Chapter 48

It wasn't just them. Even those nearby whispered and pointed. Felicia overheard someone say, "Look, isn't that the one from the photos? The real heiress, Felicia Fuller?"

Another voice added, "I heard she snatched her sister's fiancé! How shameless! She's just lucky to be born rich." A third chimed in, "Isn't it amazing? From country bumpkin to refined heiress. Tsk, tsk."

Thanks to Arnold, Felicia's past was public knowledge, making it impossible to remain unnoticed. At school, wealthy students looked down on her, fearing association would lower their status. Those from more modest backgrounds kept their distance, wary of the backlash. Many sided with Kayla, fiercely defending her. They questioned how the real heiress could claim what belonged to the innocent Kayla, a victim of the birth mix-up.

Felicia kept her gaze straight ahead, pretending not to hear. As she headed to her dormitory after registration, three boys blocked her path. Their leader, dressed in designer clothes, was Melvin, Kayla's ardent admirer—the one who had orchestrated her kidnapping. She hadn't sought revenge, but now he seemed eager for confrontation.

Melvin stepped closer, scoffing. "You're resilient. Surprised you made it out."

Felicia rolled her eyes, pretending to clean her ears. "Can't hear you. Are you barking?" She wanted him to reveal details of the kidnapping so she could record it as evidence.

Melvin wasn't foolish; he knew she was goading him. He sneered, "I don't hit women, but if you dare touch someone I care about…"

Ever since Kayla mentioned Felicia slapping her, Melvin had awaited this moment. He felt compelled to defend Kayla, to show his feelings. He raised his hand, but before it could strike, Felicia grabbed his wrist. Needles pierced his palm. He recoiled, initially thinking she was bluffing, but the pain was real. He didn't dare move.