17:58 Sat, Dec 21

Chapter 60

The invigilator entered the room, distributing exam papers. Alison, without delay, buried her head in the questions.

After only two questions, Alison couldn't resist glancing at Aurora, seated diagonally in front of her. She saw Aurora effortlessly answering the questions. Alison sneered, thinking, She's just pretending. It's only a language test; she could just copy. But she wouldn't be able to fake the math test.

However, during the math exam, Alison was shocked to see Aurora finish within an hour, submitting her paper earlier than the language exam. Alison clenched her fists, forcing herself to focus. This particular math test, designed to push students' limits, proved challenging. When it was time to submit, Alison left the last question blank. Aurora had already left for Crawford Manor.

Passing Maura's room, Aurora heard a thud, followed by groans and bangs—like someone hitting their head against the door. Aurora hesitated, then quietly continued on her way, thinking, Maura's vain; she wouldn't want anyone to see her like this.

Returning to her room before sunset, Aurora, having finished the exam early, prepared her medicine.

The next morning, Aurora found Maura at the dining table with Jaxon and Stacy. Maura, remembering her mother's advice, forced a smile despite her inner turmoil. She engaged in polite conversation, asking Aurora about her exams. Aurora replied casually, "Pretty good." Stacy, rolling her eyes, thought, That bumpkin thinks she can keep up? Who does she think she is?

After breakfast, Aurora headed to Mereida High School. She reflected on her improved transportation, sighing with satisfaction.

Back at school, the exams continued. The invigilator sternly warned a girl against leaving early. He observed Aurora sleeping at her desk, disapproving of her apparent lack of focus. He resolved to ensure she stayed until the end.

Alison, noticing Aurora asleep, thought, What's she playing at? Her paper must be a mess.

The invigilator, bored, picked up Aurora's answer sheet. To his astonishment, every answer was correct—neatly drawn and brilliantly explained. He checked the name: Aurora, from Class F. He recalled Frank's lament about a top student ending up in Class F. Could this be the student Mr. Gill had mentioned?

Alison felt a surge of satisfaction, assuming Aurora had been caught cheating.

The Class A versus Class F bet results garnered everyone's attention. A school group chat poll showed Class A with over a thousand votes, while Class F received only thirty-one—a number quickly dismissed as self-voting. The chat buzzed with mockery.

Erik, angered by the ridicule, slammed his phone on the desk. He raged, "These people can't stand to see others do well."