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Chapter 156
The etiquette class was particularly exasperating, with endless instructions on how to sit, speak, and smile “like a royal.”
But I found my footing during the Business Studies session. Leading the PACK staff and running my own company had prepared me well.
The Business Studies Instructor started talking about managing money and resources. She explained things like making budgets and tracking expenses.
It reminded me of the nights I stayed up, trying to figure out how to keep my business running. While others wrote notes quickly, I felt a little more confident since I had done it before.
Then she asked, “What makes a good leader?” The room went quiet. I raised my hand and said, “Someone who doesn’t give up, even when things go wrong. A good leader learns from mistakes and keeps trying.”
Encouraged by the nods around me, I raised my hand again when she asked if anyone wanted to share their experience.
“I’ve always believed that building something meaningful takes more than resources,” I began, addressing the room.
“It takes vision and the willingness to persevere, even when things seem impossible. When started my business…”
Before I could continue, a sharp voice cut me off.
“Excuse me,” the speaker said, her tone filled with disdain. “But are we really supposed to believe you did all of this on your own?”
I turned to see Nova, the same noblewoman Carlos had reprimanded earlier. Her eyes gleamed with malice, her lips curled in a smug smile.
“Go on,” she said, tilting her head. “Surely it was your connections that made everything possible. Johnson’s Alpha, wasn’t the one who really helped you?” Or maybe His Royal Highness..?
The room fell silent. Every gaze was fixed on me, waiting to see how I would respond. I took a deep breath, forcing myself to stay calm.
“Yes, I’ve had support,” I said evenly. “But support doesn’t diminish the effort I put in. Connections may open doors, but it’s hard work that keeps them open.”
Nova’s smirk deepened. “How convenient for you to say. I suppose having powerful men in your corner makes everything easier.”
Her words were meant to wound, but I refused to give her the satisfaction.
“Hard work is what builds something lasting,” I said, meeting her gaze. “And that’s something no one can hand you, not even the most powerful man.”
Before Nova could retort, the instructor intervened. “That’s enough. Let’s focus on the lesson.”
“t
But Nova’s glare told me this wasn’t the end of it.
After hearing Nova’s words, I felt the room’s attention shift to me. Despite the instructor’s instructions to remain focused on the lesson, all looked at me.
There was a sting in Nova’s voice that made me believe that it was a deliberate attempt to provoke me.
But, what truly unsettled me was the realization that this wasn’t the first time she had targeted me. Her words weren’t just meant to undermine my business achievements; they were personal.
I replayed the events of the face–to–face party with Luna in my mind. Nova had been there, charming and friendly in the way she always was.
But during one of our conversations, she had slipped and blurted out that I was the one who orchestrated the entire debacle of Johnson’s wedding, the farce that everyone had
Giping Up My First Love Fur Secret Research Secund
ce at Happiness
been whispering about.
At the time, I had been so caught up in the chaos of the event that I hadn’t even realized how dangerous her careless words had been.
Now, everything clicked. Nova hadn’t just been a passive observer at the party, she had actively made sure the truth came out.
has
She had spread the rumor to the crowd, not caring about the consequences, and now she
was doing the same in front of the entire class.
It was as if she had been targeting me all along, waiting for the right moment to strike again.
Her smirk deepened as she watched me, clearly savoring the discomfort she had caused. I couldn’t let her get to me. Not now, not after everything I had worked for.
But as the class continued, I couldn’t stop thinking about Nova. The way she had subtly poisoned the atmosphere at the party, how she had so easily tried to tear me down.
She hadn’t just targeted my business, she had tried to ruin my reputation. And now, in front *of the entire class, she was continuing her attack.
stay
I knew I had to calm, but I also knew that this wasn’t over. Nova had revealed her true intentions, and now it was up to me to protect what I had worked so hard to build.
After a pause, she continued, “You want to act so perfect, Doris, but everyone here knows you’re not. In fact,” Nova said, her lips curling into a triumphant smile, “it was you who orchestrated Johnson’s entire wedding farce. Luna herself confirmed it at the face–to–face
party!”
“Going Up My First Love For Secret Researcle Second Chance at Happiness.
