If Roland embodied the epitome of excellence, then Ryan was a lost cause.
Recalling the gentleman she met that afternoon—charming, refined, yet exuding an undeniable aura of authority—Mila couldn’t help but shake her head as she glanced at Ryan standing before her.
The Lockwood brothers were as different as night and day.
With Roland in a custom-tailored suit and currently in the country, it was clear he was attending some significant event. Was he planning to shift his focus back home?
Judging by Roland’s strict adherence to rules, Mila couldn’t fathom how such a disciplined family could produce someone as carefree and reckless as Ryan—a rebel without a cause.
Was it a case of extreme repression leading to rebellion? Or was it simply negligent parenting?
But Mila had her own issues to deal with and no time to dwell on the Lockwood family drama. She just hoped Ryan would stay out of her way.
Mila rubbed her arm and said calmly, All I’m saying is, you’re an adult now. Maybe it’s time to start acting like one, like your brother.
With that, Mila turned away, heading out of the garage. She knew Ryan wouldn’t dare do anything. Though she had never met Roland, the infamous elder Lockwood, she had heard plenty about him.
Ryan respected—or perhaps feared—his older brother.
As long as Roland was around, Ryan would keep a low profile. He didn’t want a repeat of the college incident when his brother had broken his leg, forcing him into the hospital.
Besides, Mila had reached her limit. She was done with patience.
If Ryan wanted to pick a fight, he could bring it on. She wasn’t about to let anyone walk all over her.
Behind her, Ryan’s face turned dark with anger. He clenched his fists, glaring at Mila’s retreating figure, his voice seething with frustration.
MILA! You’ve got some nerve!
…
Ryan downed another drink and approached them.
Giselle turned, concern flashing in her eyes as she took the glass from his hand, Drinking so much on an empty stomach isn’t good for you.
Ryan chuckled, I was waiting for Giselle to take care of me.
Get out of here with your antics, Giselle scolded playfully, her eyes sparkling under the dim lights. Ryan was momentarily transfixed until Lysander’s piercing gaze reminded him to look away, feeling a sense of unease. Lysander, he stammered.
In his mind, Giselle belonged with Lysander.
His earlier gaze had crossed a line, and he knew it was inappropriate, leaving him feeling guilty.
Giselle noticed and hid a smile behind her hand, her eyes full of amusement.
She changed the subject smoothly, Ryan, didn’t you invite us here for a reason? Stop keeping us in suspense.