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.
His gaze inadvertently 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 averting his eyes, feeling an unexplained irritation.
The dinner ended quietly.
The rest of the company staff, aside from the main characters, dared not speak up, let alone offer toasts. Their status didn’t grant them such liberties. Lemira stood up to leave the room, her thoughts elsewhere as she walked ahead.
Lucian trailed behind, deliberately walking beside Orion, and started, “Tonight’s on me, as a token of appreciation for looking after my sister, Mr. Everhart.”
Orion strolled leisurely, “If you know she’s important, avoid actions that would hurt her.”
“Lemira’s my sister. I’m the last person in this world who would hurt her.”
“But you’re also the one most likely to let her get hurt.” Orion’s gaze was icy, “You know that better than anyone, I believe.” Lucian was slightly irritated, “And you don’t have any right to look after her, what are you? What do you take my sister for?” Orion’s Adam’s apple bobbed sightly, “A friend.”
Hearing the response behind her, Lemira tugged her lips, her expression somewhat forlorn.
Yes, just a friend. Quickening her pace down the stairs, Lemira felt her emotions in turmoil.
The cool breeze outside offered her a moment of clarity.
“Lemmy, come home with me,” Lucian pleaded earnestly, looking at Lemira. “I promise, things will be different from now on.”
Out of the corner of her eye, Lemira saw Orion approaching, his stride confident and his figure tall. Her heartbeat inexplicably quickened.
BUMS
Thaddeus pulled up to the curb, rolling down the car window, “Sweet Lemon, time to head out.”
Without hesitation, Lemira turned and walked towards Thaddeus’ car.
Lucian did not ready to give up, “Lemmy.”
Orion stepped in front of Lucian, eyes downcast, his expression
utterefferent, “Perhaps, you.
should learn to respect her choices.”
BUMS