Chapter 68

Asher paused, glancing briefly at Grace before his gaze shifted to Drake, who stood behind her. His voice was deliberately casual. "Drake, where are your gentlemanly manners?"

Grace froze, staring at Asher in disbelief. Drake's expression darkened slightly as he met Thalia's calm gaze. He wondered if Thalia had truly forgotten him, or was merely maintaining a brave façade. The thought spurred him to extend a hand to Grace. "Don't worry, Grace. I'll help you across."

Grace lowered her eyes and spoke through gritted teeth, her voice barely audible. "What are you playing at? I wanted Asher to help me."

Drake replied, "If he won't help you, would you prefer to remain stranded in the stream?"

"I don't need your help either," she retorted.

"Suit yourself," Drake said, releasing her hand. Grace cried out, nearly losing her footing. Instinctively, she grabbed Drake's hand. "Just help me across!"

Drake gave a cold laugh, rolling his eyes inwardly. Seeing Grace was no longer in danger, Asher turned and continued walking.

The group progressed with frequent stops, and evening soon approached. The setting sun cast a golden glow across the horizon, birds returning to their nests, painting the sky with spectacular colors. The scene was breathtakingly beautiful. At one particularly scenic viewpoint, Sebastian stopped first to take photographs. Those following behind paused to capture the stunning vista. Victoria, panting and leaning heavily on her hiking pole, finally reached the spot and was immediately captured by Sebastian's camera. He grinned mischievously. "That's absolutely brilliant—perfect meme material in ultra-high definition."

Victoria glared. "Sebastian, delete that instantly!"

"Not a chance. This gem deserves to be savored properly."

Victoria found a large rock to sit on, admiring the sunset. "I'm far too exhausted to argue with you now. I'll deal with you later."

When Thalia and Asher reached the viewpoint, the sunset's golden rays bathed them in a warm orange glow, softening even Asher's sharp features.

"You two are absolutely perfect together," Sebastian remarked, aiming his camera at the couple and pressing the shutter. The photograph showed Thalia squinting at the sunset, Asher standing beside her, his eyes fixed on her with devotion.

Sebastian showed Asher the image. "Just look at that expression—I'm half in love myself. What's that poem again? 'You stand on the bridge watching the scenery, while the one watching the scenery is watching you from the tower.'"

James laughed. "Well, well, quoting poetry now, are we?"

Sebastian gave him a sidelong glance. "It's a famous verse—even I know it. I may have been more interested in sports than books at school, but you can't honestly believe I'm completely uncultured."

Victoria scoffed. "Those with the least learning are always the most eager to show it off."

"Really now," Sebastian protested, "must you undermine me at every turn? Can't you at least pretend to respect your brother in public?"

Asher examined the photograph with appreciation. "Your photography lessons weren't wasted. This is excellent. Send it to me later."

Sebastian held up two fingers. "For this price."

Victoria looked disgusted. "You're charging for a photograph? Look at you, acting like some shameless merchant. How embarrassing—please don't tell people you're my brother."

"Hush," Sebastian retorted. "What would you know about this, you child?"

Asher's eyes danced with amusement. "Twenty thousand pounds?"

Sebastian shook his head. "This is the photo of the century between you and Thalia. For something this perfect, you're offering just twenty thousand? Firm price: two hundred thousand! You can display it on the big screen at your wedding. Look how perfect it is—the atmosphere, the lighting—absolutely magnificent!"

Thalia laughed. "Sebastian, you truly are a shameless merchant. Two hundred thousand for one photograph? Are you really trying to extort us like this?"

"Deal," Asher agreed. "Email it to me. WhatsApp will compress the quality."

Sebastian's face lit up. "Brilliant! I do appreciate a decisive man!" Thalia watched in astonishment, though she said nothing. It wasn't her money.

Gazing at the sunset, Thalia felt a profound sense of peace. She spread her arms wide, embracing the wind, and let out a joyful shout. The accumulated fatigue vanished, leaving her feeling lighter than she had in ages. Victoria joined in, their delighted voices echoing through the valley, startling birds into flight.

Grace, utterly exhausted, finally reached the viewpoint, panting heavily. Hearing Thalia and Victoria's shouting, she frowned in displeasure. Eliza rolled her eyes. "Victoria had the nerve to say I lack class, but look at her screaming like that. How is that behaviour befitting a proper lady? All that racket—hardly the conduct of someone from good society."

Vanessa added, "Eliza, don't lower yourself to her level. What sort of people would associate with Thalia anyway?" This insult to both Thalia and Victoria made Grace and Eliza laugh.

Meanwhile, Charlotte suggested, "With such a beautiful view, why don't we take a group photo?"

"Brilliant idea!" Victoria jumped up. "Sebastian, take it for us."

"How can I be left out of a group photo?" Sebastian protested, then offered his camera to Grace. He hadn't noticed Grace's feelings for Asher, assuming her earlier clinginess was sibling affection.

Victoria quickly grabbed Sebastian's arm. "Absolutely not." The camera contained the photos of Thalia and Asher. Victoria worried Grace might damage or lose it.

Sebastian looked confused. "Why not?"

Victoria quietly called him a "bloody idiot" before saying aloud, "Let's just not have them take it. I've brought a selfie stick—we can use our phones instead."

"How can a phone camera compare to a proper DSLR?"

"It can't, but it's good enough," Victoria replied, already setting up her phone. "Charlotte, Thalia, come stand beside me."

Charlotte and Thalia took positions on either side of Victoria. Asher stood next to Thalia, James beside Charlotte, and Sebastian, shrugging, placed himself next to Asher.

Victoria extended the selfie stick and smiled. "One, two, three, cheese!" The women smiled radiantly, making peace signs; the men offered slight smiles. The resulting image was surprisingly harmonious. Victoria took several photos, the women changing expressions and poses, while the men maintained the same demeanor.

Grace watched from the sidelines, jealousy rising in her eyes. Why hadn't they invited her to join the group photo?