Chapter 27
I stared at the giant stuffed bear. I’d never agreed to participate in the finals. And yet… this bear was from a brand I used to love. It was a limited edition, hard to find. In my past life, I’d finally managed to buy one, only for Sophie to demand it for a giveaway during one of her livestreams. Lucas had pressured me to give it to her. In the end, the bear was given to a so–called fan, but that fan turned out to be a freak. They dismembered the stuffed bear, stuffed it with a dead rat, and sent it back.
Looking at the bear, I was flooded with memories of my past life’s tragic end. I’d thought I’d forgotten all this, yet these events kept resurfacing.
One of my fans asked, “Lina, are you really participating in the finals? I heard you’re not on the team roster!”
Nathan answered gently,“The roster hasn’t been updated yet. Lina is an Ashford. Werewolves never abandon any family. She wouldn’t miss the team competition. Besides, the finals are after the WAT, so it won’t interfere with her studies.”
“How does Lina manage to excel in both academics and gaming?”
“I’m so envious of Lina having so many brothers who care about her so much!”
Their words felt deeply ironic. They’d stabbed me countless times, and now they think a stuffed bear can erase everything?
My expression remained cold.“Nathan, I don’t like stuffed bears anymore. Didn’t you know?”
Nathan’s face stiffened.“Really? I remember you loved them.”
“That was before. I’m a high school student now; my interests have changed.”
Nathan looked embarrassed. He felt even more guilty; he hadn’t even realized I no longer liked stuffed bears.
Sophie stepped in.“Nathan, you’re so busy with work, taking care of your siblings. It’s understandable that you can’t remember everything. But at least you remember what Lina likes. I don’t have a family; no one remembers what I like. I envy Lina having family who care about her.”
Nathan softened. He felt I was biased against him, but Sophie was so considerate, it was hard not to favor her.
He said, “Sophie, you’re part of the Ashford family. I remember what you like, and I’ll surprise you later.”
Sophie feigned surprise, turning to me.“Just take the gift, Lina. It’s something others would envy, something you don’t want, but others can’t even get.”
I stared at Sophie. Was she trying to take everything from me?
I snatched the bear and shoved it into Sophie’s hands.“Now you have it.” The bear, and my six brothers. You can have them all.
Then I turned and left. Belated concern was worthless. I wouldn’t be swayed by such petty gestures.
“Lina, where are you going?”
Nathan hurried after me.“I know you’ve suffered a lot. I’ve been too busy with work and neglected your feelings. I promise it won’t happen again.”
I felt a surge of resentment. For the sake of my past self, who had given everything. Apparently, the crying child gets the candy, but I wasn’t after that candy.
My expression remained calm.“That’s enough. Don’t follow me.”
He blocked my path. “No, you have to come home with me. You can’t be with the school doctor. I spoke to the principal, and I’ve arranged for Lucas to move out of the villa, so there’s no violation of rules, and you’ll be safe.”
My face darkened. I knew this was coming.
“Lina, I’m your guardian, not the school doctor. Rumors are spreading, but I can ensure you stay home to prepare for the exam.
Chapter 27
I lowered my eyelids, concealing my anger. My voice was hoarse.“So, Nathan’s promise not to let me suffer… is th
Nathan sighed. “I’m doing this for your own good! Family conflicts aren’t a big deal. Why do you have to run away to force our hand?”
That phrase again–for my own good? Then why was I abandoned and died such a tragic death in my last life?“I HATE BETRAYAL!” My wolf yelled in my head, she almost losing control.
I walked away, my only support being the countdown to the WAT. I couldn’t cause trouble for Jason. Even if nothing happened today, things could get much worse if Nathan got serious.
After getting into the car, I texted Jason: “I’m going home. I’ll talk to you later.“*
Nathan breathed a sigh of relief after watching me leave. It seemed she was merely sulking; a little show of weakness had made her reveal herself. He decided to show Lina more care in the future, preventing her from thinking he favored Sophie.
Back at the Ashford house, I got out of the car without acknowledging anyone. Nathan watched my back, sighing helplessly. Sophie, clutching the bear, struggled to get out of the car.“Nathan, I believe Lina will understand your kindness.”
Nathan looked at Sophie’s obedient demeanor.“If she were as well–behaved and understanding as you, I’d be grateful.”
Sophie lowered her head, her expression perfectly docile.
That evening, at dinner, Lucas was absent. Only Nathan and Sophie were present. I ate quietly and prepared to return to my room, noticing Nathan clutching his stomach, looking uncomfortable. He’d always had a sensitive stomach and needed careful diet and medication.
In my past life, I’d diligently taken care of his stomach, only to be surpassed by a bowl of congee made by Sophie. I’d never forget Nathan throwing away the medicinal meal I’d made, embracing the congee Sophie had prepared, his face filled with gratitude.
I hardened my heart and left the dining room without a word.
As I left, Nathan stared at my retreating figure, feeling disheartened. Before, whenever he showed signs of stomach discomfort, I’d rush to his side, full of concern. He endured the pain. Didn’t I care anymore?
A sharp pain pierced his heart. He stood up and left the dining room, his steps unsteady. The fur of his wolf looked dull and lifeless; he was in a bad condition.
Sophie remained alone. She sensed a change in Nathan’s attitude through mindlike. She had to salvage the situation.
Back in my room, I remembered Nathan’s pained expression. I forced myself to not overthink it. He didn’t need my concern, did he? Sophie’s congee was enough, wasn’t it?
I texted Jason: “My brother didn’t cause you any trouble at school today, did he?”
A moment later, his call came in. His voice was cold.“I presented the evidence of their assault, with a lawyer present. What could possibly go wrong?”
1 smiled. No wonder Lucas was moved out of the dorm.
“Kid, if they bully you again, I’ll come get you immediately.”
I hit my lip.“Why are you so good to me?” We didn’t have any relation, though.
I regretted the question the instant it left my lips.
