Seeing that Skylar was silent in thought, Simona continued, "He came from a poor family in a rural area and worked his way up entirely through his own efforts. Although his family background isn't great, I believe that one's family is something they can't choose."
"Hmm, have you learned about his parents and family?" Skylar asked.
Simona shook her head. "I haven't really asked. I'm afraid it might make him feel inferior. He did mention that he's the only one in his village who managed to get into university, and his parents are proud of him."
Although Simona's parents passed away early, she had never faced financial hardship because her brother always took care of her.
She had looked up information about life in remote rural areas online and realized it was a lifestyle she couldn't imagine. This made her admire Stephen even more for making it this far.
Skylar nodded and said, "I think you should have a proper talk with your brother. He is the person who cares for you the most in this world. It takes time to truly understand a partner's intentions, but your brother is different.
"While a person's background isn't the most important thing, knowing more about it is essential. You've always been smart, and I trust you'll think calmly about how to learn more about him."
Simona's expression froze for a moment. She realized that, for various reasons, she had never proactively learned about Stephen's family situation.
"Do you want to hear about my experience with my ex-boyfriend?" Skylar asked gently.
Simona nodded blankly, her mind in a bit of a haze. "Yes! I want to hear it."
Skylar then shared the story of her and Christopher, from their innocent beginnings in their youth to his eventual betrayal.
People changed. Someone you think you knew well might not be who they truly were. People might think that sincerity worked both ways, but in the end, it depended on the person.
Simona's eyes turned red. "Skylar, you must have been so hurt and heartbroken back then!"
Skylar smiled. "Sadness was inevitable, but thankfully, there are always opportunities to start over. However, life doesn't offer many chances to make mistakes.
"Simona, I'm telling you this so you understand that your brother has never been your adversary. He's the one closest to you. Even when the whole world abandons you, he never will."
"Yes! Skylar, I understand now. I've been so disoriented lately, seeing him as an enemy, and never truly got to know Stephen. I know what I need to do next," Simona said, her eyes regaining their light and showing newfound determination.
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