Reading Juicy Gossip in Her Mind: Chapter 376 – Blinded by Her Talent

"No, you're lying! You don't have other women; you spend all your time and energy on me. I'm the closest to you, so you must like me. You're just afraid to admit it!"

Carlos had initially planned a gentle approach, but Penelope's self-absorption made him realize a harsher tone was necessary.

"Just because I don't have other women doesn't mean I like you, Penelope. Wake up. You're my student, and I'll have others in the future. You're not the first!"

"I don't believe you. I know you're worried about gossip. I'll drop out so we won't be teacher and student anymore." Penelope, repeatedly rejected, had become frantic. She believed her successful performance would move Carlos. Everyone said he treated her exceptionally well, unlike other teachers. How could his tender treatment not indicate affection?

But Carlos shattered her hopes, coldly stating, "If you drop out, we'll have nothing to do with each other."

Stunned by his unprecedented coldness, Penelope's composure crumbled, and she wept. Suddenly realizing, she declared, "I get it. You just want to use my talent to boost your achievement. Fine, Carlos, let's make a deal. If we're together, I'll keep singing for you, making you a renowned teacher. But if you reject me, I'll ruin my voice. I won't sing anymore!"

Carlos was shocked. He'd considered Penelope merely sharp-tongued—a trait he even found endearing, believing it protected her from bullying. Now, he saw deeper character flaws and the difficulty of communicating with her. He'd once pitied her family conflicts, but now…

He realized he'd been blinded by her talent. He needed to be more discerning in the future when choosing students. Deeply disappointed by her erratic behavior, despite his initial fondness, he knew he had to end things decisively.

"Singing means so little to you? It's your life—don't use it to threaten me," Carlos said coldly. "You performed well and should have plenty of offers. Find someone else to guide you. I don't need you to prove my teaching ability."

Penelope's face paled. She hadn't expected abandonment. Rushing forward, she hugged and forcefully kissed him.

Shocked, Carlos pushed her away. She stumbled backward, toward a makeup mirror. Reacting quickly, Carlos protected her head, falling on top of her.

Despite the situation, Penelope tried to kiss him again.

(Chapter 376 continues)

(Chapter 375 – Blinded by Her Talent)

At that moment, the door opened.

"Carlos, we've been waiting… Ah, are we interrupting?" Christopher's voice echoed. Rosalie and Isabella peered in curiously.

This interruption was due to Isabella's inner monologue expressing concern that Carlos was being taken advantage of, alarming Christopher and Rosalie. Christopher, believing he'd heard something unusual, investigated, leading to their dramatic entrance, likely earning Penelope's hatred.

Their arrival thwarted Penelope's attempt and gave Carlos the chance to push her away. Trembling with anger, he left, ignoring her calls. "There's no need to contact me again!"

(End of Chapter 375)

This cleaned-up version improves grammar, punctuation, and flow, making the narrative more engaging and easier to read. The chapter breaks are also clearly indicated.