The Villainess Just Wants to Study

Chapter 49 ~ The Final Verdict

Dylan's heels clacked against the marble floor as she made her way back to the courtroom. Her face was still flushed red as she lowered her head in embarrassment. Caspian had kissed her, but more importantly, she had kissed him back.

It was as though her disdain for human contact had converted itself into a craving for human warmth. She buried her face in her hands and lost herself in her misery. Perhaps she was ashamed that she had done something so foolish.

"Oh my," a woman said to her. "Are you alright, Lady Dylan?"

Dylan glanced up at her— a friendlier glance; as if she had temporarily forgotten about her embarrassment. Several nobles greeted her courteously as she passed, showering her with flattery and praise.

'Power-hungry humans are a danger.'

"I'm just a little bit overwhelmed," Dylan said, smiling weakly. "Thank you for your concern."

The older lady said, "Oh, you poor thing! It must have been exhausting for you, all this ruckus."

The lady began to chatter like a magpie, and Dylan nodded absently while she pretended to listen. She had no intention of entertaining people like her, but she didn't want to be rude.

"Madam," said Dylan, "I'm afraid I must return to my father's side."

"Oh, yes, of course!" the woman said, as she smiled and nodded. "Should I write to you to arrange a meeting with my son?"

Dylan plastered the best smile she could muster on her face. "Yes, please do so."

After rushed goodbyes, Dylan continued toward the courtroom. How many people had she encountered so far? Eleven? Twelve? 

'I miss Cadence. If he were here, I would feel less vulnerable.'

Dylan walked faster and faster, desperately trying to reach the courtroom without having to greet another noble. She was close to panic as she rounded a corner and nearly ran smack into somebody. 

"My apologies," she said, bowing slightly. 

She was always aware of her surroundings even when it seemed she wasn't paying attention. This time, however, she was in such a frantic state that she had nearly knocked somebody over.

"Miss. Dylan," the person said. 

She raised her head and met his gaze. Sir Pennel watched her with gleaming, unreadable eyes. He smiled again, that same sly smile that sent shivers down her spine.

"I've been looking for you for a while." He laughed huskily. "You're not an easy lady to find."

She felt uncomfortable under his gaze and gave a nervous laugh in return. "My apologies, I've been resting."

There was an uncomfortable silence. Sir Pennel continued to stare at Dylan for what seemed like an eternity.

'Is he not going to say anything back?'

After finally being unable to endure his stare any longer, Dylan said, "Please excuse me."

She lowered her eyes and tried to walk past him, but he blocked her path.

"Ah, Sir Pennel?" Dylan swallowed nervously. "Is something the matter?"

She stepped to the side, trying to go around him again, but he blocked her path once more.

'What kind of childish behaviour is this?'

"Sir, I really don't appreciate this kind of behaviour. I have somewhere to be right now. If you have something to say, then please say it quickly."