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!

pea brain, can you even appreciate good food?"

no need to

quietly following Lemira out of

still somewhat resentful, followed them out. "Tough times running away from home, huh, Lemira?

around. "Why

you focus

After all, his

up

to mess with."

this life, Evelina hadn't stolen her glory

the scheming girl going to

That seemed unlikely.

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

for Dorian's mother, only for it to be returned the next day with a

was clear she

Fuming, Evelina's face contorted

velbet

determined to marry into the

lady, and forever outshine

up

over, flashing an innocent smile.