147As he pocketed his phone, Darwin couldn't help but roll his eyes at the absurdity of their situation. He was about to embark on a charade that seemed more suited to a sitcom than real life. He shook his head, a chuckle escaping him despite the gravity of their predicament. The things we do for f
148Lana’s entire face reddened, her veins visibly straining against her skin. Jabbing a finger in Edgar’s direction she retorted,“Edgar! That's uncalled for and so improper! Show some respect!”As though she was insignificant, Edgar ignored her once more as he continued, this time clapping his han
149While Edgar was fuming, he was unaware of the crowd that had gathered and were watching the exchange with interest.A few people had begun to exchange glances between themselves, perusing and assessing Darien with their eyes,“Who's this fellow that dares to exchange words with a Marivaldi?! Doe
150A collective gasp rippled through the crowd, followed by a murmur of surprise and confusion. Darwin? The same man Edgar had just publicly scorned? The contrast between the image Edgar had painted and Fiona's glowing introduction couldn't have been starker."Darwin? That Darwin?" a woman whispere
151As Darwin stood by Fiona, speaking with a humility that belied his achievements, the crowd's reaction shifted from surprise to respect, their applause growing louder and more genuine with each passing moment.Edgar, unable to contain his boiling fury, hissed to a nearby confidant, "This is all a
152 Darwin stood firm, facing Edgar, who was visibly shaking with anger."Why, Edgar?" Darwin's voice cut through the silence. "Why do you feel the need to ruin this moment?"Edgar's fists clenched at his sides, his teeth gritted. "Because you don't deserve any of this! You're a fraud!"A ripple of
153Two days later, on Monday, Darwin was standing in front of the mirror in his room, adjusting his light blue striped shirt collar. It was the day he was meeting Lana's parents and he was feeling nervous. He had chosen to wear a simple yet well-tailored light blue shirt along with khaki pants and
154Darwin clenched his fists, fighting the urge to respond in kind. He could feel the sweat beading on his forehead.Lana's parents watched the exchange with keen interest, their earlier coldness momentarily forgotten in the face of this new drama. Mrs. Roberts, in particular, seemed almost pleased