With the two of them sorted, Stella dusted off her hands and tossed the rope into a nearby basket.

“I’ll cover today’s expenses. The rest is up to you.”

Stella didn’t reply. Instead, she curled her hand into a fist and bumped it lightly against Alessia’s. They didn’t need words–their understanding ran deep.

Aside from a handful of close friends, no one knew that Alessia was the true investor behind the bar. Outsiders all assumed it was just a little project her family had set up for her, a way to practice for when she’d eventually inherit the family fortune.

But Stella could swear on her life that the Laines hadn’t put a single cent into this place.

It wasn’t that the Laines refused to help; Alessia was just stubborn. She wanted to prove–if only to herself–that she wasn’t some spoiled heiress who could only live off her family’s money. No one could control her destiny.

“We’re heading out,” Alessia said.

“Alright, see you when classes start.” Stella shot a quick glance at Liam trailing behind Alessia, understanding the siblings needed some time alone. She didn’t

linger.

With a casual wave, the siblings stepped out of the bar. Neither spoke. Liam, guitar slung across his back, walked silently beside her, his face clouded as if weighed down by thoughts he couldn’t share.

to the end of the alley before Liam finally stopped. “Tonight

off, not waiting for a response before ducking into the convenience store across the street. The rest

paid without protest, while Alessia stepped outside

stride was long, and it took only a few steps for

1/2

15:40

the money for the ice cream

“I’m not that broke. Besides, it’s only right

cream. Don’t

us as family.” Alessia’s tone was light, almost careless–a stark contrast to Liam’s bristling defensiveness. It was

wasn’t stupid. He realized she was throwing his earlier offer to repay the damages right back at him.

the mess–it’s not your job to clean it up, is it?” He tried to reason with her, but Alessia was never one to play by the rules. She went by her own

all innocence, but Liam knew if she really did

coughed, trying to cover his discomfort. “So… what were you doing at the bar

online about a new live singer they hired–apparently brought in

the owner

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