The Return of the Cannon Fodder Trillion Heiress - Chapter 197

Chapter 197: Chapter 197 Leo Saving the Damsel
“Please, don’t let her words bother you,” Leo said, a hint of fluster evident in his tone. He was taken aback by Minerva’s remarks, but when Hera heard him, she burst into merry laughter at his adorable concern. Leo’s impeccably handsome face crinkled slightly as he regarded Hera with a worried expression, unsure of how to ease her distress.

“I’m not giving her words a second thought. They’re not even worth my attention,” Hera stated firmly, then turned to Leo with a serious expression. “Anyway, I appreciate your help today. If you hadn’t shown up when you did, who knows how long Alexi would have kept holding onto my arm like that.” Her tone was teasing, but there was truth behind her words. She genuinely didn’t know how long Alexi would have continued to cling to her arm, or why he still tried to engage her in conversation when their relationship had long been over.

Hera couldn’t deny that Minerva’s hostility was somehow linked to Alexi. Despite her reluctance to admit it, she noticed Alexi’s lingering attention and sensed a lingering hope from him, which likely fueled Minerva’s animosity. As a woman, Hera could sense Minerva’s jealousy and insecurity, fueled by Alexi’s continued interest in Hera. Hera was neither blind nor insensitive; she understood Alexi’s intentions and Minerva’s motives. However, she made a conscious choice not to dwell on it. It wasn’t her problem anymore. She had her own concerns to focus on and address.

However, Hera couldn’t ignore the fact that Leo showed a genuine interest in her, and she couldn’t deny the attraction she felt towards him. His attentiveness and the way he treated her were enough to make anyone fall head over heels in love. Just his face and smile alone could captivate anyone, let alone when he demonstrated his gentle and affectionate demeanor. It was no wonder women would vie for his attention.

Hera found herself torn because she had a mission—to end up with the male leads. However, she couldn’t ignore the uncertainty of what would happen if her plan succeeded. She refused to act innocent or naive, knowing full well the mature and intimate nature of the novel. The R18 content emphasized the male leads’ intense relationships with the female lead. Hera feared involving Leo in her scheme and potentially hurting him. She understood that his perspective would differ significantly from that of the male leads.

He would be the outcast among them, more of an enemy than an ally. Hera didn’t want to burden Leo or make him feel like he was fighting for her love against everyone else. She didn’t even know where this mission would lead her or how much harm it could bring to her and her people.

After witnessing the male leads’ reactions towards Leo whenever he approached her, Hera realized they viewed him as an outsider, an enemy. She understood that it would be difficult for them to accept him and share her attention with someone unfamiliar. Unlike when it was just among themselves, where they eventually accepted each other and shared the affection of the female lead, Leo’s presence presented a unique challenge.

Unlike the attention from the male lead, Leo’s was the most genuine. If fate hadn’t dictated otherwise for her and her family, she wouldn’t hesitate to pursue a lifelong partnership with Leo. However, at present, she can’t prioritize her own perspective and feelings, considering the well-being of her grandfather and the others who had met tragic ends due to her family’s downfall. Their welfare weighed heavily on her mind.

She couldn’t discern if the attention from the male leads stemmed from genuine affection or if it was merely dictated by the storyline. As she gradually usurped the female lead’s opportunities to connect with the male leads, she grew uncertain about her ability to sustain this facade until the end. What if the female lead devised a comeback plan? The uncertainty gnawed at her.

“A penny for your thoughts?” Leo’s voice brought Hera back from her contemplation.

Hera met Leo’s gaze with a smile before bursting into laughter. “Why worry about uncertainties when I can’t find the answers now?” She linked her arm with Leo’s, her smile sweet and infectious. “Care to join me and my friend for lunch?” Hera pulled Leo along, banishing the uncertainty from her mind and choosing to live in the moment. She remembered Athena’s advice not to overthink things, and she intended to heed it.

She guided Leo to the meeting spot she shared with Athena. Leo was thrilled at the prospect of dining with Hera, regardless of the location. As they walked together, their interaction drew the attention of the surrounding students. Envious gazes followed them, as they appeared to be the epitome of a perfect couple. Everyone watched them dreamily, captivated by their chemistry.

Unbeknownst to Hera and Leo, Alexi and Minerva were following closely behind. Alexi trailed their every move with a seething glare, consumed by hatred. He despised seeing Hera show attention to other men, the attention she had been withholding from him lately.

Hera pulled Leo along to the cafeteria, unaware of the discreet individuals following them. These observers snapped pictures and captured short videos, promptly sharing them on social media and the university forum. The posts quickly attracted attention from admirers of beauty, particularly since Hera’s popularity soared after her appearance on “The Quest” variety show.

The photo and short videos of Hera and Leo quickly circulated among her fans.

[HeraismySister: Is sister Hera dating Leo now?!]

[AuntieNextDoor: They make such a lovely couple!!!!]

[SilverEmperor: What’s going on with Hera and that guy?! (ಠ_ಠ)]

[EntertainmentKing: Is he some kind of stalker?! How does he always know where Miss Ainsley is?]

[GoldenLight: Seriously, what’s his deal? (╬≖_≖)]

[FatherOfCaduceus: Is he really stalking her? Σ(ﾟд´;ﾉ)ﾉ]

[Dave_Carson: I have no words…. (｀ε´)ノ彡┻━┻]

As Hera and Leo strolled into the cafeteria, all eyes, even Athena’s, were drawn to them. They exuded an aura of timelessness, appearing as though they belonged in a mythic tale. Their undeniable chemistry and effortless grace captivated everyone around them, perhaps stemming from their innate qualities as natural leaders. Their harmonious presence radiated throughout the room, making it clear that they were meant to be together. No one dared to disrupt their perfect balance, lest they risk disturbing the serenity they brought with them.