Chapter 41

Tension filled the Rosewood residence. Emma, sobbing uncontrollably, clung to Bella. Since learning of Elysia's grades that morning, her hopes had crumbled. She'd never imagined Elysia could score so high. Growing up, Emma, driven by her adoption, had always strived to prove herself. Yet, despite her efforts, she only placed in the top fifty, while Elysia achieved first place. The unfairness stung. What right did this "country bumpkin," as Emma thought, have to claim the top spot, especially after, in Emma's view, pulling Justin from his position? It was infuriating.

Elysia, returning home and witnessing the scene, thought, Emma's tears are worthless! All this crying—it's unbearable! She ignored them, heading upstairs.

But Bella called out, "Where do you think you're going? I need to talk to you!"

Reluctantly, Elysia returned, raising an eyebrow. "What's up?"

"What kind of attitude is that?" Bella asked, frustration evident in her voice.

Elysia didn't answer. She sauntered to the sofa and propped her legs up.

Bella was about to explode when Emma, still sniffling, tugged her arm. "Let it go, Mom. My sister's just like that. Don't take it personally."

Bella softened, smiling gently. "Emma, you're so understanding."

Elysia inwardly rolled her eyes. Such melodrama!

Emma's face brightened. "I'm the big sister; it's only natural."

Bella nodded approvingly, her affection for Emma evident. My sweet girl, she thought, unlike Elysia, who's a constant source of frustration!

Her gentleness vanished as she turned to Elysia. "I want to know how you ended up at the top of the rankings."

Elysia realized Emma was at it again. With an amused smirk, she looked at them. "So what if I got first place? Are you going to throw me a party?"

Bella pressed, "How did you manage it?"

Elysia frowned. "What's so hard about getting top marks?" She gave Emma a pointed, mocking glance.

Emma bit her lip, stung by the sarcasm—a direct jab at her inability to compete. Her anger flared. Since Elysia's return, she felt constantly overshadowed. How much longer would she endure this? Perhaps only when Elysia left would she reclaim her status as the Rosewood family's respected young lady. She would make it happen.

The tension hung heavy until Scott entered. Bella burst into tears. "Scott, you're finally back! I can't handle this daughter anymore!"

Scott, thoroughly annoyed, pinched the bridge of his nose. "What's going on?"

"She's cheating! It's just a small test, but if she'll go to such lengths now" Bella's voice trailed off.

Elysia realized Emma's manipulative tactics. It was disturbingly familiar.

Scott, frowning deeply, turned to Elysia. "Is your mother telling the truth?"

Elysia chuckled. "If cheating gets you top marks, then sure, it's worth bragging about! But I don't know what cheating she's talking about."

"Let's hear what she has to say," Scott said, frustrated. He just wanted to relax after a long day, not deal with family drama. "Emma said everyone at school is saying Elysia cheated. There's even a forum post…" Bella added.

Elysia laughed. "A forum post? Hilarious! Did Emma miss Levi's clarification? She should know exactly who posted that!"

Emma froze. "How… how could I possibly know?"

"Oh, you know. Some people think they're being clever with fake accounts, but there's always a way to trace them!" Elysia retorted.

Emma was paralyzed. Elysia was accusing her! How did she find out?

Elysia smirked inwardly. Of course, it was her. She needs to work on her poker face. Elysia hadn't even investigated; Emma exposed herself.

Scott pieced together what happened. He wasn't concerned about cheating; he was surprised Elysia scored first. Levi hadn't been exaggerating. He hadn't expected such talent from a less privileged background. Emma, in comparison, seemed lacking.

Elysia stretched and stood. "If you don't believe me, call Levi. I'm going to my room."

"Wait," Scott said.

Elysia turned. "What?"

"Your birthday's in a few days. We're throwing a party, and we'll reveal your identity then. Any requests?"

"None. Do what you think is best."

Elysia left, but Emma's heart sank. If Elysia's identity became public, everyone would know she was adopted. She had to prevent Elysia's acceptance into the Rosewood family.

At the villa near Royal Bay, Alice excitedly tugged Zane's hand. "Uncle Zane, Elysia ranked first! She's my idol!"

"Impressive. You should learn from her," Zane replied.

"I know! I was going to call her!" Alice beamed.

"You have her number?" Zane asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Yes, she gave it to me," Alice said, pausing. Something felt off. "You don't have it, do you?"

"Give me her number, and I'll give you this much," Zane said, holding up five fingers.

"Five thousand?" Alice asked, eyes wide.

"Fifty thousand," Zane corrected.

"Wow! But I won't sell her out, no matter how much you offer," Alice said, protecting her phone.

Zane's tone turned casual. "If you don't, your allowance is canceled."

Alice internally lamented. After glancing at her phone, she thought, Sorry, Elysia, but Uncle Zane can be such a cheapskate!

Reluctantly, she offered her phone. As Zane reached for it, she pulled it back. "Fifty thousand! Not a cent less!"