But even in death, I got nothing.
Now, the three of them were gathered around Laila’s bed, anxiously waiting for her to wake.
When her eyes finally fluttered open, Mom burst into tears of joy. “Sweetheart, you’re finally awake. I was so worried…”
“That’s my daughter–brave and kind,” Dad said, smiling proudly. “I’m so proud of you.”
Simon pulled out the lavish moonstone necklace and gently fastened it around Laila’s neck. “Your favorite moonstone’s been protecting you this whole time. I hope it keeps bringing you good luck.‘
side too…”
A faint blush crept onto her face. She glanced at him shyly and whispered, “Simon, you’ll always stay by my
Surprise flashed in Simon’s eyes. It seemed as if he hadn’t expected her to say that. “Laila, I’ve always seen you as a sister. When Zora agreed to donate her kidney, I promised her she’d always be my mate.”
Laila’s eyes reddened.
“But Simon, I love you,” she whimpered. “And I know you love me too. Why else would you treat me so well? I don’t want to be your sister. I want to be your mate!”
Mom was flabbergasted. Her gaze darted between Laila and Simon before she turned back to her and chided, “What are you on about? He’s your sister’s mate. How could you have feelings for him?”
But Dad seemed unfazed. “We can’t control their feelings, after all. If Simon and Laila like each other, then so be it.
“I’ll just give Zora a larger share of the inheritance so she won’t have to worry about anything for the rest of her life.
Mom looked torn, opening and closing her mouth before finally letting out a heavy sigh. “Forget it. You deal with whatever’s going on between you all on your own. I can’t do this anymore.”
Hovering above them, I listened to their conversation and laughed through my tears.
Of course, Laila would stop at nothing to steal anything or anyone I once cared about. Bit by bit, she took my spot in Simon’s heart, just to replace me right at this moment.
Now that I was gone, I bet her plan was finally falling into place.
