Chapter 11
Claire had intended to leave right away, but no matter what she said, Mr. Gray insisted she stay for dinner before going.
Seeing Mr. Gray’s expectant expression and his graying temples, she couldn’t find it in
herself to refuse.
Mr. Gray had always treated her like his own child, even better than he treated Zane.
This kindness, Claire knew she could never repay.
She sat on the sofa in the living room, staring at the colorful wreaths everywhere, which seemed to stab her eyes painfully.
With no alternative, she could only go to the garden outside to clear her mind.
Every part of the scenery here was exactly the same as before.
Even the peach tree in the corner was the one she and Zane had planted together.
Zane had once said that when the peach tree bore fruit, he would personally pick the biggest, sweetest one for her.
Now the peaches on the tree had all ripened and fallen to the ground, becoming rotten and broken, just like their relationship.
The rotting peaches could turn into nutrients to nourish the soil, while their broken feelings had scattered with the wind, never to exist again.
Lost in thought, Claire didn’t notice Zane approaching her.
Following her gaze, Zané also saw the peach tree.
After a long silence, Zane spoke first:
“Claire, you seem very unhappy since your sudden return. What’s wrong with you?”
Zane’s question made Claire feel ridiculous.
How could he act as if nothing had happened and ask her what was wrong?
He knew very well, didn’t he?
Claire turned to look at Zane, her face full of mockery:
“Brother, have you forgotten your promises to me?”
Hearing this, Zane also turned to face Claire.
Seemingly sensing the indifference in Claire’s eyes, Zane felt an inexplicable anger rising within him.
His voice suddenly became cold: “That was just childish nonsense. I can’t believe you took it seriously!”
“Claire, in others‘ eyes, we’re just siblings. A relationship between us would be… inappropriate.”
Claire looked away, her voice very low: “Oh? So I’m ‘inappropriate‘…but Emma is perfect? Why did you hide it from me? Did you find it fun to fool me?”
Zane also looked away. “Emma is gentle, kind, considerate, and understanding. She really is an excellent choice for a wife and mother.”
“Besides, she’s your best friend. You shouldn’t hurt her just because I rejected you.”
“Claire, since you know everything now, let me tell you officially: I don’t like you. Stop obsessing over me.”
“From now on, I’m just your brother, and you’re just my sister. As long as you don’t give Emma a hard time, I’ll continue to spoil you.”
100 D
