Chapter 93: Group Photo

Despite the incident with Vanessa, the defense proceeded smoothly. The classmates buzzed with excitement as graduation approached, filled with hopes and dreams for the future. Vanessa, however, seemed to harbor different feelings. Following the defense, it was time for the group photo.

School leaders and invited guests occupied the front row, with the students lined up behind them. Unfortunately, Maggie found herself directly behind Nathael. Her position on the platform steps made her slightly taller than him. Maggie's gaze involuntarily drifted to him, making her inexplicably nervous. This was the closest she'd been to him in weeks.

"Everyone ready? That student there, move a little to the right… yes, very good," the photographer directed. Maggie forced herself to look away.

"Three, two… one!"

After several shots, the photographer checked the camera, appearing satisfied. "Don't be so stiff," he said. "Relax, be more casual." The boys loosened up considerably, while most of the girls remained shy. Many struck humorous poses, appearing lively and carefree. In that moment, Maggie inexplicably made a peace sign above Nathael's head. Nathael's eyes subtly darkened, though he didn't turn around, likely noticing her action. Maggie stuck out her tongue and stopped.

After a few more photos, the session concluded. To facilitate networking, the school arranged a complimentary photo session—a rare opportunity, given the attendance of renowned domestic designers and entrepreneurs. Maggie subconsciously glanced at Nathael, assuming he'd decline his usual aversion to unnecessary interactions. To her surprise, he agreed. The school board and dean beamed, delighted, and immediately posed for a photo with him. He stood tall and straight, his slim suit accentuating his sharp, ink-dark eyes. A fierce intensity between his brows gave him an intimidating air.

"Maggie," the dean said, "would you like to take a photo together?"

Maggie nodded. "Sure."

Once someone started, others followed. Many stepped forward to take photos with Maggie, including several from Nathael's circle. Maggie felt like she and Nathael were mere props amidst the lively atmosphere.

Vanessa's situation, however, felt awkward. Classmates whispered about the incident; some boys even joked. Regardless of their perceptions, Vanessa felt their gazes were mocking—a sentiment she understood, even if unspoken and despite everyone's pretense of normalcy. But things had happened.

Watching Maggie surrounded by people, Vanessa clenched her fists, her eyes welling up. She stepped forward. "Maggie, can I take a picture with you?"

Maggie smiled, meeting Vanessa's gaze. "Of course."

Several classmates waiting nearby instinctively made way, a special treatment that intensified Vanessa's embarrassment. Standing beside Maggie, Vanessa whispered, "Was it you who did it?"

Maggie's eyes hardened. "What are you talking about?"

That casual tone fueled Vanessa's hatred, but she couldn't pinpoint anyone else besides Maggie. The hacker had responded to her message, explaining that he'd hacked into Maggie's computer but was subsequently targeted by more skilled hackers, preventing him from replying sooner. He knew nothing about what happened to her computer afterward. Everything seemed too coincidental, pointing only to Maggie.

"So, you're just a coward," Vanessa said coldly, trying to provoke a confession.

Maggie chuckled. "You never thought of me as honorable anyway."

"It's you! I never imagined you could be so ruthless! I won't let you off the hook!" Vanessa glared fiercely at the camera, her eyes brimming with tears. The photographer frowned. "Soften your expression; it's too intense."

Maggie remained indifferent. "Perhaps if your methods were more respectable, I might think higher of you."

"Are you finished with the photos? It's taking so long!" a boy waiting impatiently interjected, eager for his picture with Maggie. Vanessa averted her gaze, facing Maggie, visibly trembling. "Just wait. One day, I will make you pay!"

Before Maggie could respond, Vanessa left. Maggie remained unmoved, sensing many things were different from her past life. While she and Vanessa had a falling out then, it was a dignified parting, unlike this open hostility. She knew they would never reconcile in this lifetime. In her past life, she had stolen crucial documents from the Adams, drained their resources using her identity, and conspired with Joseph to eliminate her family. This vendetta needed settling.

After more photos, the dean noticed Maggie taking pictures with designers but not approaching Nathael, feeling irritated. This child… Why is she so obstinate! Why doesn't she recognize who holds the highest status and power here?

Maggie, however, warmly engaged each designer, mentioning their signature works and demonstrating her knowledge of their preferences and styles. This earned her unanimous praise.

"Maggie, are you done? Come quickly, take a picture with Mr. Harris!" The dean and school directors urged, noticing Nathael's increasingly stern expression. They feared he might leave, so they rushed to ensure even the top student in their department networked.