Valerie was taken aback by the unexpected visit from her brother. A sense of defensiveness washed over her as she recalled the last time Marcus had been in her apartment, stirring up trouble that had left her relationship with Lucian strained.
They still talked formally at the office as if there was a tall wall between them. It was very frustrating because they used to be close before this.
"I will not give you money," Valerie asserted firmly, bracing herself for what came next.
However, Marcus quickly rebutted, "No, I didn't come for money."
He didn't ask to come inside the apartment; he stood there in Valerie's doorway as she looked at him with wariness.
"I am sorry." With that, Marcus handed Valerie a small bag he had brought with him. "For you, open it."
Valerie was still cautious, but she took the bag and checked the thing inside. To her surprise, inside the bag was a delicate glass.
"I know this can't replace your glass."
