Chapter 122
Leroy, an authoritative figure in domestic education, commanded respect. His anger held a certain dignified power. Nearby, students whispered. The rock climbing coach, feeling unjustly accused, protested, “It wasn’t me! When Emma was in danger, I even considered rescuing her personally. Why would I risk my life otherwise?”
Levi coldly retorted, “How do we know you aren’t using this to clear your name?”
Emma, who had remained silent, spoke decisively, “It truly wasn't Mr. Neal.” Despite the chaos and peril, she recalled Lee Neal's immediate attempt to save her, only thwarted by Bob's quicker response. “I believe Mr. Neal is innocent,” she asserted. “Something is amiss with the rock climbing equipment.” She then addressed the other two instructors: “While they’ve confessed, their guilt isn’t definitively established!”
Liam, agreeing with Emma, remained wary. Leroy declared, “Then, both of you are fired!”
The summer camp instructors, dismayed, protested their dismissal. Leroy, resolute, instructed Mr. Carter to report the incident to the police, adding, “I’ll take full responsibility for this year’s camp.”
After leaving the canteen, students returned to their dormitories. Only Lane remained in Emma’s room, preparing for the next day’s training, while Emma strolled with Liam. Approaching her dormitory, Liam embraced her tightly. He'd nearly lost her. Although the police were involved and the instructors expelled, the mastermind remained at large, fueling Liam's concern about Emma continuing training.
Tiptoeing, Emma gently touched his face. “Don’t worry. Let me stay a few more days to graduate early. Mr. Quinn is monitoring the situation closely, and I'll be vigilant. They failed this time, and won't act rashly again.”
While Emma was right, Liam's worry was palpable; his rushed visit proved that. He leaned against a tree, holding her close. She held her breath as he kissed her. His voice, low and tender, whispered, “I miss you.”
Two days apart had been too long. He longed to hold her forever. As his passion intensified, Emma gently pressed a finger to his lips. “Stop. Someone might see us.”
“So what?” Liam thought jealously of a daytime photo of Emma with Bob. His dinnertime visit to the canteen was a blatant show of his relationship with Emma.
Emma smiled, “It’s pointless anyway. I’m on my period.”
Liam’s momentary pause revealed his understanding. He then tapped her nose playfully. “Your period is as mischievous as you are.”
“Go back,” Emma urged, though reluctant to part. The prospect of early graduation meant more time together. Tiptoeing, she kissed his chin. He released her only after a contented smile.
Days later, news arrived that Ida’s injuries were healing miraculously thanks to Emma’s ointment, even surprising the doctor. With proper care, scarring would be minimal. The summer camp reserved Ida’s spot. Determined, Ida planned her return. Abby’s investigation concluded; the police confirmed her black market purchase of poisonous insects, leading to an impending lawsuit from Ida’s parents.
Outside the camp, Liam and Josiah searched for the culprit behind the rock climbing sabotage. Meanwhile, training continued smoothly.
In the dormitory, Ida curiously asked Emma about her upcoming competition drawing. Lane scolded her, fearing a leak could lead to plagiarism. He was also surprised by Ida’s drawing skills, remarking on Emma’s diverse abilities.
Tomorrow’s competition included horse racing and art. Everyone anticipated Emma’s horse race entry, but she chose drawing. “The rock climbing culprit is still at large,” she explained. “Horse racing is too dangerous. My boyfriend will worry.” Lane and Ida envied her boyfriend. Ida, innocently, added, “Are you good at art? If you skip horse racing, Bob will win. You must win the art competition to maintain your lead.”
Emma smiled, glancing at her canvas. “We’ll see tomorrow.”
The next day, in the art classroom, Marsh Hanson, Leroy’s appointed judge, a righteous man in his thirties, addressed the competitors. “Virtue, intelligence, sportsmanship, and art are our assessment criteria. Art is vital. You have four hours. No extra time, regardless of progress.”
All participants were skilled. Emma, seated in the front row, observed seriously, her art choice surprising many. Whispers arose. One student remarked, “Emma’s here!” Another sneered, “She’s always been athletic. She probably chickened out after the rock climbing incident!” The first girl questioned, “Are athletes good at drawing?” The second responded, “No way. She’s making a mistake. We’ve trained for over a decade; we’ll beat her.”
Their hushed conversation, however, was overheard by both Emma and Marsh, who frowned. “You two! Leave if you don't want to paint!”