Sebastian’s heart leapt into his throat, and in the end, he couldn’t hold back—he rushed forward.
He knew, deep down, that Citrine would never say yes to Vester. But standing there, watching the person he loved being confessed to by someone else, all reason flew out the window.
At that very moment, Citrine was about to turn Vester down.
That was when Sebastian strode over.
Before Citrine could even react, he stepped between her and Vester, blocking her view.
Facing Citrine, Sebastian positioned himself squarely between her and Vester, shielding her. His eyes were lowered, his gaze gentle. “Citrine, it’s getting late. We should head out.”
Citrine glanced at her phone—he was right, it was late.
She was just about to say goodbye to Vester when a cold voice sounded behind her.
“Mr. Vesper, why are you in such a hurry? Are you afraid Ms. Carmichael will accept my proposal?”
Sebastian turned, and all pretense of politeness vanished from his expression. “And what makes you so sure she would?”
His tone was edged with mockery. “You may have broken with your father, but do you really think your father, your brother, and your little sister will just let it go? Can you guarantee they’ll never come after you?”
Vester said nothing.
Sebastian shrugged and gave a thin smile. “See? You can’t even sort out your own family. Yet you expect her to give up everyone she loves and move halfway across the world for you? Have you even thought about what you’re asking of her?”
Vester’s face darkened. He had no retort—he had to admit, Sebastian was right. He hadn’t considered any of that.
The two men stood locked in a silent standoff. The air between them turned icy.
At that moment, Citrine stepped out from behind Sebastian, her face earnest as she looked at Vester. “Mr. Vester, thank you for your feelings. But I don’t love you, and I could never give up my family and friends for you.”
“Thank you for all your help these past few weeks, but it’s late—we’ll be going now.”
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