To Love a Shadow, To Be the Sun novel Chapter 63

"Sis, how did she end up drinking so much? I'll go make some hangover soup."

Her face was filled with concern, but Brian didn't even spare her a glance, let alone respond.

Lina could only follow them to the master bedroom, though she was smart enough to stop at the doorway.

Brian laid Elara gently on the bed. When he turned to close the door so he could help Elara change, he realized Lina was still standing there.

He walked over, and Lina bit her lip anxiously.

"Brian, Elara's mood keeps getting worse. I don't care if she hates me, but I just don't want her to keep misunderstanding you. Maybe I should just move out—for now, at least. Somewhere closer to the hospital would be better, so I can take care of Mom."

She was trying to sound considerate, but to her shock, Brian actually nodded.

"You're right. Living here isn't good for your health, and it's only making things harder for her."

Lina's eyes widened, as if she'd just been slapped.

"I've already started looking for a new place for you," Brian continued, his tone flat. "I've also arranged for a therapist. Lina, focus on getting better. That's all you need to worry about."

With that, Brian shut the door.

Lina stood frozen in the hallway, her heart stinging.

She replayed everything she'd done tonight. She'd been on the back foot the whole time, and Brian had been furious at Elara just hours ago—so why did his attitude change the moment Elara came home?

What she didn't know was that Brian's anger melted away the instant he saw Elara's location had been that same beach from the accident.

Inside the room, Brian turned to see Elara struggling upright, swaying as she made her way toward the bathroom.

She couldn't stand getting into bed after being outside—she always had to shower and change first.

Brian moved to help her, but she shook him off.

"You've already made me feel filthy enough. What, not satisfied yet? Still want to make me sick?"

His eyes frosted over, but after a few seconds, he managed to soften his expression.

"Send me the address, I'll come over soon."

It was a big day for her grandpa, and she couldn't relax until she'd seen him for herself.

But something about Rose's tone was odd—suddenly much warmer than usual.

Elara didn't dwell on it. As she headed downstairs, she ran into Lina.

Lina was curled up on the couch, looking as pitiful as ever. When she saw Elara, she scrambled to her feet.

"Elara, I'm so sorry about last night. I didn't mean to scare you. I just… I couldn't control myself. I know you're mad at me because of Mr. Sunderland, I—"

Elara had no patience for her little performance. She pointed to the security camera and said, "Watch my lips carefully. Don't come crying later when someone edits the footage to frame me for something I didn't say."

She straightened, turning to face the camera, but her words were meant for Lina, each syllable sharp as a knife.

"Drop the act. You've tried the ‘framing' routine enough times—maybe it's time to come up with some new tricks."