When They Beg I Rise (Lemira) novel Chapter 12

So, she was determined not to make the same mistake twice!

Lemira's gaze was clear and unwavering, "Alaric, I wanna focus on my exams; I can't afford to get distracted by video games."

She had flat-out declined Alaric's suggestion. Or rather, his command. Alaric's words hadn't been a discussion; they were an announcement.

"Lemira, am I hearing this right? You're actually turning down my offer?" Alaric's face fell; he demanded she join the team, and had never anticipated her refusal. After all, Lemira had always been compliant these years, never once defying him.

Standing her ground, Lemira retorted, "If it's an invitation, then it's within my right to decline."

She met his gaze squarely, watching his frustration grow, yet it was none of her concern.

Alaric, visibly irritated, warned her, "Think carefully before you answer, Lemira. Don't act out of spite, or you might end up regretting it when you're begging me for another chance!"

He had heard from Caspian about the recent incident where Lemira, in a fit of pique, had given away the gold trophy he had presented to her as an apology to Evelina.

That trophy, from the year he went pro and clinched the championship, held significant value to him. How dare Lemira give it away?

Evelina tugged on Alaric's sleeve carefully, "Ari, don't get mad. Joining your team is like a dream come true for me. Lemmy will come around."

Her words only fanned the flames of Alaric's anger. He felt Lemira was being ungrateful by refusing him.

Alaric glared at Lemira, "This is a one-time offer. Decide now, do you wanna be part of our family team or not?"

Lemira couldn't help but find the situation somewhat amusing. So, Alaric was just a puppet, easily manipulated by Evelina.

Evelina, feigning concern, urged, "Lemmy, just say yes. Don't upset Ari."

Lemira looked at her, "Evelina, since joining the team is your dream, I'll let you have my spot."