Chapter 18

Semion's encounter with his elder sister Valentina was like facing a monster. First, because he grew up being beaten by her without being able to retaliate. Second, because it was always a pain to listen to her scold him, and third, because she was just plain tough.

But now, in front of him, ever since Celeste arrived, Valentina seemed like a gentle lamb.

"What's wrong with you?" Semion couldn't help but ask the woman. "Don't tell me you're planning to court my wife?"

He expected her to yell at him, but Valentina remained calm, her attention focused on Celeste.

"I've never seen you before, what's your name?" her usually loud voice softened.

Semion's lips twisted in disbelief. "You're a pretentious monster!"

They paid no attention to him.

"I'm Celeste," Celeste replied shyly but sweetly.

"Celeste, what a beautiful name," he said. "I know Celeste means heavenly; it suits you well. Especially since you look like an angel."

Celeste's cheeks turned pink. "Th-Thank you, Val."

"What the heck