Lemira, I understand you feel slighted, believing we favor Evelina. But isn't it because her father saved your life? And she's always been such a sweet and sensible girl—is it so wrong to treat her a little better? If you're going to blame anyone, blame me, but leave Evelina out of it.

Lemira felt her temples throbbing. She was momentarily speechless.

With a mocking smile, she replied, "I'll blame myself. Is that okay?" Blaming herself for not seeing through the so-called family bond sooner, Lemira stormed off to class.

Lucian stood outside, looking helpless. He wanted to mend fences with Lemira, but she seemed unwilling. How could he make her understand his iciness stemmed from the fact that she was his actual sister, unlike Evelina, which explained his more lenient treatment? It wasn't favoritism!

Evelina approached. "Lucian, I'm sorry. Maybe I should move out to prevent Lemira from being upset with you. I hate seeing you and your sister alienated because of me."

Lucian managed a weak smile. "Don't be silly. It has nothing to do with you. You don't need to move out. You're my sister, always."

Evelina smiled. "Promise? Pinky swear!"

Lucian looked at Evelina fondly, wishing Lemira could be as understanding. "You need to focus on your studies," he said, "and stop having classmates do your homework."

Evelina's face stiffened slightly. "I know I was wrong."

"As long as you learn from your mistakes." Lucian appreciated Evelina's apology and wished Lemira would follow her example.

Back in class, Lemira noticed Wendy's empty seat, but felt no sympathy. A few days later, the school announced a cheating incident; Wendy and Evelina were both reprimanded.

After the lecture, the teacher announced, "The results are in, and I'd like to give special praise to Lemira for making significant progress, securing tenth place. Everyone should learn from her dedication."

The classroom buzzed with surprise.

"Wow, Lemira's not just great at video games, but her grades are top-notch too!"

"Lemira improved so much—there's still hope for me!"

"How does Lemira manage both gaming and studying?"

Seeing her own progress, Lemira smiled contentedly. Could this mean she had a shot at Orvin University?

The teacher smiled at Lemira. "Why don't you share your secret to improvement?"

Lemira, uncharacteristically nervous, stood up. "I had an epiphany: live for myself. And, well, pulling all-nighters helped." Living for herself, no longer sacrificing for the so-called family.

As Evelina saw Lemira in the spotlight, her face twisted with jealousy. How dare this nobody outshine her! Watching her test paper, she crumpled it, blaming Wendy for getting caught.

After lunch, Lemira returned to class to find love letters in her desk, catching her by surprise.

The monitor leaned in. "Lemira, you're the talk of the town—e-sports goddess and straight-A student. The heartthrob from the private high school next door has been asking about you, even wants your contact info."

The heartthrob from the private school? Wasn't that Evelina's secret crush?

Chapter 53