Lemira jumped at the sudden stop, glancing at the man beside her. What’s up? she asked, trying to sound casual yet concerned about the abrupt braking. Just spaced out for a moment, Orion admitted, his gaze fixed on the car ahead, though his mind was far from present. Could the Langstons have found out?
All the while, Orion wished their journey could stretch out a bit longer. The moment Lemira reached the hospital and found out from Lucian who was in the car responsible for the accident, things between them would never be the same. But the road was clear, not a single traffic jam in sight.
Glancing at the hospital building, Lemira said to Orion, If you’ve got things to do, you can go ahead. I’ll just catch a cab back.
I’ll wait here, Orion said, his voice heavy, as he braced for the outcome that belonged to him.
Lemira nodded and got out of the car. But then, Orion called out, Lemira.
She turned back, seeing him struggle to find the words. She walked back to him. What is it?
Orion’s hands were sweaty with tension. It’s just… no matter what happens in the future, I’ll always have your back.
Lemira offered a tight smile. I know. I’ll text you if anything comes up, she said before turning to enter the hospital, leaving Orion to watch her go, his expression a mix of hope and dread. Unable to help himself, Orion lit a cigarette, never before feeling time drag so painfully.
—
Inside the hospital, Lemira found Lucian being coaxed to eat by Hogan. Lucian’s face lit up at her arrival. Lemmy, you’re here! Did you eat? I would’ve had Hogan pick you up if I knew.
It was a spur-of-the-moment decision, she replied, her tone cool as she focused on Lucian. I want to know the truth about that car accident.
Ms. Lemira, could it wait until after the boss eats? His stomach… Hogan began.
No need. I’m not hungry. Don’t make Lemmy wait, Lucian interrupted, pushing aside his covers to get up.
Lemira noticed the bruising on Lucian’s hands from the IV needles and softly suggested, Maybe you should eat first.
Hogan was pleased. See, Ms. Lemira is even saying you should eat. You’ve got to do it for her, at least.
Lucian hesitated but eventually sat back down to eat. Midway, he wiped a tear from his eye. It’s been ages since we had a meal together as a family.
Lucian remembered the family
gatherings where Lemira would
cook, catering to their varied tastes.
But since Lemira’s departure, the Langston gatherings ceasedpand Orvin’s mansion felt empty
The room fell silent.
Hogan, seeing Lucian eat, happily told Lemira, The boss hasn’t been eating well lately. Only you can get through to him.
I’m not that important Lemira said, sensitive to such remarks.
Hogan quickly apologized, I didn’t mean it like that.
After Lucian finished his meal and Hogan cleared the dishes, Lemira pressed, Can you tell me now?
Look, Lemmy, everything about that night has been investigated. If you haven’t remembered, why burden yourself with knowing? That’s why we never told you, Lucian explained, echang the family’s protective instincts.
Lemira frowned. But I’m an adult now, not a child. I have the right to know.
Alright. Did Caspian tell you there was someone else in the car? From what we know, that person came from a wealthy family, part of the Orvin elite. And you didn’t find out who it was?
Lucian shook his head. No. The
road was new, cameras weren’t operational, and it was night. Whoever was in that car likely fled under the cover of darkness