N Laugh.
As dusk settled, the group of friends decided it was time to head home after a fun-filled evening.
Nathaniel, who was hosting this gathering at a private club, saw everyone off at the entrance until only a few remained.
He watched Giselle get into Lysander’s car and couldn’t resist pulling Lysander aside for a quiet word.
Come on, you owe me an explanation. What exactly are your intentions with Giselle?
Among their circle, Giselle was affectionately known as Sis Giselle because she was a bit older and always known for her competence since childhood.
Lysander glanced at him, his expression clear and sober under the moonlight, his voice steady. Why does it matter to you?
Nathaniel felt his irritation rising. We’re like brothers! Of course, it matters to me.
Giselle’s practically family to me, too. Can’t I show a little concern?
Listen, if you really have feelings for her, you should sort out your marriage first. It’s not fair to keep things ambiguous.
You don’t want things getting messy on both sides, do you? You’d be the one with the headache.
Lysander’s gaze was icy. Mind your own business. Maybe you should sort out your family issues first.
Nathaniel let out a frustrated laugh.
Seriously, I’m trying to have a real conversation here, and you’re stabbing me in the heart.
He knew his family, the Pembrokes, had their own share of drama—a tangled mess of unresolved issues spanning years. Did he really need reminding?
Unable to hold back, Nathaniel gave Lysander a playful punch on the shoulder. They’d been friends for years, after all. Despite the tension, he offered some heartfelt advice.
I’m serious.
Seeing Julian had made progress, Nathaniel felt it was time to introduce him to school life, hoping he’d make friends and become more outgoing.
When Nathaniel arrived, Julian was already wearing his backpack, waiting eagerly.
Despite not expecting much, Nathaniel invited Mila to join him in taking Julian to school. He still felt a little uneasy.
Mila declined the offer.
Until the court hearings were over, no one would tear her away from the hospital. It had become her second home.
But seeing Julian’s hesitant, longing face, she moved closer, crouched down, and gently kissed his soft cheek, offering quiet encouragement.
Julian, you’re amazing. You can do this, right?
Julian’s eyes sparkled as he nodded earnestly. Before Mila could rise, he leaned in and planted a kiss on her cheek, softly whispering,