Chapter Seventeen: Returning to Campus

Another sunny morning, I slowly opened my eyes.

After three days of recuperation, my physical condition had basically returned to normal. Though I still couldn't ignore the weakness brought on by my body's refusal to continue drinking blood, the aftereffects of losing a drop of my origin blood had faded away.

I pushed aside the heavy lid of the coffin. Ang was already waiting respectfully for me. With Ang’s help, I washed and dressed, then walked outside.

For some reason, Liliel had not gone to sleep today, but stood coldly in the corridor watching me until I left the house. It seemed I was truly disliked by her now; I couldn't help but sigh quietly. Because of my bloodline, I had always been an object of Liliel's aversion. This incident would likely make our relationship even more distant.

The car slowly headed toward Night Sakura Academy. Since Xingyu’s leg injury had nearly healed and he could walk on his own, he declined my offer to continue picking him up for school. He was someone who disliked troubling others. As a result, the time I could spend with Xingyu had dwindled, making me feel a bit regretful, nostalgic for the days when he would wait for me at the gate.

With Ang protecting me on the way to the classroom, I watched people running and laughing in the sunlight not far away. I felt terribly envious. If only I could stroll with Xingyu in the sunlight—just once, I would have no regrets.

“Lilliana!” As I was lost in sorrowful thought, a joyful male voice called from afar. Looking toward the source, I saw the boy named Mo Chen waving as he ran swiftly from the soccer field toward me. I did not answer him, continuing at a slow pace toward the classroom.

“Lilliana,” Mo Chen caught up, gasping for breath. “I heard you were sick and missed two days of school. I was really worried. I’m so glad to see you’re okay now.” His words were filled with concern and joy.

“Mm.” I answered him coolly, a token of thanks for his concern, and walked on without looking back, unwilling to linger.

“Lilliana, I won’t give up!” Mo Chen shouted after me. I won’t give up either. Xingyu, I will protect your happiness, until the end of my life.

When I reached the classroom, Xingyu and Le Xiaoyou had not arrived yet, but many classmates came over to ask about my health. I responded to them coldly, but a gentle warmth rose in my heart. So this is what it feels like to be cared for. For the first time, I realized even these humble humans had something enviable.

I waited at my seat for a long time before Xingyu and Le Xiaoyou finally arrived.

“Nana!” Le Xiaoyou shouted happily, running toward me.

“Lilith, are you feeling better now?” Xingyu asked with concern.

“After so much rest, there’s nothing to worry about anymore.” I answered with a smile, delighted by Xingyu’s concern. “Why did you come to school together today?” I asked Xingyu and Le Xiaoyou, puzzled. Usually, Le Xiaoyou left earlier than us because of morning activities in the track club.

“Hehe, I overslept today and missed the track club activity. When I went out, I saw Xingyu and came with him.” Le Xiaoyou explained, sticking out her tongue sheepishly.

“Went out?” I was a little confused.

“Yes, yes! I haven’t told Nana before, so you didn’t know, but Xingyu and I live very close, grew up together—childhood friends! Oh, Nana, if you have time, come play at my house.” Le Xiaoyou invited me happily.

“All right, I’ll definitely come if I have time.” I replied with a smile, but for some reason, her words made me feel a hint of sadness. Why? Was it because of Le Xiaoyou’s closeness with Xingyu? What am I thinking? Le Xiaoyou is my friend, and I had already decided to quietly protect Xingyu’s happiness. If Xingyu and Le Xiaoyou end up together, I should be glad and bless them. But why do I feel sad? Why?

“Lilith, what’s wrong?” Xingyu noticed my absent-mindedness and asked anxiously, “Are you feeling unwell again?”

“It’s nothing. I’m just a little worried that Liliel might have trouble alone at home.” I found an excuse to explain to Xingyu. Looking at his gentle face, I clenched my fists and renewed my resolve. I cannot bring happiness to Xingyu, so I will protect his happiness. If he truly ends up with Le Xiaoyou, I will bless them.

“You really are a good sister. No wonder your little sister likes you so much,” Xingyu said with a smile.

Likes me? I was stunned by his words. Liliel, like me? Perhaps in this world, the only one who truly dislikes me is Liliel. I couldn’t imagine what a Liliel who liked me would be like.

“I wonder how Baiye is doing. He hasn’t come back yet,” Xingyu said, worriedly looking at the empty seat.

Though I liked Xingyu’s gentleness, as for that annoying human, it would be best if he never returned. I didn’t know what warning Ang had given him, but hopefully it was enough to frighten him away forever.

“By the way, Mo Chen was so worried when you missed school—he came to our class several times a day. He really likes you, Nana. Don’t you feel anything for him?” Le Xiaoyou asked curiously.

“I’m not interested. He’s just an irrelevant person to me.” I gently shook my head.

“What a pitiful person,” Le Xiaoyou sighed, expressing her sympathy.

“Le Xiaoyou, are you falling for him?” Xingyu teased.

“Of course not.” Le Xiaoyou snorted and ignored Xingyu.

“Oh right, Nana, the school is organizing a spring outing this weekend. Are you coming?” Le Xiaoyou asked expectantly.

“A spring outing?” I muttered, thinking for a moment before answering Le Xiaoyou with unwavering determination, “Yes, I will definitely go.” A spring outing—perhaps it would be painful, but I want to stay by Xingyu’s side until he finds his own happiness. So, Ang, forgive me for my selfishness until then.

“But your health…” Xingyu looked very worried.

“It’s fine. I’ve fully recovered after so many days of rest, and if I don’t move, I’ll rust. Besides, I have you two, right? You’ll take care of me, won’t you?” I said to Xingyu and Le Xiaoyou.

“Of course! Leave it to me, I’ll protect Nana,” Le Xiaoyou promised, patting her chest.

“Don’t push yourself. Like last time at the amusement park—if you get sick again, we’ll be worried,” Xingyu insisted.

“Really, it’s nothing. If there’s any problem, Ang absolutely won’t let me participate, so don’t worry,” I reassured Xingyu. I didn’t want him to worry, but I couldn’t accept his kindness. While I can still appear under the sunlight, let me stay by your side, I thought, looking firmly at Xingyu.

“That’s great. I hope the weekend comes soon,” Le Xiaoyou said. She truly was someone who knew no sadness, always so cheerful. Honestly, I envied her a little.

Still, a spring outing—I was indeed looking forward to it. I seemed to see her again, sitting under the blossoming tree, gently stroking my hair, while Father smiled happily from afar. Mother, I will find happiness.