15.9%
Chapter 26
Chapter 26
Julian’s POV
My family status was peculiar–adults thirty years my senior called me “little brother,” while kids barely three years younger called me “uncle.” The situation was somewhat comical.
From my earliest memories, I endured non–stop language, finance, and equestrian lessons. Even meals and sleep followed strict protocols. Deprived of childish amusements, I’d stand by the floor–to–ceiling windows in my study, watching the other children play in the snow, while tutors lined up at my door and the fireplace kept me warm.
My father said that those born with everything must naturally sacrifice something.
So I became their observer.
The Hayward girl was similar–standing in corners, playing all day without anyone acknowledging her presence.
So I became her observer too.
I noticed her tightly gripping her clothing, her expression hurt yet restrained.
When picking up Jade from school, among the uniformed students, I always found Lyra.
Watching her grow up, blossoming into a graceful young woman by seventeen, politely greeting me.
My heart skipped.
I wasn’t lying to her–I truly don’t remember when I started having feelings for her.
It was a gradual, incremental process.
That night, fine rain fell steadily. Returning home, I found Jade absent.
The driver mentioned Jade’s classmate’s birthday party–she’d skipped tutoring.
But what about Lyra? Had she brought an umbrella?
After sitting idly for some time, I suddenly decided to go buy cigarettes.
In the alley–a broken umbrella, whimpering cries.
I got out of the car and grabbed the golf club from the backseat.
Strike after strike–he weakened, but I couldn’t stop until I heard her sobbing.
I wanted to approach,
But she trembled with fear.
Finally, I called Maddox.
10:32
Secretly Dating My Brother’s BFF… Until His Hotter Rival Stole the Spotlight
16.2%
Chapter 26
My father had just started using a cane. He used all his strength to strike my back:
“What have I taught you? Self–restraint and propriety! You used to excel at both. Are you determined to destroy everything I’ve built?
“You could have just saved her and left. Did you consider the consequences before beating him half to death? Was creating an enemy worth it?”
I said: “I couldn’t help myself.”
“Couldn’t help yourself? That was the Haywards‘ business! What does it have to do with you? Do you still not recognize your error?”
I looked directly at him: “If it happened again, I still couldn’t restrain myself.”
His hand trembled, dropping the cane.
A lifelong strategist, he immediately saw through my intentions.
He cursed furiously: “You beast! You absolute beast! How old are you? She’s barely eighteen…”
I was ordered abroad to handle international business.
Before leaving, I often sat outside her house, watching her tightly drawn curtains.
I sent her lilies of the valley, hoping they’d bring her luck.
Later, I became busy, but heard she was gradually recovering.
Through her private Instagram, I glimpsed her happiness with that Raine boy she’d always secretly watched since
childhood.
It seemed good–she looked happy.
But while Jade received gift after gift, tailored to her preferences, while Lyra didn’t even get her beloved lilies of the valley.
He seemed indifferent to her likes and dislikes.
I thought it was time to return home.
Before returning, I used Jade’s phone to call Raine:
“It’s Julian Storm. Jade is returning soon. I wonder if you’re available to welcome her back.
“By the way, she loves lilies of the valley.”
My father was right. I’m not a good person.
10.23
Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.