As Arnold brooded in silence, Raines cut through the quiet once again, "You've always been a stand-up guy, fond of fair play and never one to skulk in the shadows. But your adversary doesn't play by the same rules, which is why he's got the upper hand."
Arnold's gaze grew darker, as if the chill of the night had seeped into his soul.
If only he had been more assertive back in Goldstone, Aurelia would have been his wife by now, with no room for Leopold to make a comeback.
But he respected Aurelia and didn't want to go against her wishes.
Leopold, no doubt, didn't share his scruples and had probably coerced Aurelia more times than he could count.
His love for Aurelia could never match his own.
He was the one who truly loved and respected her the most in the world.
Leopold only knew how to use force to make her submit, which was why Aurelia always said he was domineering with a temper.
"I gotta say, Raines, I'm surprised you've kept so up-to-date with Elysium's affairs, living abroad and all," Arnold mused.
Raines gave a wry smile, "Due to the Internet, I catch up in some high-society forums. Amongst us, Leopold might be the youngest. But as the legitimate heir, he's always been one step ahead. Whatever or whoever he sets his sights on, he wouldn't dream of yielding to his older brothers. Even if the person in question doesn't fancy him, he'd take what he wants by force. Our eldest and I tend to step aside and avoid conflict, but you, Arnold, you've got the guts to compete with him."
Arnold snorted with a hint of laughter. He was an adventurer, naturally fearless. There was no place on earth he wouldn't venture to and no person he wouldn't dare challenge.
He had been played by his mother. Otherwise, Leopold wouldn't stand a chance against him.
"I'm not afraid of heaven or hell, so why would I fear my brother?"
Raines patted him on the shoulder, "In this world, everything can be let go except for love. Losing the one you cherish is unbearable. You need to pull yourself together and stop torturing yourself."
Arnold took a swig of water, "I'm fine, Raines, really. No worries."
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