When They Beg, I Rise!

When Lemira thought she couldn't take it anymore, Evelina finally showed up, panting and apologetic, "I'm so sorry, I got caught up planning the game with Ari and the crew, totally lost track of time." Caspian, ever so cool, replied, "No worries, you're pitching in for the family. Beats being a ungrateful wretch."

The driver, in a calm tone, reassured, "No problem, I'll step on it."

Yet, they still ended up late. Rushing to the classroom, they were caught red-handed by their teacher.

Evelina, pale and out of breath, stammered, "I'm so sorry. It's all on me. I held Lemmy up."

Lemira kept a straight face, silent.

The teacher glanced at them, softening a bit towards Evelina, "I get it, no need for a long explanation. Head on in."

"Thank you."

As Lemira followed, the teacher's stern voice stopped her, "Lemira, don't slow Evelina down again. This is your last warning!"

Lemira turned, "Sir, Evelina already explained. It's her, not me."

"Enough. I know your type all too well. Argue again, and you'll stand through class."

bit her tongue and entered, feeling worse

lunch, Evelina was the star, surrounded by admirers

of her sneered at Lemira, "Some are just

bothering to correct them. Lemira rested

school, Evelina flaunted her plans as she

her sidekicks,

I will

to overshadow Lemira and prove herself the

---

backpack, Lemira headed straight for the

a chair gracefully, his

that's okay?" Lemira walked in

boldness, expecting someone more timid. Yet, when Lemira asked questions, she

brain

the simple

scolding, jotting down

and her growling stomach betrayed her hunger, which made her flushed despite the