"I am deeply in love with you, Aria."
Those words from Avendial struck Aria like a thunderbolt.
Her mind was already overwhelmed by the events that had just occurred, trying to calm herself due to the soaring pain tormenting her heart.
But he just...
"Wha—Mmmphhh!?"
Badump!
Her heartbeat thumped the moment he sealed her lips, not even giving her the chance to speak any further.
Her eyes widened as she reflexively brought her hand forward, pushing him away with force, lurching his body to the ground as she yelled, "How dare you!"
Her heartbeat was out of control, but her mind, which a few moments ago had been defeated by her heart, seemed to want to battle instead, as her anger consumed her.
She glared at the man who dared to kiss her.
"Huh? Oh, I am sorry…" Avendial said, seated on the ground after being thrown, knowing full well that force wasn't the option here.