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“What I discovered was far more intense,” I began. “Niko and I are friends and have an undeniable connection with him. We often lose track of time while talking, becoming fully engrossed in our own little world.”

A mischievous glint sparkled in her eyes as she reclined. “That’s not the only thing you two do for hours.”

“Hush!” I urged with a conspiratorial wink. “We just can’t help it. It’s like we’re magnetically drawn to each other, our hands finding one another whenever possible.”

Cali finished the last bite of her ice cream and said, “I’m happy for you, I really am, Laya.”

“Thank you, Cali,” I replied. “Let’s head to that cozy bookstore we discussed last week.”

“Sure,” she said, rising to her feet with enthusiasm.

We tossed aside our ice cream wrappers and walked down the sunlit sidewalk, the murmur of the city intertwining with the cadence of our footsteps.

Our companions followed behind us in a protective formation, creating a silent barrier around us as we ventured forward together, enjoying the moment.

“You know, sis, there’s something I’ve wanted to discuss,” I said, daring to approach this sensitive subject now.

But Cali seemed unusually open today, and I wanted to ensure she understood my thoughts.

“Remember how we all agreed on our plan together when it was first laid out? I want you to know—nobody expects anything from you now. You don’t have to marry into one of the other syndicates if you don’t want to. That part of our plan is off the table.”

Cali’s thoughtful nod gave me the impression that the tension in the air was easing.

“Thank you for saying that.” The relief on her face made me want to sigh.

I continued, wanting her to understand what lay deep in my heart. “You’ve endured so much, sweetheart. We would never force you into an unhappy marriage merely to bolster our power. All we’ve ever wanted is for you to marry for love, if that’s your choice. It’s your life, after all. You may be a Vitalis, but you have the freedom to decide what your future looks like.”

“You and Avra have shown me love and patience,” she expressed. “Truly, I cannot imagine how I would have managed without either of you.”

I reached out and gave her hand a reassuring squeeze.

“We love you, Cali, endlessly,” I insisted, my resolve firm and unwavering.

Then, with a steady, reflective air, she added, “I appreciate you clarifying any expectations, Laya. I feel better now—slowlyhealing, yet always aware that my past is a part of me. I’m coming to terms with it, even if it pains me. I know this will remain part of my life forever, and I could never be with someone who doesn’t understand why it is so significant.”

Her confession hit me like a tidal wave, and tears pricked my eyes. Her raw honesty tore at my heart, and I silently wished for the power to manipulate time. If only I could shield her from this relentless anguish, I’d endure any hardship for her sake.

After a lingering silence, she took a deep breath and said, “I’ve given this a lot of thought, you know? About our old plan. I agreed to it once, but now I see that carrying it out would mean surrendering to those who caused us so much grief. I refuse to allow them to dictate our future and our family’s destiny. They haven’t broken or defeated me.”

I admired her steadfast resolve and tenacity. My little sister was a warrior like no other.

“I admire your strength, Cali,” I said, filled with pride and a touch of awe.

“I won’t give them another ounce of my soul,” she declared, embodying a storm of determination.

I returned her smile with one of pure encouragement.

“Of course,” I murmured, silently hoping she could feel the full weight of my supportive approval.

My heart brimmed with the simple truth that if anyone deserved genuine love and happiness, it was my little sister.

With that, she nodded firmly.

“So,” she declared, “I plan to marry, but only on my terms. I want a man who truly comprehends my journey and is willing to navigate the tough times with me.” She continued, “I’m not looking for a partner who only appears impressive on paper. Laya, you and Avra must understand that I will meet each option first. If there’s chemistry, then we’ll proceed to the next step. I want to move at a pace that ensures I’m completely certain.”

I couldn’t help but grin widely. “That sounds like a perfect plan to me.”

With that, we stepped into the inviting atmosphere of the bookstore. As we wandered among the creaking shelves and the murmurs of pages turning, I felt hope soar in my heart. Cali was healing, truly setting her life on her own course. Hearing her assert her desires, establish her boundaries, and build a life she genuinely wanted was a victory.