Chapter 165  Alaric retorted, “Even if Lemira didn’t ace her exams, it’s not like she needs to take a gap year or something. Her grades are better than most of us here, aside from Rowan. She’s pretty much killing it.”  The progress she made in just a few months was something most people could only dream of.  Evelina was taken aback by Alaric’s defense; she looked at him, not expecting him to stand up for Lemira as well.  Lucian had been acting differently, and now Alaric too showed signs of change. A wave of panic swept over Evelina.  She couldn’t bear the thought of losing her brothers‘ favor.  Evelina said uneasily, “I get that Lemmy’s grades have shot up, but maybe this sudden improvement isn’t stable, you know? That could be why she underperformed.”  Lucian was in turmoil, “Isn’t your school hosting a seminar on college applications tomorrow, where gap year options are also  scussed?”  Evelina nodded, “Exactly.”  “Let’s check it out tomorrow then.”  “Lucian, do you think I should take a gap year too?”  Evelina wasn’t really keen on the idea; she found it pointless and much preferred earning through her live streams.  And she had her sights set on entering showbiz through Caspian’s production company!  Lucian was calm as ever, “Eve, even at your best, you’re not hitting the top tier college mark. No need for a gap year, just go for a major you love in college.”  Lucian had made up his mind. He was going to persuade Lemira to consider a gap year.  This time, he was determined not to make any mistakes. Without Evelina around, he wouldn’t let Lemira face any injustice.  After saying his piece, Lucian left.  Watching his retreating figure, Evelina bit her lip, frustrated. What was Lucian’s speech all about?  It meant she was no match for Lemira? Even if she took a gap year, it wouldn’t be as meaningful as if Lemira did.  Alaric seemed to sense the awkwardness and scratching his head, said to Evelina, “Eve, don’t take Lucian’s words to heart. He’s always been extra protective of Lemira, but it’ll blow over.”  “Alaric, why would I dwell on it? After all, Lucian’s been good to me too. I’m content with what I have.”  After putting on an air of understanding, Evelina turned to Zack, “Is the soup I made for Lucian ready yet? It might not be as good as Lemmy’s, but I hope it eases his stomach pain.”  Should be ready in a bit.”  Seeing Evelina’s mature behavior, Alaric felt a bit relieved, “No worries about the exams, Eve. Let’s hit a bar tonight, unwind a bit.”  “Cool, I’ll go upstairs and get changed then. Zack, could you please take the soup up to Lucian later?”  Evelina was excited, turning to head upstairs. But just as she had slipped into her dress, her phone rang.  Glancing at the screen, she saw a number she didn’t recognize. It had called a few days ago, but she hadn’t picked up.  Evelina figured it was a wrong number and didn’t think much of it. Yet, the number called again.  Feeling pretty good, she answered cheerfully, “Hello, who’s this?”  “Evie, it’s me.”  The familiar voice on the other end made her mind go blank. Her hand trembling, she lowered her voice, “Who are you?”  Why did the voice sound exactly like her father’s, who had died years ago in a car accident while working as a driver for the Langstons, trying to save Mr. and Mrs. Langston before the vehicle exploded?  “Evie, it’s complicated, and I can’t explain everything right now. But I need you to wire me some money, it’s urgent.”  “Scammers are getting bold, impersonating my deceased father to swindle me? Do I look that gullible?”