Chapter 17

Lemira straightened, knowing Evelina's father had saved her life. Therefore, she didn't object when Asher brought Evelina home, treating her like a sister.

However, Lemira soon realized Evelina was subtly undermining her relationship with her brothers. This soured their bond.

Lucian's voice rose in frustration. "Lemira, listen! Do you think we're trying to hurt you? We want you and Eve to get along. Can't you even do this? How long will you hold this grudge?"

"I'm not holding a grudge."

Lucian's words rendered her pent-up questions pointless. Past attempts at explaining herself had been futile. She refused to be swayed by her brothers' opinions any longer.

Silently, Lemira packed her textbooks into her backpack on the coffee table. Glancing at her bag, she murmured, "There's nothing else. I'll go to my room."

Lucian, on the couch, looked distressed. "Lemira, if you join the team now, we can forget the past."

Lemira laughed at the absurdity. Her past actions seemed trivial now. Without another word, she ascended the stairs, her steps resolute.

Lucian, agitated, lit a cigarette.

The butler approached. "Mr. Langston, if Ms. Langston is unwilling, let it be. We still have Ms. Sterling."

Lucian frowned. "It's not the same."

"Mr. Langston, I may be overstepping, but you've been away, and since Ms. Langston's return, she hasn't inquired about you. It's disheartening to see her coldness."

Lucian extinguished his cigarette and drove away from the villa.

From upstairs, Lemira watched, guessing he was heading to the training camp. After showering and reviewing her notes, she resolved to leave.

Accidentally staying up until dawn, Lemira packed everything, went downstairs, grabbed a sandwich, and rushed out.

Lucian was the first downstairs. Noticing Lemira's early departure, he frowned. "She's up this early?"

"Ms. Langston has been using public transport, avoiding the chauffeured car since Ms. Sterling's discussion with you made her late last Monday. She's held a grudge ever since."

Lucian's expression grew complex.

Caspian interjected, "Is it worth it? Over being almost late? Such pettiness! Who is she trying to impress?"

Alaric yawned. "Lucian, Lemira's just putting on a show to gain your sympathy. If you give in, she'll only push harder."

Lucian remained silent. He felt Lemira needed to learn her lesson; he'd given her a chance, but she'd squandered it. Evelina, overhearing, smiled and bounded downstairs. "Good morning, Lucian, Caspian, Alaric. Let's have breakfast."

Evelina's cheerfulness brightened Lucian's mood. At least one sister was on the right path.

After pulling an all-nighter, Lemira struggled to stay awake in school, but paid attention.