When They Beg, I Rise!

"Got it. After all, there are so many gold diggers out there these days, hiding your identity helps in developing a genuine connection! But, isn't my sister-in-law a bit too young? You into younger girls now?" Orion's tone was laced with impatience, "None of that's true. Drop it, and don't stick your nose where it doesn't belong. Got it?"

Matthew shrank a little, "Alright, I got it." Just a question, why get so heated?

After laying down the law, Orion finally spoke up again, "You thinking of inviting her to join the team?"

"Ah, crossed my mind, but I'm more interested in getting under Alaric's skin. The dude's all bark and no bite! Heard he doesn't get along with his sister, so thought I'd stir the pot."

"Wait till her exams are over before you pull any stunts. Don't do these things right now; it might influence her."

Once Orion hung up, Matthew wasted no time adding Lemira as a friend in the game, curious about what she meant to his brother.

He'd never seen his brother with a girl before. And definitely never seen him treat any girl this well!

A month flew by in no time.

Lemira watched the classroom countdown hit zero, and finally, the day had arrived. She was determined to correct the mistakes of her past, starting here.

After school, Lemira headed straight for the infirmary.

Thaddeus waved, "Lemon, big test tomorrow, feeling nervous?"

"Not really, more like looking forward to it."

looking all stern and distant. But she knew Orion was one of

saw the anticipation in her eyes; she

calmly, "Good

"I'll need it."

smiled, "Guess I'll

hear those two words from him. After all, aside from Orion,

left, Thaddeus clicked his tongue, "Such a bright and polite protege makes

remained silent, eyes closed,

exams are done, you planning on heading back? Or

slowly opened his eyes, a deep, unreadable look within them. Forever? He hadn't thought about that He just did

---

The exams began.

a great night's sleep and woke

the dining hall for breakfast. The family chef made

was coughing weakly, looking like she hadn't

worried about Evelina, "You alright?

to her defense, "All because she got

but chose to ignore it. Not

tried to smooth things over, "Lucian, it's just me being weak, and

don't be so hard on yourself.