He covered his face with his hand, realizing for the first time the extent of Lemira’s sacrifices. He had been oblivious, underestimating the efforts behind her actions.
Lucian felt a pang of regret. He had taken Lemira for granted, unaware of her silent contributions.
He had failed as a brother.
Lemira wasn’t just being petulant; she had been deeply wronged. She was hurt!
Turning to the butler, Lucian commanded, “Bring me the gifts Lemmy gave to Evelina as an apology last time.”
The butler was taken aback, “But weren’t those gifts from Ms. Langston to Ms. Sterling as an apology? Mr. Lucian Langston, if you take them back, wouldn’t that be unfair to Ms. Sterling? She already feels like an outsider in the Langston family. If you do this, how can Ms. Sterling feel secure here?
You can’t possibly soften because of a simple meal, Mr. Lucian Langston. Ms. Sterling even made you soup and got injured in the process.”
After a moment of contemplation, remembering Evelina’s injury, Lucian softened.
“Alright, just bring back the gift I sent. Leave the rest,” he decided. He needed to initiate change at least.
That evening, after dinner, Lemira locked herself in her room and didn’t come out. Soon, there was a knock, and Lucian’s voice followed, “Lemmy, it’s me.”
Lemira opened the door, her expression indifferent, “What is it?”
“Here you are.”
Lemira saw a box containing an emerald necklace, familiar to her.
Wasn’t this the apology gift she had given Evelina? What was Lucian implying?
With guilt in his voice, Lucian explained, “Lemmy, I know I’ve let you down before. I’ve taken the necklace back. I’ll get a new one for Eve as compensation, but this one means something different to you. It shouldn’t have been given away.”
Lucian had been filled with regret, especially after their recent gathering. He admitted his lack of consideration.
Lemira was stunned. She hadn’t expected Lucian to return the necklace!
How unusual! In her previous life, she had never gotten these back until her died.
Lowering her eyelids, she replied calmly, “Not necessary. There’s no taking back what’s already been given.”
“Lemmy, please accept it. I won’t feel right otherwise. Consider it my way of making amends.”
How was this a way of making amends? A harsh treatment followed by a sweet consolation?
Noticing Evelina hiding in a corner with her peripheral vision, Lemira raised her voice on purpose, “Lucian, I have to criticize you for this. The gift was willingly given to Evelina. How can you just take it back without reason? You’re hurting Evelina’s feelings. Don’t you think, Evelina?”
Turning to see Evelina was there, Lucian felt guilty for not consulting her first.
Evelina had to step forward, “Lemmy, the gifts were always meant to be temporarily kept by me. I’m glad they’re returning to their rightful owner. After all, I have no right to such valuable gifts; I’ve always known my place.”
Her sincerity was palpable. Yet, after speaking, Evelina turned to leave, wiping away tears, visibly upset.
Lucian panicked, “Eve?”
Lemira leaned against the door, “Lucian, you should go comfort her.”
Lucian pressed his lips, “Lemira, I was sincerely apologizing to you. But why did you have to say those things and hurt Eve?
I admit my favoritism has caused you to feel neglected, but Eve hasn’t done anything wrong! Her father saved your life; don’t forget that!”
Lemira’s smile was tinged with bitterness.
Indeed, nothing had changed. She had almost let herself believe otherwise.