The moment Ligeia's voice came through, David shuddered violently, obvious panic flashing across his face.
It was like secretly playing games at home when he suddenly heard his parents unlocking the door. He panicked so badly that he didn't know what to do, even jumping out of his chair in fright—and because the chair was so high, he nearly fell straight off it.
Clearly, David had subconsciously treated what Miss Aleister had said as a secret that no one else could know.
Only after he turned around and saw that the person entering was Ligeia did the panic on his face ease slightly.
Seeing David timidly eyeing her, Ligeia's gaze instantly sharpened. She opened her mouth and cursed, "Why the hell are you acting so cowardly around me, boy? Are you stealing something here, or harassing someone? Is that it? Breaking the law?"
"No, I didn't..."
Ligeia's words made David's eyes widen. He hurriedly tried to explain himself.
But before he could finish, Ligeia cut him off. "If you didn't, then stand properly! What's there to panic about? Do you look like a man?"
"...Yes."
David opened his mouth, still wanting to explain, but after moving his lips a few times, he obediently lowered his head in dejection.
"Louder. I can't hear you!"
"Yes!" David snapped to attention and answered loudly.
"Go stand outside."
As she spoke, Ligeia shook the long skirt in her hands. "Or do you want to watch her change clothes?"
"...No, I don't..."
The momentum David had just gathered deflated once again.
He wanted to leave, but also didn't really want to. It was rare for him to see Ligeia, so he hesitated before probing indirectly. "Lady Ligeia, I was... introduced by Miss Aleister..."
Ligeia burst out laughing in exasperation. "Get out first!"
"...Huh?"
David let