After Lemira returned to her apartment, she couldn't quite keep her mind on anything. She was convinced that Evelina was behind this latest stunt. Such a petty move, but utterly disgusting all the same. She tossed and turned over it until she finally dialed the ethics hotline, "I want to report someone for cheating on the exam."

To fight fire with fire.

Lemira wasn't entirely sure if Evelina had actually cheated, but given her track record, she probably rigged the score. Regardless, Lemira was determined to give Evelina a taste of her own medicine. Stepping out to grab some groceries, Lemira spotted a familiar car parked along the street. She quickened her pace, pretending not to notice.ConTEent bel0ngs to Nôv(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

"Lemira." Alaric hurried after her, "I came to give you a heads-up."

Lemira's lips twisted in a sardonic smile, "That's funny, I don't remember asking for your help."

"Lucian's come down with something nasty, can't handle the company's affairs, so Asher got wind of it. He also heard about your top score in the city."

"And?"

"Asher's flying back tonight. You know how he is. I suggest moving back in until he's gone, then you can leave again if you want. Lucian and I will keep your secret."

He knew Lemira was really hurt, that was why she had left the Langstons. He had to mend things, slowly but surely.

Lemira hadn't expected Asher to return. Yet, after the exams, it's inevitable, just like in her past life. She would have to face him eventually.

Lemira kept her expression cool, "No need."

"Lemira, going head-to-head with Asher isn't necessary. You'll only get hurt at that time. And it might even drag that school doctor into this. You know how Asher's temper, what he is capable of." Lemira's frustration grew, "I know how to handle it by myself, no need for you to meddle."

She was well aware of the complications with Asher. But she wasn't going to take Alaric's offer. Having left the Langstons, she wasn't planning on going back. Alaric sighed helplessly, resigned to finding another way.

Back at her apartment, Lemira ran a

hand through her hair, her irritation palpable. She wasn't worried for herself; she concerned that Orion would get entangled.

After ending her live stream that evening, Orion was nowhere to be seen. Waiting on the sofa, Lemira eventually fell asleep, only to be awakened later by the front door opening.

en

Blinking her eyes open, she saw those two, Orion helping a drunk Thaddeus back home.

She stood up, "Did you guys have a night out?"

"You haven't slept?"

Orion took Thaddeus to his room and tossed him on the bed. He turned to look at Lemira, "You have something to tell me?" "Yeah."

Orion took off his suit jacket, loosened his tie and unbuttoned his shirt a bit more.

Lemira rushed to get some lemonade, setting a glass by Thaddeus' bedside before bringing one over to Orion.

His gaze lingered on her delicate

hands, his Adam's apple bobbing "What's up?" He suspected it had something to do with the fake angel's cheating accusation

Lemira looked at him, "I've been thinking of finding a new place. I don't think I should stay here any longer." Orion raised an eyebrow, his gaze fixed on her face, detecting her unease and hesitance, "Why's that?" "Because, well, crashing here for free isn't right. I've saved up some money, so I can afford my own place now." She continued, "And if your girlfriend comes over in the future, it'd be awkward for Thaddeus to be here."

"Worried about where my girlfriend would sleep?"

His voice was husky, teasing even as he lounged on the sofa casually, shirt undone to reveal his collarbone without a hint of modesty.