Chapter 266

She wouldn’t accept this performative charity. Taking it now? That’d be like eating shit.

If she accepted that trophy, it would be just like the rumors online said, and she’d have no way to clear her name.

Paloma Wyatt’s eyes held unmistakable sympathy as she shook her head with a sigh, consoling her: “Stay off the internet for now. Those netizens could be monsters behind screens–don’t let them get to you. That trophy is yours, plain and simple.”

Ms. Wyatt reached out, covering her hand, and murmured: “Besides, in my heart, you truly deserve the champion’s trophy. I genuinely want it in your hands.”

Alarieka remained resolute, speaking softly: “Since you believe I have what it takes to win, Ms. Wyatt, let me earn the championship fair and square next time. This one doesn’t count.”

Seeing Alarieka’s determination, Paloma dropped the subject after briefly discussing compensation before leaving.

Soon after Paloma left, Jaylene showed up.

Jaylene immediately asked about her fracture, sighing in relief upon learning it wasn’t serious. Then she planted herself by the bed, hands on hips, eyes blazing.

“Seriously, why does everything go wrong whenever Kieran Argent and Roschelle Whitaker are involved? Things weren’t this bad before! Now you’ve got a fracture and online bullies after you. What did you even do to deserve this? Are you cursed or something? Maybe I should brew you some mugwort bathwater to wash off the bad luck.”

“And that Roschelle! I saw her statement video. Jesus, are people blind?! Can’t they see she’s a total phony saint? Not just her–her brainless fans too, cursing left and right. Why aren’t their accounts banned?”

“She plagiarized! How can anyone think she’s innocent? Even I can tell those excuses were just whitewashing! Are people online idiots? Can’t anyone see through this? And that trophy–who needs her to ‘yield‘ it? A plagiarist has no right to hold a championship cup!”

“Those media outlets and influencers must be paid off. What garbage are they posting?”

Alarieka tugged Jaylene’s sleeve helplessly. “Enough. Calm down first. Have some water–your lips are dry.”

Jaylene poked Alarieka’s forehead in frustration. “You! Why did you save her? Should’ve let that shelf crush her! You’re such a fool, rushing to rescue someone who despises you! Bet Roschelle’s laughing at you with her friends right now. Look how her fans thanked you–cursing their savior! They bit the hand that fed them! Promise me you’ll never pull this crap again. Got it?”

Alarieka nodded. “Okay, I won’t save her next time.”

This wasn’t lip service. She meant it. Her principles and morals had made her rush over without thinking, knowing full well Roschelle’s nature.

As she’d said, she’d have saved anyone under that shelf. But this ordeal taught her a lifelong lesson–she’d always remember Roschelle’s smile while being carried away by Kieran. Some people just aren’t worth saving.

Jaylene’s chest heaved, face flushed crimson. “Why is Roschelle fixated on ruining you? She’s vile. How do women like her even exist?”

Alanicka pulled her down to sit on the bed’s edge, voice gentle. “Don’t be angry. I’m not bothered by it.”

Jaylene said urgently: “I’m just so frustrated. Why are those people badmouthing you like that? It makes me furious just watching.”

Alaricka could only reach out and gently stroke Jaylene’s back.

Jaylene took several deep breaths to calm down, her eyes filled with concern as she looked at Alaricka’s ankle.

“You took such a bad fall. How long will it take to heal? You’re about to take the National College Entrance Examination. What if the fracture affects your preparation and your scores?”

Alarieka’s eyes flickered slightly. She replied softly. “It won’t. Don’t—”

Chapter 267