Tristan's jaw tightened at Lola's statement. But he surprisingly held back his rage as Lola continued speaking.
"On a more serious note, I need you to understand this clearly. We are family and family sticks together. You are my brother even though we are not from the same parents. It saddens my heart to watch you distance yourself away from me. Irrespective of the King's decision, we should never hate one another. Instead, we should be more focused on how to move this kingdom forward. I cannot do it alone. We need each other to succeed." Lola paused to catch her breath while studying Tristan's expressions.
Although Tristan's gaze was lowered, Lola could tell he was still unhappy from his stiffened body. She placed her right hand tenderly on his arms like a big sister soothing an aggrieved younger brother.
Tristan almost flinched at her touch. It was as though her soft palm were hot coal on his skin.
