Phantom's Performance

Chapter 33

Y/n's Pov

After the shower, I wrapped myself in a warm towel, my thoughts still racing from the panic attack. I knew I needed answers, and there was only one place where I might find them: the castle library. But before I could go, I needed to ask permission.

I reached for the phone on the bedside table and dialed a familiar number. It rang a few times before I heard the deep, smooth voice of my father on the other end.

"Y/n, my dear," Lucifer greeted me warmly. "To what do I owe the pleasure of this call?"

"Hi, Dad," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady. "I was wondering... would it be alright if I came by the castle today? I'd like to spend some time in the library."

"The library?" Lucifer's tone was curious, but not questioning. "Of course, my dear. You're always welcome at the castle. Is everything alright?"

"Everything's fine," I assured him, though I wasn't entirely sure of that myself. "I just... have some things I need to look into."

There was a pause at the other end before Lucifer spoke again, his voice soft and understanding. "Take all the time you need, Y/n. You know the library holds many secrets, and if you're searching for answers, it's a good place to start."

"Thank you, Dad," I said, feeling a bit more at ease. "I'll head over soon."

"I'll let the staff know to expect you," he replied. "And Y/n... if you need anything, you know where to find me."

"I know," I said, a small smile tugging at my lips. "Thanks, Dad. I'll see you later."

After hanging up, I took a deep breath. The castle was a place of comfort for me, a place where I had always felt safe. Maybe there, among the ancient texts and forgotten knowledge, I would find the answers I so desperately needed.

I quickly dressed, my resolve growing stronger with each passing moment. I wasn't just running away from the darkness within me—I was going to face it head-on.

With one last glance at myself in the mirror, I grabbed my bag and headed for the door. It was time to find out what was happening to me, and I wasn't going to stop until I had the answers.

As I stepped out of my room, I nearly collided with Alastor in the hallway. He caught me by the shoulders, steadying me with that familiar grin of his.

"Careful, my dear," he said with a chuckle. "In quite the hurry, are we?"

I smiled back, trying to push the lingering unease to the back of my mind. "Sorry about that. I was just heading out."

Alastor tilted his head, his red eyes narrowing with curiosity. "Oh? And where might you be off to?"

"I'm going to the castle," I explained. "I want to spend some time in the library."

"The library?" Alastor's smile softened, and there was a glint of understanding in his eyes. "Searching for something in particular?"

"Just... some things I need to figure out," I said vaguely, not wanting to worry him. "What about you? What are your plans for the day?"

"Ah, I have a meeting with Rosie," Alastor replied, his grin widening. "We're discussing a bit of territory she's looking to relinquish. Quite the exciting prospect."

I nodded, glad to see him in such high spirits. "That sounds interesting. Are you looking forward to it?"

"Indeed," he said, his tone light. "Though I must admit, I was hoping to have you accompany me. But I understand if you have other priorities today."