"Lenny, why don't you stay tonight?" Lina gently held Lena's hand and suggested, "Tomorrow, I'll introduce you to my parents in Jangasas. They are wonderful people. My younger brother is studying at the University of Centrolis, and he's quite a handsome young man."
Lina added, "Lenny, let's head upstairs first. You can choose which room you like." She was talkative in her happy state.
Lena followed behind, not fully absorbing her words.
As they ascended the stairs, Lena stole a glance at Nicholas and offered a soft smile. She couldn't help but envy her sister's family. Lina had loving biological parents, caring adoptive parents who raised her for 20 years, and a fiance who cherished her dearly.
Such blessings were rare, and Lena appreciated them deeply.
Despite this, Lena felt no trace of jealousy.
On the contrary, she was determined to protect this happiness at all costs. Having endured many hardships herself, she cherished all the beauty life had to offer. She couldn't bear to see anyone destroy it, and she certainly didn't want to be the cause of its ruin.
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As the quiet night hours passed, sleep eluded Lena. This was her first time staying over at the Thompsons' house. Sleep seemed impossible to attain with her father just a few rooms away.
In the midst of this restlessness, she took out Krystal's diary and penned her thoughts, expressing her feelings for her mother.
"Mom, I met my father today. I wanted to call him 'dad', but I held back. Still, I feel content just having had the chance to meet him up close.
Lina's getting married, and her fiance is very caring. I'm truly happy for her! But I can't help worrying about the future. I remember reading in your diary that men can be unreliable. If her husband ever mistreats her, I'll stand up for her and protect her from any trouble!
By the way, mom, there's a sniper by her husband's side. His gun is much more powerful than your little pistol... What will I do if I can't handle both of them when it comes to protecting her?
But enough of that. Let's not dwell on imaginary scenarios. I trust that Zuko is reliable and Lina will be happy.
As long as she's happy, my father and Aunt Linda will be happy, too.
So, I will be happy too, right?
Alright, I should go to bed early. Lina will try on wedding dresses tomorrow, and I must accompany her!"
After closing the diary, Lena sat at the spacious desk facing the window. As she looked up, she admired the moon shining brightly. She took a deep breath and savored the fragrant scent of dew and earth in the late-night air, feeling peaceful and content.
The following morning, for the first time in her life, Lena overslept and realized it was already 10:00 a.m.
Lena hurriedly got out of bed and went downstairs, where the maid informed her that Lina was trying on the final two outfits with the designer's assistance.
Lena rushed to the dressing room without having breakfast. The room was bustling with people, including the styling team, Nicholas, and Linda, all seated on the couch.
Lina's measurements had already been taken, and now it was time to work on the bridesmaid's styling. When Lina spotted Lena, she happily beckoned her over.
Lina smiled and linked arms with Lena, understanding her social anxiety and trying to ease her unease.
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