Chapter 71 Bastian Comes Home
+20 Free Coins
Skyler, never one to miss an opportunity to stir the pot, remarked with deliberate nonchalance, “If not for Bastian’s interference, this matter would’ve been resolved much sooner.”
His words hung heavy in the already tense atmosphere. Wesley’s frown deepened so severely it could have crushed flies between his brows.
“After all Sydney’s done for him.” Matthias muttered darkly, his jaw clenched. He’d witnessed firsthand how hard Sydney had worked to help Bastian secure that championship. That they’d lost was entirely Azalea’s fault–how could anyone blame his precious Sydney?
The fact that Bastian’s teammates had dared accuse her was unforgivable.
If Bastian had truly chosen Azalea over his sister for the sake of some meaningless trophy, Matthias would make him regret it.
Gently squeezing Sydney’s hand in reassurance, Matthias adopted a soothing tone. “Bastian would never hold such a trivial matter against you.”
“It seems that Bastian has forgotten where his loyalties should lie,” Wesley declared sternly, his displeasure evident.
That Bastian had sided with Azalea was bad enough, but his complete absence during Sydney’s ordeal was inexcusable. What kind of brother abandoned his sister when she needed him?
Ivy, still hurting from seeing her precious daughter getting bashed online, couldn’t hold back anymore. Even if Bastian was her son, this time he’d gone too far.
She’d always known he favored Azalea, but to completely disregard Sydney’s feelings? Unconscionable.
What kind of brother acted like that?
“When Bastian returns, he’ll answer for this!” Ivy vowed. With one well–timed comment, Sydney had successfully redirected the family’s wrath toward their absent brother.
Meanwhile, Bastian was still puzzled over Cassius‘ abrupt departure, his thoughts remained consumed by
Azalea.
Walking home, his spirits soared. Surely this time Azalea would recognize his genuine efforts to change!
With her establishing a new club, she’d need guidance–what perfect opportunities to prove himself!
His smile widened. If he demonstrated his sincerity, surely she’d return to them.
Last time… last time she simply hadn’t believed in him yet.
Back at the Lark residence, Sydjey checked the time. Perfect. With reddened eyes and a face full of carefully crafted sorrow, she forced a small, brave smile. “It’s alright. I’m just a little hurt. But Bastian must have his reasons. Please don’t let this cause discord in our family.”
Her performance elicited fresh waves of sympathy.
1/3
r
ས21%
Chapter 71 Bastian Comes Home
+20 Free Coins
Sydney was just too considerate. Even after her brothers had treated her so unfairly, she still defended
them.
Especially Matthias–his eyes softened, practically glowing with affection. Sydney had always been this way, gentle and considerate, always putting the family first.
Just like back then…
Among the Larks, Matthias was the smartest. With Cassius handling the company, he’d had the freedom to pursue what he loved–medicine. He genuinely enjoyed solving complex cases in the lab and developing
new treatments.
Their parents were always busy, and Cassius had been buried in his studies. In Matthias’s world, he was alone–until Sydney appeared.
Remembering those days, he couldn’t help the soft smile tugging at his lips. Sydney had been the only one who cared whether he was cold or hungry. As she got older, she became even more thoughtful.
A few years ago, she would even check if he was eating on time and she’d even brought specially–prepared medicinal meals to his lab, just to take care of his stomach after long hours.
That was when he made up his mind. Even if the whole family ended up loving the biological daughter they’d found–Azalea–he would still protect Sydney. He wouldn’t let her be wronged. Luckily, the rest of the family wasn’t blind. They knew who truly deserved their love.
But lately…
Matthias’s gaze turned cold. It looked like it was time for him to personally “visit” Azalea.
The front door creaked open. Sydney lifted her head–right on schedule, Bastian had returned.
He was still holding the doorknob, about to ask why Cassius had left, when the accusatory stares from around the table shattered the cheerful mood he’d carried with him.
What’s going on?
Bastian frowned. Remembering how Cassius had rushed out without a word, he asked, “Did something happen?”
“You still have the nerve to ask? Don’t you know what you’ve done?” Wesley slammed his hand on the table, rage flickering in his eyes.
Even Ivy, usually the most gentle and patient, sat with a rigid back, her eyes full of disappointment.
The rest of his brothers looked equally grim–as if he’d committed some unforgivable crime.
Bastian’s gaze trembled. He couldn’t hide his shock. And now he understood the look Cassius had given him earlier. This was the family tribunal Cassius had warned him about.
They were angry at him for helping Azalea. Even though all he had done was speak the truth and offer her the fairness she deserved.
All his joy from earlier was gone in an instant. But Bastian wasn’t Cassius. He wasn’t about to walk away. He wanted to explain.
2/3
O
<
18:03 Thu, 21 Aug TTT
Chapter 71 Bastian Comes Home
“Dad, Mom, Sydney… I think there’s a misunderstanding,” he said, trying to keep his voice calm.
i
|||
