Kamian shrugged his shoulders, no, he pleaded for words. Just as he was about to grasp his throat, the professor came to Kamian's rescue.

"On rare occasions, this relic may not affect higher-ranking vampires. Their formidable magic can overpower the power of the artifact. In such cases, use holy water. During my time as a saint, I have encountered hundreds of vampires. Although I have come across vampires who are immune to the relic, I have never encountered a vampire immune to holy water."

In other words, Kamian was immune to the relic due to his immense power as a vampire. Well, it's no wonder Luke and all the other humans were utterly powerless against that scoundrel.

"You don't have to return the holy water and relics I gave you today. If any vampires appear before you from this day forward, you should be able to protect yourself, right?"

I gazed at the holy water and relic before me, and let out a sigh. Then, I gently brushed Kamian's cheek up and down.

"Please live a righteous life, my dear."

* * *

As soon as I arrived home after all the lectures were over, I began my exercise regimen. Today's physical training involved sit-ups. Kamian firmly wrapped my legs to prevent any movement.

"Ugh... Ugh!"

"Come up a little higher."

"Ah, ugh!"

"No, you can't. You can't even count to this height."

That wicked and heartless child! I exerted all my strength, feeling like my face would burst. Finally, my upper body separated from the ground. Kamian's malicious lips parted.

"Four."

"Phew!"

Upon hearing the count, I collapsed on the floor. My body felt hot and sweaty, and my energy seemed to drain away through my fingertips. Oh, I can't take it anymore. My chest rose and fell heavily.

"You said you could do more than five."

"I will. Just wait... Ah, wait a moment, ah... I have something to do... Ah, yeah..."

Kamian rested his chin on my knee.

"What's on your mind?"

If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.

...Wait and see. What excuse should I make to explain what I was thinking? I rummaged through my spinning head and randomly picked a topic.

"During theology class today..."

"Go on."

"You didn't even flinch when touching the relic."

"Did that impress you?"

"Yes. I want to see it again."

Honestly, it was somewhat impressive. But I didn't want to see it again that badly. However, I lied to quickly finish this hellish exercise of sit-ups. I'd rather hold a basket of potatoes for a long time. Sit-ups would make my face and stomach explode, I swear.

I reached out my hands toward Kamian.

"You have to get up for me to show you."

"...Can't you see my hands? Hold them."

"Hold your ears."

This wicked demon, Kamian, made me do five more sit-ups without any mercy. Because I insisted on doing one more, I successfully completed today's workout with a total of six. Exhausted, my body bathed in sweat, and my strength drained away. Ah, I'm done for.

After finishing my bath and returning to the bedroom, I found Kamian lying on my bed, reading a book. I sat on the edge of the bed, shaking my head vigorously.

"Move over and let me dry my hair."

In a low, commanding voice, he pushed me away. Finally, I was forced to retreat to a chair, and only then could I sit on the bed after drying my hair. Kamian continued to read his book without interruption.

I snatched the book he was engrossed in reading. Seeing his scowling expression, I lay down on the adjacent spot.

"Phew. It's so childish."

It was unlike Kamian to enjoy reading romance novels. Once, he stayed locked in his bedroom all day, and when I finally opened the door and went in, I found him reading a romance novel, tears streaming down his face. I teased him about it for about a year. I want to tease him again.

"Give it to me."

"Stay right there. Let me take a look too."

"Do not turn the page. I have carefully marked the section... Ah."

When I closed the book abruptly, Kamian let out a genuine sigh.

"Why did you read my book in my room, knowing it could be taken away from me?"

Kamian closed her mouth, covering her eyes with her forearm, appearing disheartened. Although I felt a tinge of guilt, laughter escaped my lips involuntarily.

"Alright, I understand. From now on, I won't touch your books ever again."

"You said the same thing last time."

"This time, I mean it. I truly won't touch them."

"..."

"Shall I find the page for you? Do you remember which part you were reading? 'I'm ready to abandon everything. Let's run away together.' Is that correct?"

I gently caressed the palm of Kamian's hand, which was placed next to her face. The limp palm then tightened around my hand.

"Give me the book. Go to my room and finish reading."

"Why? Wasn't I waiting for you?"

"..."

"I waited for you because I wanted to see you touching the relic. Show it to me quickly."