Larissa's Game of Thrones (Larissa) novel Chapter 93

She rushed in front of Vivica, her eyes filling with tears as she looked up at Paxton. “Dad, if you’re going to hit someone, hit me. Leopold only did this because he wanted to stand up for me. It’s all my fault. I’m the one who forgot my place and tried to compete with Larissa.”

The sight of his precious sister so distressed snapped Leopold out of his stupor. He pushed his mother aside and stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Honora, facing Kiernan with newfound defiance.

“Grandpa, Honora had nothing to do with this. She didn’t know anything about my plan. It was all my idea. I did it because I couldn’t stand to see her suffer after Larissa came back. If you’re going to punish someone, punish me.”

Honora shook her head, her voice thick with emotion. “Leopold, you don’t have to take all the blame. You never would have asked Kitty to do this if it weren’t for me.”

“Honora, I said it has nothing to do with you!” he insisted, his own eyes red with emotion. He turned back to Kiernan. “I accept my punishment! Just please, don’t take it out on Honora!”

Kiernan snorted. “You’re a fool, still protecting this adopted girl even now.”

Leopold stood his ground. “I did it, Grandpa, so I’ll take responsibility. It wasn’t Honora.”

“Silence!” Kiernan roared, swinging his cane and striking Leopold across the shoulder.

Leopold didn’t flinch, taking the blow without a sound.

Vivica gasped in horror and started forward, but Paxton grabbed her arm, his voice a low growl. “Leave him. He deserves it.”

This wasn’t the time to go for the kill. Her main objective had already been achieved.

Kiernan’s frown softened. He glared at Leopold. “What are you waiting for? Apologize to Larissa!”

Leopold, swallowing his pride, bowed his head. “I’m sorry, my cousin.”

Larissa heard the venomous emphasis he put on the word, as if to make it clear he would never truly accept her.