Even Tiffany found Alexia's behavior unbelievable, let alone Zoe. The Harper family's excessive pampering had made Alexia arrogant, domineering, and unreasonable at such a young age. She expected the world to cater to her every whim; a spoiled princess whose bad moods disrupted the entire family.
Kenneth usually gave in to his sister, but this time, he publicly scolded and even hit her. His reprimand was, admittedly, satisfying to witness.
Tiffany glanced sideways at Kenneth, who unexpectedly met her gaze. "My sister is naughty," he said. "I apologize for the trouble she's caused you repeatedly. I'm sorry. I'll discipline her properly in the future." He bowed slightly, a gentlemanly apology, before leaving.
Zoe remained stunned long after he'd gone. "Is he possessed?" she exclaimed. "Why is he acting so strangely?"
Tiffany shrugged, her initial surprise giving way to relief. If Kenneth hadn't intervened, Alexia's behavior might have had serious consequences. His actions seemed purely protective.
Tiffany picked up a basketball, leaped, and made a perfect shot. Basking in the sunlight, she looked exquisite in her sports uniform, her long hair flowing elegantly. Her stunning beauty was captivating; sweat beaded on her slender neck, releasing an alluring scent. Though seemingly fragile, she possessed astonishing strength and a wild beauty that contrasted sharply with the delicate, temperamental girls who often surrounded her.
Several boys, in various jerseys, gathered nearby, drawn to her impressive basketball skills. Their whistles and exclamations of "Cool!" filled the air. With a lazy smile, Tiffany arrogantly hooked a finger. "Let's play," she challenged.
The energetic boys readily accepted. One, playfully, said, "Let's settle this. If you lose, don't say we're bullying you."
"Of course not," Tiffany replied confidently. "You might be the ones losing."
"Interesting!" the boy exclaimed.
Team formation ensued, with everyone vying to join Tiffany's side, reluctant to appear to bully a girl, especially one so impressive. After a brief debate, teams were chosen by coin flip.
The game began. Zoe, unfamiliar with basketball, cheered enthusiastically from the sidelines. Tiffany's agility and accuracy were astounding; every shot was perfect, although the match was ultimately just for fun.
Laughter filled the court, but Kenneth's gaze followed Tiffany intently. He remained nearby, yet unwilling to approach her. Watching her athleticism, he seemed to see the younger Tiffany who used to follow him. He was touched, yet regretful, hiding his loneliness.
On a nearby rooftop, Melody sat precariously by the railing, her legs dangling. She watched Tiffany play and observed Kenneth's distant observation. A knowing smile played on her lips as she called Kenneth.
The phone rang for ten seconds before he answered. "Hey, what's wrong?"
"Kenneth, where are you?" Her voice was cold.
"I'm at the sports field. What's wrong?" he replied casually. He frowned. "Why's the wind so loud where you are?"
"Oh," Melody laughed innocently. "Because I'm on the rooftop."
Kenneth's blood ran cold. "Come down! Melody, it's dangerous!"
"Really? But it's nice up here. It's quiet," she said nonchalantly, smiling. "Kenneth, do you think I can fly if I jump?"
Terrified, Kenneth pleaded, "Come down, or stay put. I'm coming to you." He ran towards the building.
"Alright, I'll wait," Melody said before hanging up. She watched him run, a satisfied smile on her face. Now, are you still in the mood to think about her?
Chapter 232
Kenneth reached the rooftop, breathless and sweating. He extended a hand. "Come, let me help you down."
"Alright," Melody responded, taking his hand. He pulled her into a hug, relieved. "Thank God!"
Melody blinked. "Why are you so nervous? Did you think I'd jump? I'm not that stupid."
"Then why were you sitting there? It's so high! Don't you know how dangerous it is?" Kenneth began, but Melody lowered her head, her voice filled with loneliness. "I just wanted to see you. You haven't been paying attention to me lately. I wanted to see you, but I didn't dare to disturb you, so I had to get higher to find you."
Kenneth was stunned. He had neglected Melody, even though he'd initially been supportive. He was the only person she could trust, yet he'd changed, becoming conflicted and indecisive. He smiled bitterly. Tiffany was right; he was an asshole, even worse.