When Lu Yubai voiced that apology, Lu Xiaoxiao fell somewhat quiet too.
Although the incident involving the trip to school had naturally eased the tension between them, the siblings had never actually talked openly about their past conflicts.
"Wow, that apology sure took its time." With one hand on her chin, Lu Xiaoxiao stared at the whorl on top of Lu Yubai's head for a while, murmuring to herself, "Hearing you put it that way, I guess I can understand your motives a little."
Hmm... if the Lu Xiaoxiao from back then could hear this, maybe it would bring her a little comfort?
After hearing that thought, Lu Yubai raised his head and cautiously studied Lu Xiaoxiao's expression before asking tentatively, "Then... Sis, do you forgive me now?"
Lu Xiaoxiao didn't answer him right away. Instead, she suddenly raised her hand without warning.
Lu Yubai flinched in fright, thinking she was about to hit him. Since he was in the wrong, he didn't dare dodge, so he squeezed his eyes shut in a panic.
But after several seconds, the pain he'd imagined never came. Instead, a warm palm settled on top of his head.
A little stunned, Lu Yubai slowly opened his eyes and saw a familiar smile on his sister's face, close enough to touch.
"I'm not going to say I forgive you. The damage is already done, after all. Even the person I am now has no right to forgive you on behalf of who I used to be." Lu Xiaoxiao casually ruffled the boy's hair a couple of times, only withdrawing her hand in satisfaction once it was even messier than the bird's nest he'd started with. "But recognizing your mistakes and changing is better than staying awful forever. Let's make today a fresh start and turn