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Evelyn got it now. Simon was a teenager, caught in the storm of adolescence, when emotions ran wild and comparisons cut deep.
Life with Barbara had already been unfair, and now with Ryan flaunting his wealth at school every day, Simon’s pride naturally took a hit.
She placed a firm hand on his shoulder. “Simon, there’s a saying–let the storm rage, the mountain will remain standing tall. We don’t need to care what others say. What matters is that you focus on yourself.
“If you really can’t swallow this anger, then you need to study harder. One day, you’ll surpass him, and more than that, repay Mom and Dad. That’s what you should be doing. I doubt you’re any less than Ryan.
“I’m sure, one day, you’ll outshine him, and maybe even every single member of the Gulliver family.
“Our family has always been looked down on, which only means we need to prove ourselves more. One day, we’ll slap them in the face and make them kneel before us.
“Think about yesterday–when Mad Dog and Ethan crawled at your feet begging. Didn’t that feel good? That’s why you need to grow stronger. If you give up and stay useless, they’ll just look down on you more and keep you under their heel.”
“I get it now, Evie!” Her words lit a fire inside Simon; his eyes cleared as if a fog had lifted. “I’ll work hard. I’ll get into college. I won’t let Mom and Dad down. I’ll show them all what I can do!”
Evelyn nodded with satisfaction. “As for your studies, I’ll tutor you myself and help you catch up. You still have more than a year before your SATS. There’s still time. We can do this.”
Filled with determination, Simon immediately pulled out his books and got to work.
That morning, Penny’s heart was still heavy. Evelyn coaxed her outside, where they saw Stellan resting in a chair, gazing at the scenery, while Simon sat nearby, completely absorbed in his schoolwork.
“See, Mom? Simon’s working hard now. He knows he was wrong. He promised me he’ll get into college. With me tutoring him, if he still fails, I’ll break his legs myself.” Evelyn laughed softly.
Penny watched her son’s earnest effort, her heart finally casing. “Thank you, Evie. Without you, I really don’t know what this family would do.”
Later, Evelyn sat with Simon, guiding him through his studies. No matter what kind of problem he threw her way, she solved it with case.
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“Evie, you’re incredible. It feels like there’s nothing you don’t know!” Simon exclaimed, admiration clear in his eyes.
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“When your sister isn’t around, you can ask me too. With both of us tutoring you, there’s no way you’ll fail,” Stellan added with a smile.
“Stellan, where did you graduate from?” Simon asked casually.
“The Institute of Finance and Management in Falencia. I earned my doctorate there.”
Simon’s jaw dropped. “Wow, Stellan, that’s amazing! That school ranks among the top three in the world!” He had always thought of Stellan as nothing more than a disabled man. To find out he held such an impressive degree shocked him completely.
“That’s right,” Stellan chuckled. “With a doctoral graduate like me tutoring you, it’ll be hard for you not to succeed.”
Simon felt a sudden rush of gratitude. He had a capable sister and now a brilliant brother–in- law. “From now on, I’ll do everything you both say.” His confidence soared.
The entire day, Simon barely let go of his books. When Cyrus dropped by, he was floored.
“Want to go out and play?” Cyrus asked.
“Nope. I’m serious now. Don’t call me for fooling around anymore,” Simon shot back without hesitation.
Cyrus quirked a brow. “That’s not like you. When did you get so studious?”
Before Simon could answer, Evelyn smiled at him. “If you want to go out, then go. Studying needs balance. Don’t turn into a bookworm. Relax a little, but make sure you’re back tonight.”
“Thanks, Evie, you’re the best. But Mom…” Simon gave her a pleading look.
“Don’t worry. I’ll handle her.”
“You really are the best sister in the world!” Simon said, touched, before running out the door with Cyrus.
Evelyn shook her head with a smile. Now that’s more like a teenager.
Watching Simon’s retreating figure, Stellan couldn’t help but feel a pang of envy.
“Don’t worry, Once you’re better, you’ll be able to go out and have fun too,” Evelyn reassured him.
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Chapter 29 A Spark of Resolve
“Really? Then you’ll come with me?”
“Me?”
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“Mm. With you there, I’d be happy.” His gaze locked on hers, steady and sincere.
Evelyn suddenly noticed how much healthier he looked lately, no longer the frail, bony man from before.
His features were strikingly handsome–fine brows, eyes that turned captivating when half- lidded, a straight nose, and thin lips. His looks were so refined it seemed as if crafted by the hand of God.
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