Chapter 7: Chapter 7

Early in the morning, Lorne was already sitting in my room waiting for me to wake up, with freshly ironed clothes hanging by his side.

He approached me, coaxing me to get up just like he used to:

"Time to get up for breakfast."

Lorne kissed my forehead, and I immediately opened my eyes wide and sat up.

"What's wrong? Can't your brother give you a little kiss?"

I was stunned, thinking this must be basic etiquette overseas. After stumbling through a few sentences, breakfast was over.

But after that, my feelings toward Lorne underwent a subtle change.

The banquet was at noon, in the largest event center.

Lorne escorted me into the venue, his arm linked with mine.

As soon as we entered, I saw Alec.

I froze in place, feeling as if my feet were weighed down by a thousand pounds.

"Elowen, we must have the courage to face our past. True strength lies in making a graceful exit!"

I turned around, looking at the man before me.