When They Beg, I Rise!

"No thanks, I'm not planning on signing with any team."

Lemira was quite straightforward in her refusal.

She glanced at a silhouette on the wall, "By the way, was King also from Orvin University?"

"Did you go to the Orvin University Team base? Yes, he was a student there, but it's been ages since he graduated."

"Is he still in the industry?"

"Not as far as I know. With his family background, it's unlikely he'd stick around in a team."

Lemira gathered that this legend must come from a pretty privileged background. After hanging up the phone, she turned to see her team captain. "Lemira, you've got some real talent. I hope you'll considering going pro with us. You've got potential."

"Thanks."

"Are you joining the team as a hobby, or do you have other plans?"From NôvelDrama.Org.

"I want to make it to the national team!"

That was one of Lemira's dreams.

A flicker of disdain passed in the captain's eyes - dreaming of the national team? How naïve. It wasn't that easy to get into the national team.

But he didn't let it show, "That's a fine dream. You'll have to work hard then, and make sure to train with us often."

Lemira nodded obediently, "I understand."

"Lemira, do you want to go out tonight? I can show you around."

"I have plans tonight, so I'll pass."

"Don't get me wrong. It's a welcome party for the new members, and you just joined the reserve team. It wouldn't look good if you didn't show." That was when Lemira reluctantly agreed.

In the evening, Lemira went with the team to the venue of the dinner. But she was surprised to find out it was bar.

Jackson looked at her, "First time? Don't be scared, I've got your back."

"Look at our captain, playing the hero."

"Captain, you're spoiling Lemira. We're getting jealous here."

Jackson quickly waved his hands, "Don't tease, you'll scare this kid."

Lemira bristled a bit at being called a "kid". She stepped away from Jackson, creating some distance between them. The group headed to a private room upstairs.

Just as Thaddeus stepped out to

make a call, he spotted Lemira

yel

among a group of young men and

women, looking surprised, thinking he might see things.

He turned and went to the VIP room, where a few young men in suits were sitting around playing poker, their demeanor elegant.

He walked over to Orion and whispered, "I just saw Lemira."

Orion frowned, "What's she doing here?"

"I'm puzzled too. Looks like she's

with some classmates, laughing and having a good time. There's a guy

being pretty attentive

Orion's expression darkened instantly, "You sure?"

"Positive. Their room's on the second floor. But it's normal, right? She's in college, meeting new people, having admirers." Seeing Orion's mood worsen, Thaddeus didn't continue. But then Orion played fiercely, dominating the poker table. "Orion, what's got into you today?"

Thaddeus touched his nose, feeling

a bit guilty, he guessed the reason. Some guys, they said they were letting go but just couldn't seem to do it!

Downstairs in the private room.

BUMS

Lemira sat in a corner, not at all interested in mingling or networking. Susanna, bursting in with Evelina, waved her hand, "Tonight's on me!" "Cheers to Ms. Sinclair!"

Susanna turned to Lemira, "But not for her. I'm not covering her bill."