Chapter 524
"Brittany! Brittany!" Brandon wanted to chase after her, but he was still worried about Alexander. He had come to apologize properly and prevent further tension between their families.
Two days earlier, Brittany had come home sobbing. Her parents were initially furious to discover she'd been beaten and wanted revenge. However, upon learning she'd provoked a fight with Alexander's fiancรฉe, their anger shifted to apprehension. They knew Alexander's character. If only Brittany were injured, they could seek justice. But since their daughter had initiated the altercation, and they didn't know the extent of the other woman's injuries, they were in a difficult position.
They decided to send Brandon to apologize and resolve the matter. If the children apologized, the Oakleys could salvage their reputation. Brandon stood, bowed, and said solemnly, "Alex, I know my sister is at fault. I apologize to you and Ms. Christian on her behalf. However, as you've seen, Brittany was also injured. Ms. Christian appears unharmed. For the sake of Brittany's years of affection for you, please spare her. I promise she won't bother Ms. Christian again." His joking manner was gone, replaced by seriousness and a clear attempt to defend his sister.
Alexander turned to Lily. "What do you think?"
Lily was perplexed. How can he throw this back at me?! After a moment, she replied gracefully, "While I initiated the incident, I wasn't injured; my friend was. Your apology should be directed to her. Yes, Brittany was hurt, but that doesn't make it even. Brittany wouldn't have been injured if she hadn't provoked a confrontation. My friend acted in self-defense."
"What do you mean, Ms. Christian?" Brandon asked.
"Simply, I want an apology," Lily said. Pausing, she continued before Brandon could respond, "However, Ms. Oakley's reaction suggests that's unlikely. I believe you're sincere, Mr. Oakley. I'll pass your apology to my friend. Initially, I wanted compensation for my friend's medical expenses, but given Brittany's injuries, we'll call it even."
She glanced at Alexander, as if saying, See how reasonable I am!
Alexander, missing the implication, said, "You'll still need to compensate."
"No problem!" Brandon replied immediately. "We'll cover the medical expenses and won't claim compensation for Brittany. We value our long-standing relationship and hope to continue collaborating in the future."
Alexander nodded. "As long as you don't cross the line."
"I understand." Brandon, now acutely aware of Lily's importance to Alexander, bowed again. "I'll take my leave." He was still worried about his sister. Alexander dismissed him with a wave, and Brandon hurried out.
"Satisfied with how we handled that?" Alexander asked after Brandon left.
"Did you orchestrate this?" Lily asked.
"I was proving a point. No one hurts you," Alexander said, gently taking her hand.
Lily's attention shifted. "By the way, why does he call you 'Fourth Russel'?"