To be the Villainess

O24.

Chapter 24

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“NO, FATHER! Please, you have to believe me!” My voice trembled as I slammed both hands onto the desk, desperation creeping into my tone. I couldn’t risk telling him about the Emperor’s betrayal, but at least I warned him about the looming threat—the monster heading for the kingdom.

His gaze softened, though a flicker of concern remained behind his tired eyes. “You’re just exhausted, my dear. You fainted during the celebration, and it’s clearly taking a toll on you.” He spoke in that calm, measured way, folding the documents in front of him with deliberate precision. The dark circles under his eyes betrayed more stress than he was willing to admit.

I let out a long sigh, the weight of his words heavy in my chest. Of course. He wasn’t going to listen. Why did I even hope otherwise? If he won’t act, then I have no choice but to handle this myself. Alone.

Straightening, I dipped into a formal bow, my movements sharp. “Then I shall take my leave, Your Grace,” I said, my voice hollow with resignation. Without waiting for his response, I turned on my heel, my steps swift as I made for the door.

“Where are you going?” His voice cut through the silence just as my hand hovered near the door handle. I froze mid-step, slowly turning to face him again. His brows knitted together in suspicion as he scrutinized me from head to toe, as if searching for some sign that I wasn’t quite myself.

“You seem fine now,” he continued, the unease in his voice barely masked. “We’ll visit the Emperor tomorrow morning. He has some matters to discuss with you.” His eyes drifted back to the documents, dismissing me as quickly as he had summoned me.

“Of course, Your Grace.” I forced the words out, turning away once more. This time, I opened the door, hoping to escape before he could question me further.

“Sleep well, my dear,” he added softly, just as I was about to close the door. I managed a small nod, accompanied by a faint, strained smile before shutting it behind me.

Once outside, I released the breath I had been holding, but it came out as a defeated sigh. I can’t ask Sebastian for help either. I clenched my fists. He’s the one tasked with killing me, after all.

The realization settled over me like a heavy cloak, suffocating and cold. I’m truly alone in this. I needed to rely on myself. I have to do this.

I reached my room and pushed the door open, stepping inside as I ran a hand over my face. “How foolish,” I muttered under my breath, giving my head a small slap. Why did I even think anyone else would help me? I had known from the start that no one was coming to my aid. Yet, for a fleeting moment, the thought had crossed my mind. Stupid.

“Are you alright, my lady?” Lilith asked, her brow furrowed in concern. She and Eleanor had rushed to greet me the moment I returned, their faces full of worry as they tried to comfort me in every way they could.

I forced a small smile. “Yes, Lilith, I’m fine.” I walked over to the sofa and sank into it, the cushions barely offering any relief to my tense muscles. “You can take your leave now. Get some rest, and don’t worry about me,” I added gently.

They exchanged glances, hesitated for a brief moment, and then bowed before quietly exiting the room. As soon as the door closed behind them, I let out a sharp breath and ran my hands through my hair, tugging at the strands in frustration. This is infuriating.

Just as I leaned back, trying to clear my mind, the air around me shimmered.

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