I Give Up on the BL Novel's Male Leads - Chapter 92
Illein’s unexpected words seemed to surprise Edwin.
Yet, as soon as their eyes met, he lowered his gaze in a resigned manner.
“I want to know if you’re being threatened.”
“Why? Do you want to protect me?”
Illein asked Edwin sincerely.
She was grateful for his help and for being on her side even when she wasn’t around.
And if that was truly his intention, it would be a clear departure from what she had seen in the original story.
She looked at Edwin with a hopeful expectation.
“…Well…”
Edwin furrowed his brow as if deep in thought about her words.
After a deep sigh, he continued speaking.
“I don’t.”
“….Really?”
“It’s not that. It’s just that you bother and discomfort me, like being wary of someone who could betray you at any moment.”
Illein was momentarily taken aback by the surge of disappointment she felt inside her.
While she was relieved that things were not different from the original story, she felt a strange sense of human disappointment.
“I see.”
She forced a smile, trying to seem okay.
As Edwin’s gaze focused on her face, he momentarily stiffened before sighing again.
“So if Rodein is threatening you, tell me. I’ll help.”
“…Okay.”
But Illein couldn’t bring herself to say anything.
“Illein.”
“Yes, Edwin?”
“Look into my eyes.”
She looked into his eyes as he instructed, sensing the anxiety reflected in his red pupils.
“You shouldn’t be disappointed in what I say. I don’t trust you. And you…”
“…”
“You shouldn’t trust me either. I’m someone who can destroy you at any time. Be wary and keep your distance. My apparent kindness is all for my own benefit, not yours.”
“But Edwin, you’ve been trying to keep me at a distance. It was me who wanted to get closer to you.”
“…Illein.”
“Edwin, you won’t destroy me. And being near Edwin is for my own sake.”
Illein responded to his words.
“Don’t trust me.”
“…Edwin.”
“My wariness of betrayal is because I could betray you at any time. Doubt and guard yourself.”
Illein felt that Edwin was forcing his emotions onto her and didn’t want to answer.
“Answer me, Illein.”
She couldn’t help but look directly at him as he stared into her eyes, making her feel even more uncomfortable.
His words seemed to warn her to stay away, yet his eyes appeared to be filled with concern for her.
“I don’t want to!”
“Illein.”
“Why do you keep trying to control my feelings? Whether I get close to someone or trust them, that’s my choice. You have no right to force it.”
Edwin looked at her with a complex expression.
“Listen to what I’m saying.”
“Whether I listen or not is my choice too.”
Her response, unlike her usual gentle tone, seemed almost defiant, and Edwin appeared taken aback.
He hesitated, his lips moving as if he wanted to say something, but he couldn’t continue.
Both of them just stood there, wanting to share more with each other, but realizing they couldn’t.
Eventually, Illein had to leave early. Edwin arranged for the imperial carriage to take her away.
With the director’s permission, she was allowed to leave without affecting her attendance.
It was a privilege, but given the problems Illein was facing, such a concession seemed reasonable.
Considering the evidence and details shared with the police department, it was clear that she was struggling with Willai’s group.
The police department was planning to refer the case to a disciplinary committee and then to trial.
Therefore, it was right for the director to be kind to Illein, who could potentially add fuel to the academy’s negative reputation.
If the trial proceeded, Illein’s words could either elevate or damage the reputation of Belaine Academy.
That’s why he cooperated with Edwin and gave her this privilege.
Of course, there was also a personal touch from the director.
So, Illein was studying at the mansion, going over the fragmented memories of that day’s class.
– Zziiing!
Given her situation, it wasn’t unusual for someone to visit her after school hours.
She closed the book she had been reading, put on her ring, and went downstairs to open the door.
“…Who is it?”
It turned out to be Melias.
“Are you feeling any better?”
Melias, interestingly, was holding a bouquet of flowers.
Illein found it curious that he had managed to get flowers so soon after the end of the academy’s last period.
The bright yellow freesia he was holding had a pleasant fragrance, and it seemed to suit his golden eyes and platinum hair perfectly.
She realized by then that he must like gold.
