Chapter 123  “I really don’t want to repeat myself!” Lucian, usually the epitome of calm, now had an air about him that was, frankly, a bit intimidating.  He glared at Alaric, his frustration evident. “Have you forgotten why you’re here today?”  It was then that Alaric cooled down, remembering his original intention for attending the party was to mend fences with Lemira.  But how had things escalated to this point?  Sensing the tension, Evelina cautiously said to Alaric, “Let’s go, Alaric. My foot’s starting to hurt.”  Reluctantly, Alaric left with Evelina, without offering an apology.  Lemira watched the spectacle unfold before her, finding the whole situation absurd.  Apart from that, she felt nothing.  elina’s antics and Alaric’s reactions were all too familiar, and they only served to deepen her disdain.  Lucian, swallowing his own discomfort, carefully said to Lemira, “I apologize on Alaric’s behalf. I never expected him to act this way.”  When Alaric boldly demanded an apology from Lemira, Lucian felt even more remorseful.  Lemira’s voice was cold. “I don’t accept his apology.”  “Lemmy, I understand why you’re upset, and so am I. But you really shouldn’t sign with PixelStage. The industry is complex, and Lucian doesn’t want you to end up at a disadvantage.”  Lucian looked at her hopefully. “You’ve always been sensible and obedient. I’ve neglected you in the past, but that changes now. If you sign with VibeCast, we can offer you all the resources you need.”  “I’ve already agreed to sign with PixelStage,” Lemira responded, her tone nonchalant.  Lucian was taken aback, unable to believe Lemira had moved so quickly.  “You decided on such a big step all by yourself? Didn’t you think to discuss it with the family?”  “My decisions are my own,” Lemira said before turning away, unwilling to engage further with Lucian.  Watching her walk away, Lucian felt a mix of heartache and helplessness. Lemira had changed; she no longer relied on him or orbited  his world.  The party incident soon faded into the background.  As a gamer known for her twelve–strike combo, Lemira was popular at the party.  Eventually, PixelStage’s manager approached her with a contract in hand. “Ms. Langston, there’s no time like the present. How about we sign the contract today?”  Lemira nodded. “Sure.”  Lucian watched silently, finishing his glass of red wine as he struggled with his emotions.  Standing on stage, Lemira exuded confidence and excellence.  It’s then Lucian realized his sister had grown up. She was no longer the little girl who depended on her family.  After the party, Lemira had made several new acquaintances.  She and Jessica left together, with Jessica bubbling with excitement. “Today was just perfect. Evelina got what she deserved. I could wake up laughing from that alone.”  Lemira smiled. “After all this time, Evelina hasn’t changed her tactics.”  But Lemira wasn’t about to sit back and let herself be the victim.  “Ms. Langston, let me give you a ride home,” offered Michel, eager to help.  Just as Lemira was about to decline, Lucian stepped in. “No need to trouble anyone else. I’ll take my sister home.”  Michel raised an eyebrow. “Are you sure she wants to go with you?”  “She’s still my sister, Michel. Best not to get any ideas.”  Lucian wasn’t keen on Lemira getting involved with Reapers.  Lemira stepped back, increasing the distance between her and Lucian. “I can manage on my own. I don’t need a ride from either of you.” “Lemmy, there’s something I need to talk to you about.”  1/1  J