Chapter 15

When Lemira felt she could bear it no longer, Evelina finally arrived, panting and apologetic. "I'm so sorry," she said, "I got caught up planning the game with Ari and the crew; I completely lost track of time."

Caspian, ever cool, replied, "No worries, you're pitching in for the family. Beats being an ungrateful wretch."

The driver calmly reassured them, "No problem, I'll speed up."

Yet, they still arrived late. Rushing to the classroom, they were caught by their teacher.

Evelina, pale and breathless, stammered, "I'm so sorry. It's all my fault. I kept Lemira waiting."

Lemira remained silent, her expression unchanged.

The teacher glanced at them, his demeanor softening slightly toward Evelina. "I understand," he said. "No need for a long explanation. Go on in."

As Lemira followed, the teacher's stern voice stopped her. "Lemira," he said, "don't slow Evelina down again. This is your last warning!"

Lemira turned. "Sir, Evelina already explained. It was her, not me."

"Enough," the teacher said. "I know your type. Argue again, and you'll stand through class."

Not wanting to miss the lesson, already falling behind, Lemira bit her tongue and entered, feeling worse than ever. She longed for the exams, her escape from this situation.

During lunch, Evelina was the center of attention, surrounded by admirers eager to hear about her esports team adventures.

One of her companions sneered at Lemira. "Some are just jealous of Eve, dragging her down on purpose."

Evelina smiled, making no effort to correct them. Lemira rested her head on the desk, ignoring the chatter.

After school, Evelina flaunted her plans, gazing at Lemira. "Off to training camp," she announced.

Lemira silently packed her things, her back to Evelina, who smirked at her perceived victory. To her companions, Evelina delegated, "Homework, as usual. Don't get caught."

"Don't worry about us," they replied. "Chase your dream; we've got your back."

"Thanks," Evelina said. "I'll repay you."

Evelina left, delighted and determined to overshadow Lemira and prove herself the rightful Langston heiress.

Carrying her backpack, Lemira headed straight for the infirmary.

Orion sat gracefully on a chair, a hint of amusement in his expression. "What's up?" he asked.

"Hmm, I'm here to study, if that's okay?" Lemira walked in confidently, hoping he wouldn't dismiss her.

Orion was surprised by her boldness, expecting someone more timid. However, when Lemira asked questions, she received thorough answers.

"Can't your brain retain anything?" he asked. "Figure out the simpler things on your own."

Lemira accepted the reprimand, diligently taking notes.

The room was quiet, and the rumble of her hungry stomach betrayed her, causing her to flush despite having eaten bread earlier. Glancing at the time, Orion ordered food. "Let's eat first," he said.

Facing him, Lemira noticed the scar on his wrist and asked, "When did you have that accident? Was it serious?"

Orion quietly arranged their meal.

"It's been years," he said, his gaze distant as he looked at Lemira.

"Me too," she replied. "My parents died in a car crash, leaving just my brothers and me."

Lemira recalled her reliance on her brothers, a bitter smile playing on her lips. After their parents' death, life had been hard, but they had remained close. Then Evelina arrived, and everything changed.

Orion clenched his cutlery. "What's your plan?" he asked.

"I'm aiming for Orvin University," she replied. "To leave this town and start fresh."

"How ambitious," he said. "With your grades? Dreaming of Orvin University is a long shot."