Chapter 22

Evelina was at it again. She quickly interjected, "Sir, I just knew she wouldn't cheat. Let's not jump to conclusions. Nullifying her grades might seem fair, but it will really hurt her."

After some deliberation, the teacher said, "Lemira's rank will be put on hold pending further investigation. If cheating is confirmed, appropriate action will be taken."

Once the teacher left, the classroom erupted in noise. One of Evelina's sidekicks sneered, "I just knew her sudden improvement had to be cheating." A smug look crossed Evelina's face as she quickly texted Alaric:

Alaric, what do we do? Lemmy cheated to win your bet, and now she might get a disciplinary note. I'm so worried about Lemmy!

Lemira opened her book and began reviewing. She didn't care about her rank being nullified; Evelina might influence the teacher, but she couldn't influence the university entrance exam scores. Yet, a pang of discomfort struck her. She'd planned to play video games with Orion if she ranked in the top 100. But she hadn't visited the infirmary lately, and Orion hadn't replied to her messages. Feeling down, she wondered if she'd overestimated their friendship.

As morning classes ended, excited shrieks came from outside. Lemira looked up to see Alaric. "Evelina, your brother is so hot," someone exclaimed.

Evelina proudly accepted a cupcake from Alaric. "Alaric, Lemmy's right here. Maybe you should talk to her. If she apologizes and admits to cheating, maybe she won't be disciplined."

Alaric glanced at Lemira, who remained focused on her textbook. She knew why he was there—Evelina relished her humiliation. But she wouldn't admit to cheating.

Standing at the classroom door, Evelina feigned concern. "Lemmy, Alaric's here. Don't worry." Lemira pretended not to hear, ignoring Alaric.

Alaric's concern quickly faded. He said coldly, "I'll go see the teacher in the office first," and left.

Only then did Evelina approach Lemira with the cupcake. "Lemmy, Alaric only brought one cupcake for me. He probably just forgot about you. I'll share it with you."

Lemira saw through Evelina's bragging. She was used to it; every time her brother visited, he brought gifts only for Evelina. She'd once complained to Lucian, who'd told her she was being naughty and didn't deserve gifts. Now, she couldn't care less.

Lemira's phone rang; it was Orion. Stepping into the hallway, she took a deep breath before answering. "Hello, Orion."

"How did the grades go?"

A lump formed in Lemira's throat. "I was ranked in the top 100, but it looks like my score might be nullified."

Orion's laid-back tone turned serious. "What happened?"