章節 450: Matured? Maybe not...

As much as Aria wanted to doubt Aether's story, everything seemed to fit perfectly.

His knowledge about.. ancient texts, the unfamiliar technological terms he sometimes slipped into conversation... all of it made sense now.

"I see..." She nodded slowly, snuggling deeper into his arms, though her lips trembled slightly as she continued, "So, I'm just a mission to you? Something you want to clear and move on from?" The vulnerability in her voice betrayed her calm demeanour.

Aether gently lifted her chin, his fingers tender on her skin, "What do you think?" he asked softly, his gaze steady.

Aria stared into his eyes for a long moment before pulling him closer, burying her face in his chest.... She didn't say anything, but her embrace spoke volumes. It was enough for Aether to understand her answer, but it felt strangely anti-climactic to him.

In the visions he'd seen in the game, Aria.... ever the yandere—was supposed to react far more explosively.