When They Beg, I Rise!

Lemira had this niggling feeling that she'd dined at Bistrova before.

It was Thaddeus who had footed the bill last time they visited that joint.

Orion, feeling slightly guilty for once, managed a strained response. "Yeah, it's the same place we hit up before."

After all, it was Thaddeus' treat.

Lemira nodded, "I knew that name rang a bell."

Evelina covered her mouth to stifle a laugh. "Oh, cut the act, you two. You only went to some knock-off version of Bistrova, not the real deal I was talking about. Given your status as a mere school doctor, I doubt you could afford a meal there." Evelina had walked in just now, spotting Lemira with a man, and couldn't resist joining them.

Sure enough, it was Lemira with that broke school doctor.

Thankfully, Lemira was still hanging out with that loser, leaving no room for her to swoop in on Dorian. That gave Evelina some peace of mind.

Lemira's fair face took on a frosty expression. "It's just a meal. Are you starving for attention or what?"

"Why are you getting so worked up, Lemira? I just want your boyfriend to treat you better. Skip these dive bars and at least aim for a decent diner." Evelina was in high spirits, finally having something to hold over Lemira.

At the very least, her boyfriend was loaded.

But Lemira's boyfriend was just a broke school doctor, doomed to be a pauper for life!

with your pea brain, can you even appreciate good food?" Lemira retorted before grabbing

to stick around

glanced down but didn't resist, quietly following Lemira

running away from home, huh, Lemira? If you're strapped for cash, just say the

turned around. "Why

you focus

After all, his

up to

to mess with."

hadn't stolen her glory

scheming girl going to win over Dorian's tough

That seemed unlikely.

her foot in frustration. How did Lemira know Dorian's mother didn't

even bought a gift for Dorian's mother, only for it to be returned

clear

Fuming, Evelina's face contorted

velbet

to marry into the

lady, and

Dorian pulled up in his

jogged over, flashing an innocent smile. "You