Chapter 26
Felix and Lila stepped out of Chloe's room, their footsteps light but purposeful. Lila’s smirk never wavered, and Felix was almost enjoying the tension in the air.
“Did you see their faces?” Lila asked, her voice full of twisted satisfaction. “They really thought they could just bury me and get away with it.”
Felix raised an eyebrow, glancing over at her. “Honestly, I was more impressed by how they thought they were so clever. Burying you? How quaint. Too bad they didn’t count on me being a little more observant.”
Lila laughed coldly, brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear. “I wouldn’t say it was impressive. More like… predictable. But they’ll learn. I’ll make sure of it.”
Felix slowed down as they reached the stairs, his hands in his pockets, a thoughtful look crossing his face. “You know… Chloe’s always been a little bit of a loose cannon. But Marinette? She’s got something darker in her. I can see it in her eyes. She’s more dangerous than she lets on.”
Lila glanced at him, narrowing her eyes. “Are you saying we’re not the only ones who can play this game?”
Felix grinned, adjusting his scarf against the crisp evening air. “Oh, I’m not saying that at all,” he replied smoothly, looking at Lila with an almost lazy amusement. “I just think we should think of a distraction for that Marinette. Something to keep her occupied while we work.”
Lila tapped her chin in thought before her lips curled into a smirk. “Why not use Adrien? She’s always been head over heels for him.”
Felix let out a small, dry laugh. “Adrien? Really?” He turned his sharp gaze on her. “Have you seen those two? They’re not going to make a move on each other anytime soon. It’s like watching two bricks try to flirt.”
Lila raised an eyebrow. “So? What are you suggesting?”
Felix’s grin widened, his eyes gleaming with mischief. He leaned back slightly, his posture relaxed, but his voice was deliberate. “Maybe I should step in.”
Lila froze for a moment before realization dawned on her, her eyes narrowing as she stared at him. “You’re not serious.”
Felix shrugged nonchalantly, his smirk never wavering. “Why not? Marinette’s smart, I’ll give her that, but everyone has a weak spot. If that's Adrien’s, I can be her temptation.”
Lila crossed her arms, still studying him. “Why would Marinette even trust you when your kind of the reason I'm alive. And what happens if Adrien catches wind of this? You know he’s not exactly fond of manipulation.”
Felix chuckled, his tone dripping with mockery. “Adrien’s oblivious to most things unless they’re spelled out for him. And even if he finds out? Well, let’s just say that’s a problem for future Felix.”
Lila couldn’t help but laugh, albeit nervously. “You’re playing a dangerous game.”
Felix tilted his head, his smile sharp and foxlike. “You're just realizing that now?”
Lila rolled her eyes but couldn’t hide the faint smile tugging at her lips. “Fine. But don’t come crying to me if she slaps you across the face.”
Felix gave a small, theatrical bow. “Noted. But I have a feeling this will be far more entertaining than you think.”
They both stood in silence for a moment, the weight of their schemes settling in the air. Lila’s smirk returned as she realized the brilliance and chaos Felix could unleash. Together, they turned to leave, their next move already taking shape in their minds.