When They Beg, I Rise!

Lemira's gaze was malicious, as if she were ready to pounce.

Evelina took a step back, "Lemmy, why are you glaring at me like that? It's not like I'm the one who knocked your stuff to the floor." Lucian approached with concern, "Lemmy, what's up?"

With considerable effort, Lemira suppressed her rising anger, "My stationery's busted."

"How can it be busted?"

Lucian glanced at the stationery, his face going pale, "You head inside, I'll run to the store and get you some new stuff right away." Regret gnawed at Lemira. She shouldn't have decided to stay with the Langstons.

She had been careless this time. Determined, Lemira planned to call Orion, having little faith in Lucian's promise.

Evelina chimed in, "Lucian, why not lend Lemmy mine in the meantime? I'll wait for you to bring the stationery." "No need, I'll buy her new ones."

Lucian turned to Lemira, "Lemmy, trust me, head inside, or you'll be late for the test."

Finally, Lemira gave Lucian a look before turning and walking towards the school to wait in the exam hall.

The day brought heavy rain and traffic jams, indeed leaving them almost out of time. But Lemira had a sinking feeling.

Evelina, passing by with her umbrella, feigned concern, "Hope Lucian makes it back before the test starts."

her large black umbrella, silently watched ahead, ignoring Evelina's words. Evelina, feeling snubbed,

resentful; she had hoped Lemira would only discover the

Lemira sure was lucky.

Lemira

up? You should be in the classroom right

for Lucian to bring new ones,

"Go wait

outside until a teacher reminded her to

finding her seat

hurried in, stationery in hand, which he handed to the proctor

en

but had

a sigh of relief after finishing the

exam hall, she looked up at the clearing

how'd it go? The rain was heavy, and the driver took a wrong turn; it took me ages to find

too late by then."

etched with guilt. Lemira remained cool; she had

She had grown accustomed to disappointment from