"Have you forgotten about it? Your brother's death anniversary is in a few days. You've always gone back to Pyralis yourself. Now that I'm around, I thought I'd invite you to come along with me.
"At least you won't feel too awful when you're on the flight back to Pyralis."
Yasmine pursed her lips as a hint of melancholy flashed in her eyes. "I would've forgotten about it if you didn't bring it up. My brother's death anniversary is upon us again."
Ivor looked at Yasmine's ashen face and felt a little bad as well.
'Her brother wouldn't have died if he wasn't trying to protect me. Yasmine also wouldn't have had to be alone at Yale for such a long time.'
"I'm sorry, Yasmine. I—"
To Ivor's surprise, Yasmine cut him off before he could finish his sentence.
"Then, I guess I can go back to Pyralis with you. I know you've always felt lousy over that incident, boss. But I've never blamed you for it. So, don't overthink it."
Then, Yasmine flashed him a relieved smile.
"It wasn't your fault, boss. However, that doesn't stop you from looking after me on my brother's behalf for such a long time.
"You made it possible for me to find my place in Yale, and gain the required skills to establish a life here. You're the reason I am where I am today.
"I would've ended up in some nasty place if it wasn't for you. Not only do I not blame you, but I'm very thankful.
"So, don't treat yourself too harshly. If you're sad, I'm sad."
Ivor was aware that Yasmine had never blamed him for what happened to her brother. But he was still shocked when he heard her say it.
He stared at her with unblinking eyes. For a moment there, he didn't know what he should say.
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