Chapter 37 Misunderstanding
Sydney smiled sadly, but she didn't know if she'd managed to say anything that would make Sydney feel better. She was new to this, but she hoped Sydney would understand her point.
"I guess you're right, I'm overthinking about Ethan. But come to think of it, we're half-siblings. That means it's impossible for us to be in a relationship, considering his mother and my father are married."
"So half-siblings aren't allowed to have romantic relationships?"
"Normally not, because people would assume it's forbidden. But no matter what, I really like Ethan, and I want him to understand my feelings."
"He already understands your feelings, you know that, right?"
Someone suddenly joined their conversation, and when they turned around, Lea was standing five steps behind them. Lea was staring at them with an annoyed expression, as if she felt left alone.
"Lea?" Nami and Sydney called out at the same time. Lea took three steps, her arms folded across her chest, still keeping a distance from Nami.
"Why did you run away like that, Syd?"
"I didn't run away, I just wanted to find Nami!"
"But you didn't answer my phone, Syd! Oh my God, what's wrong with you? Weren't you so scared you were shaking all over? Why are you having a casual conversation with Nami here now?" Lea asked, seemingly unable to forgive what had happened today.
Nami was restless, not knowing what to say to convince Lea to forgive her. It seemed Lea wasn't someone who could forgive easily, she was quite vindictive.
"Lea, you misunderstand! I don't blame Nami at all. You know it wasn't Nami's fault. You were there and witnessed Prince Jacob brutally attack Nami repeatedly. Was it wrong for Nami to try to defend herself?" Sydney spoke emotionally. Nami was at a loss for words, seeing how Sydney tried so hard to defend her. She felt Sydney's sincerity and it made her so grateful to have Sydney by her side when she was constantly restless because she missed Levi so much for days.
Seeing Sydney's sincerity, Lea was speechless. She actually knew that today's incident wasn't Nami's fault. It was clear that Nami was the victim of Prince Jacob's anger and jealousy, who had always been called the strongest human. However, the title of strongest human was almost lost when a girl managed to fend off all his attacks.
Lea sighed, realizing that it was time for her to give up blaming Nami for what happened. She knew this was also unfair to Nami, as it seemed the higher-ups, trainers, and leaders at the academy would shift all the blame onto Nami. Considering that it was impossible for them to blame, let alone hold Prince Jacob responsible, ERI didn't touch his position as an esper at all. It was as if they turned a blind eye and were powerless when their target was a noble. Everyone adored and idolized him, considering him a future hero and the great protector of Evangelia. In stark contrast, their attitude toward espers from the common people was completely different.
"Okay, I give up. Nami, I'm sorry I blamed you. I know I was wrong to say something so mean to you. I apologize." Lea extended her hand and shook it sincerely. She felt both guilty and ashamed.
"It's okay, Lea. I understand, everyone feels scared around me."
"In fact, I feel safe around someone as strong as you, Nami!" Sydney said. She smiled happily because her two friends were finally getting along again.
"Sydney, I'm not that strong!"
"Come on, don't be so modest, Nami! I saw everything, you're very strong, right, Lea?" Sydney said, hugging Nami's arm affectionately.
Despite her apparent arrogance, Lea also recognized Nami's strength. When she saw her fight Prince Jacob, Nami rarely attacked, preferring to deflect all of Prince Jacob's attacks while protecting everyone.
"Yes, I have to admit, you're so amazing, Nami. I think I already know who humanity's future strongest warrior will be."
"Hey, you two, I told you I'm not that strong!"
"No! You have to protect me and Lea no matter what!" Sydney became even more spoiled, making Nami flustered.
In the midst of their laughter, Nami's stomach growled loudly. They fell silent because the sound startled them.
"I-I'm sorry!"
"Your stomach growled so loudly, Nami. Are you really hungry?"
"Yes, I am. Is there anything I can eat?"
"Let's go back to the room. I have some instant noodles and snacks. We can eat together and chat!" Lea said as she prepared to leave.
Meanwhile, Nami and Sydney looked at each other, thinking the same thing.
"Lea, we love you."
The three young girls walked together amicably, heading to the room they shared. However, as they passed through the corridor, they saw Mariah and Sydney standing in front of their door, acting arrogantly.
Lea could easily guess Mariah and Bella's purpose.
"Why are you two blocking the way? Get out of the way, we're going in!"