When They Beg, I Rise!

Lemira's fair complexion and quiet demeanor contrasted starkly with the stubborn defiance in her eyes.

She firmly responds, "I could say it a hundred times more, and it would make no difference. I refuse."

Seizing the moment, Evelina played up her charm, "Asher, don't be mad, okay? I've got a private tutor for extra lessons. I'll catch up on my grades in no time. Lemmy's been hitting the books hard too, that's how she's made such progress. I promise I'll learn from her!" Lucian chimed in, trying to explain, "Asher, I'll figure something out for their grades, you don't need to worry so much."

But Asher was clearly upset, "Stop making excuses for Lemira, both of you. I know what she's like. She's been acting up ever since Evelina joined the Langston family because she feels discomforted.

Lemira, let me make it clear. No matter how much you sulk or even threaten to run away from home, it won't change the fact that Evelina is part of our family now. Even if you leave, she won't be going anywhere, got it?"

Lemira's eyes were downcast, her facial expression obscured.

Seeing her look down, Lucian felt a pang of sympathy, "Lemmy, Asher didn't mean it like that!"

Lemira looked up, her gaze cold and voice tinged with detachment, "It doesn't matter." She turned and left the room, unable to stay a moment longer.

Lucian's face fell, and he started to follow Lemira, but Asher's angry voice came, "Stay right there. You're just too soft on her, and that's why she walks all over you."

Lucian felt helpless, "Asher, it's not like that."

Lemira had changed. In the past, he might have thought Lemira was just being moody.

But recalling Lemira's expression just now filled him with worry; he had never seen her look like that before.

Trying to lighten the mood, Evelina said, "Asher, Lucian, let's not fight. It's my fault for not doing well in school. If only I were as smart as Lemmy. It's all because I'm not quick-witted."

Asher's tone softened slightly, "It's not your fault. Evelina, you've been distracted because of Alaric's team activities. Caspian has already briefed me on what's been happening. And stop covering for Lemira. Now that you're a Langston, we won't favor her just because she's blood-related."

Evelina broke into a smile, "Thanks, Asher. I'll work harder, I promise."

Winning over Asher had always been the toughest challenge. With Asher frequently away from home, Evelina had always been somewhat afraid of him.

Fortunately, today Lemira unwittingly gave her a chance to shine.

Yet, Lucian felt that Asher was misunderstanding Lemira. He explained, "Asher, Lemmy was part of the competition too. If it weren't for her pulling through in the clutch, we wouldn't have won the playoff."

"Hmph, I almost forgot. She pretends to reject joining Alaric's team, hoping to make him beg her to join. Then, when Evelina steps in, she feels out of place and starts practicing in secret, waiting to steal the spotlight." "Asher, that's not the case."

Suddenly, Lucian was overwhelmed by a sense of helplessness.

Realizing how Asher was treating Lemira made him see how he might have treated her in the past. Had Lemira been distancing herself because they'd hurt her so deeply?

For a moment, Lucian was at a loss for words, realizing how merciless his deeds were; he might be the one at fault, not Lemira.

Seeing Evelina and Asher getting along as if Lemira's absence was of no consequence, Lucian felt a twinge of discomfort. Today was supposed to be about celebrating Lemira's achievements, something he had arranged specifically for her. Seizing a moment when Asher was distracted, Lucian quietly slipped out of the room.