Chapter 44

Alaric arrived, his expression a complex mixture of emotions as he looked at Lemira. He hadn't needed to drop Evelina off at school that day, but he had done so anyway. He knew Lemira would be there.

He hadn't slept a wink the previous night. He'd even received a restraining order from her. What was that all about?

Seeing Alaric didn't surprise Lemira. "Doesn't Evelina often stay out late with you guys?" she asked.

Evelina's eyes reddened. "Lemmy, how could you say that?" she cried, her voice aggrieved.

"Lemira, what nonsense are you spouting? Eve is my sister! Apologize to her now!" Alaric exclaimed.

Lemira's gaze was cold. "She started it. I'm just returning the favor."

Evelina's voice trembled with sobs. "I didn't mean it like that. You misunderstood."

Alaric's barely contained temper flared. "Lemira, look at what you've become! Weren't you with the school doctor last night? That's the truth!"

Lemira looked at him silently, her gaze tranquil. Alaric immediately regretted his words.

Lemira found his accusation ridiculous. "That's none of your business," she retorted. She turned and walked away.

So many eyes were on him; he offered no explanation.

"Hold on, what do you mean it's none of our business? You're getting too bold just because you won a spot in the match. Why the gloating?" someone called out.

Lemira scoffed, ignoring them. Sitting at her desk, she completely disregarded everyone.

Alaric watched Lemira's distant demeanor, a burning frustration inside him. He dared not push her too far, especially since he was worried she might do something foolish in her anger. He had asked too many questions, upsetting her.

Alaric was frustrated. "Lemira's become so temperamental, relates to no one; it's like she's a completely different person. What does she want us to do to make her happy?"

A feeling that something was amiss gnawed at him. Changing the subject, he said, "What about the doctor, Alaric? What are you planning to do?"

"Make that man pay, of course," Alaric said grimly. "I'll head straight for the principal's office. This situation needs resolving."

Passing Lemira, she whispered, "Alaric's gone to see the principal." She stood, but before she could leave, a teacher walked in. Her exceptional performance in the finals was the topic of conversation.