Chapter 65
Was this supposed to be an apology? It felt more like a forceful push for her to simply accept it.
Lemira’s expression was cool, indifferent—a demeanor that weighed heavily on Alaric’s heart. Just moments ago, he’d been brimming with confidence, but now doubt was creeping in. He had bent over backward to apologize and make amends, thinking surely Lemira could see his intentions. He had never lowered himself like this for anyone before; Lemira was the first.
Evelina seized the opportunity to interject, “Yes, Lemmy, Alaric went all out preparing today’s dinner. You must see his sincere attempt at amends.”
Alaric’s expression turned slightly awkward. “Lemira, whatever you ask for, I can make it happen.”
Lemira raised an eyebrow, her voice laced with sarcasm. “My request is simple.”
“Go ahead.”
Alaric sighed in relief, thinking that as long as Lemira was willing to state her terms, she was on the path to forgiving him. He should have known better. Lemira was just acting out, thinking he was favoring Evelina! Once they patched things up, he’d find the right moment to have a serious talk with her.
“Starting today, stay out of my sight, and don’t ever take matters into your own hands like this again.”
Alaric’s face froze, his mind buzzing with disbelief.
Lemira turned and walked away, her departure firm and resolute. Stepping out of the training base, a wave of heat hit her, the summer cicadas chirping irritatingly.
“Lemira, what do I have to do for you to forgive my past mistakes? Just say the word!” Alaric followed her, looking at her earnestly, his tone more sincere than ever.
Finally, Lemira lost her patience. “Did you not understand what I just said? Maybe you should consider going back to school.”
“Lemira, we’ve been close since we were kids. Are you really going to hold one impulsive mistake against me for the rest of our lives, refusing to acknowledge me as your brother?” Alaric couldn’t believe she’d be so heartless.
Lemira only found it amusing. Just one mistake? It seemed Alaric still didn’t understand why she needed to distance herself from the Langstons. But she felt no need to explain. She didn’t want to look back, much less compromise. Her gaze was steady. “If that’s what you believe, then so be it.”
Alaric appeared deeply wounded, his shock palpable, unable to utter a word. He couldn’t fathom that Lemira truly no longer considered him a brother.
Evelina rushed over, standing in Lemira’s path. “Lemmy, everything that happened last time was my fault. I’m the reason for all this. Starting today, I’ll move out of the Langston mansion, and you won’t have to see me anymore.”
Evelina turned to Alaric, her eyes bloodshot. “Alaric, thank you for taking care of me all these years. I’m already more than grateful…”
Without thinking, Alaric grabbed Evelina’s hand. “This has nothing to do with you. It’s between Lemira and me.”
“No, Alaric, you don’t understand; it has everything to do with me. I need to take responsibility!” Evelina shook her head; her teary-eyed, understanding demeanor was heart-wrenchingly endearing.
Alaric couldn’t help but sigh. “Why can’t you be reasonable like Evelina, Lemira?”
Lemira raised an eyebrow, her eyes sparkling with scorn. “So, you have her. Isn’t that enough? Stop bothering me.”
“Lemira, you always think we favor Evelina over you, but have you ever considered your own actions? People reciprocate what they receive. If you were more understanding, we wouldn’t be in this mess. So, staying apart is the best solution for both of us.”
Lemira walked to the roadside, the area deserted with hardly any cars passing by. But she longed to leave this place.
Alaric blocked her path. “I think we need to have a serious talk and clear the air!”
Beep, beep, beep—the harsh blare of a horn cut through the air as a black luxury car sped towards them. Alaric turned to see the car charging towards him, showing no signs of stopping.
“Alaric, watch out!” Evelina ran towards them, and Alaric instinctively pulled her aside to dodge, but then he turned back to look at Lemira, who stood frozen in place.