Chapter 44

Lucas turned to Justin and snarled, “I don’t want to say too much to a brat like you. If this happens again, I’ll go talk to your parents!” He then grabbed Noelle’s wrist and said, “Get in the car. We’re leaving!”

Noelle subconsciously tried to break free, but she was dragged into the car.

Xenia quickly ran over and asked, “Lucas, are you mad at me for what I said? I was just stating facts, to prevent a fight. After all, Justin has his family’s support in Yasnia. If we argued here, Donovan would have a hard time with the Parhams.”

Lucas, though initially angry, calmed down considerably after hearing Donovan’s name. He said, “If Donovan finds out that little punk harassed Noelle, he’ll go after the Parhams.”

Xenia felt uncomfortable. She and Noelle were treated differently, and she wondered why Lucas was there. She asked, “Lucas, haven’t you been busy? Why are you picking us up from school?”

Lucas glanced discreetly at Noelle, who continued staring out the window. He was unhappy at her ignoring him, but controlled his temper. He was there to make amends with her.

He said, “I’ve moved out for a while, so I was curious how you two were doing.”

Xenia noticed Lucas staring at Noelle and guessed he hadn’t found anyone suitable for his esports team. Noelle, in a bad mood, watched the cars pass. When she finally looked around, she realized she wasn't at the Liddell residence, but at the base of Lucas’s team training camp. The place was filled with team pictures and posters.

Noelle hadn't expected this. As soon as she got out of the car, several people rushed to surround her.

“Congratulations on joining our team!” “Noelle, could I get your autograph?” “Noelle, could you tell me the secret to the 12-hit combo?”

Noelle frowned. She hadn't agreed to join.

Lucas spoke up. “Alright. Let’s stop scaring her. Shall we go have lunch?”

Noelle was then “pushed” to the canteen. Xenia’s mood fell as she watched.

Lucas noticed Xenia’s restrained smile and explained, “Xenia, I’m sure you understand my team’s situation. We haven’t found a suitable gunner, and Noelle is our best bet. So, I have to ease the tension.”

Xenia replied, “Lucas, I understand. You don’t have to explain. I was partly to blame for what happened last time. I’ll apologize alongside you later. I hope she can forgive me. Once the whole family is part of the team, I’ll handle logistics and support you!”

Lucas sighed in relief at Xenia’s understanding. However, Xenia’s smile faded when he left. She resumed her usual demeanor before heading to the canteen.

Noelle was pushed inside and saw a large banner: “Welcome to the team, Noelle!” She realized things were horribly wrong. She quickly texted Cedric: “Could you come pick me up?” She also sent her location.

Lucas approached, looking uncomfortable. He said, “I know I was wrong during the repechage. I shouldn’t have laid my hands on you. During the past few weeks, I’ve reflected on my actions and am truly remorseful. I apologize to you in front of everyone. I hope you’ll forgive me.”

Noelle stood rooted to the spot, staring at the banner. She found the entire situation utterly ridiculous. Her eyes darkened as she slowly lifted her head. It seemed like some people just needed to be taught a lesson!