leaving a little distance between them.

I walked out into the street with Ray who was looking around curiously in tow. He should be a little more dignified since he was walking with me, but if he had never been in this neighborhood before, it was natural for him to feel curious.

Perhaps it was because of Rays presence, but the stares of the people around me had somehow changed to ones of confusion. I could still feel their gazes, but they were no longer so unpleasant.

How long will it take from here?

Ray asked, and Lilia took one look at Ray before answering.

Its a little far on foot but I have a carriage that can take you back. Well have to wait for my brother to finish shopping before going.

Oh, yes. What has he come to buy?

A sword.

A sword!

Ray suddenly shouted out loud. I looked back at him, my cheeks twitching with a bad feeling. Rays eyes were dazzlingly bright.

Miss Lilia! Lets go!

Where?

To your brother! I want to see it too!

Lilia could tell from that much that Ray was the same as her brother. No way, I thought, and took Rays hand. Ray froze in surprise, but I didnt care.

SSword user..

LHuh. So he can use a sword. Thats a little surprising.

Oh, uh, Lilia?

Oh.Sorry.

When she let go of Rays hand, he looked at his hand and Lilia alternately. She felt as if her face was red in her mind.

I dont know where my brother has gone, either. Lets wait in the carriage quietly.

I understand.

Lilia tilted her head at Rays panicked look, but since she didnt know the reason, she didnt care and walked toward the carriage.