When They Beg, I Rise!

After Lemira spoke, everyone looked complex.

Lifting her gaze to meet Orion's, Lemira summoned all her courage to hold his stare. Orion's lips were a thin, cold line, his usually relaxed hand now clenched slightly, betraying a hint of timidity. For all his life, fear was foreign to him, but in this moment, Lemira's thoughts were an enigma he couldn't decipher.

Lucian was specially taken aback, "Lemmy, what do you mean by that? Why is there no need?"

He felt there was every need! It's crucial to prevent Lemira from getting entangled with this man! If this guy was after money, with ulterior motives, Lucian needed to know how to handle him. Lemira replied with a calm demeanor, "Lucian, don't play matchmaker so casually. You weren't this nosy before. Mr. Everhart, being the catch that he is, doesn't need your matchmaking services." Lucian could only nod in agreement, "Alright, your word is law. I was just looking out for Mr. Everhart, seeing as he's a friend of yours. No harm meant."

Thaddeus snorted. Only a fool would buy that explanation. Clearly, Lucian's attempt to set Orion up was a ploy to test the waters.

But it inadvertently aligned with Orion's reasons for coming back, making things easier for him.

Lucian returned to his seat, "Lemon had a bit of a fallout with the family recently, and you here were kind enough to look out for her, Mr. Everhart. I'm grateful for that and will return the favor should you need anything." "No need for such formalities."

Orion poured himself a glass of red wine and took a few sips. He wasn't much of a drinker, yet at this moment, he felt an urge to indulge.

fell on Lemira, who was sitting primly, her long hair cascading down her shoulders, her fair skin highlighting her serene presence. Orion allowed himself only a glance before quickly

The dinner ended quietly.

alone offer toasts. Their status didn't grant them such liberties.

and started, "Tonight's on me, as a token of appreciation for looking after my sister, Mr.

leisurely, "If you know she's important, avoid

sister. I'm the last person in this world who

"You know that better than anyone, I believe." Lucian was slightly irritated, "And you don't have any right to look after

the response behind her, Lemira tugged her lips, her expression

pace down the stairs,

breeze outside offered her

me," Lucian pleaded earnestly, looking at Lemira. "I promise,

eye, Lemira saw Orion approaching, his stride confident

BUMS

pulled up to the curb, rolling down the car