Chapter 113

Following Kennedy’s words, unease washed over Mia like an unwelcome tide.

She shot a hesitant glance toward Timothy, silently pleading with her eyes.

Timothy responded casually saying, “It’s alright.”

A sense of relief flooded Mia as she watched Kennedy usher Timothy his seat.

Timothy sat in the front row, signifying his esteemed position.

Puzzled, Mia wondered about Timothy’s unexpected presence, considering his demanding schedule.

However, the reason would soon unfold.

As Mia ascended the stage, Timothy, the generous sponsor behind the financial grant, took the

initiative to personally bestow the awards upon the worthy recipients.

Mia observed Timothy’s polished appearance and graceful demeanor.

With the award certificate in hand, he cast a patronizing glance her way, remarking, “Keep up the good

work.”

Suppressing her true sentiments, Mia offered a forced smile as she took the certificate, momentarily

entertaining a rebellious urge to confront him head–on.

The award ceremony concluded swiftly, and without glancing behind her, Mia exited the lecture hall.

She believed that by maintaining her brisk pace, she could avoid any unwanted encounters.

Kennedy seemed keen on introducing her to Timothy, perhaps even extending a dinner invitation

afterward.

However, she had no interest in attending.

As expected, before reaching the study hall, her phone buzzed with a call from Riley.

She chose not to pick up.

Later in the evening, Mia returned Riley’s call, explaining, “I apologize for missing your call, my phone

was on

silent while I was in the study hall.”

“It’s alright,” Riley responded. “Mr. Shaw had hoped to invite you for dinner, especially given our

esteemed guest today. But the moment had passed.”

Mia’s gut feeling proved accurate. She felt relieved and grateful for her timely escape.

After ending the call, Mia left the study hall and headed back to her marital home.

As she entered, she found Timothy casually seated on the couch, clad in relaxed attire, deeply

engrossed in

his tablet.

Timothy acknowledged her entrance, commenting, “You seem busier than I am.”

Balancing a book in her hand, Mia met his eyes and replied, “Well, you know what they say, the early

bird

+15 BONOS

Timothy’s demeanor shifted abruptly, a shadow crossing his face. “That’s none of your concern,” he

retorted sharply.

Respecting his boundary, Mia chose not to press further. She walked away with a determined stride.

As long as Maya’s brother could expertly handle Laura’s surgery, she wouldn’t allow such interactions

to

unsettle her.

Alone on the couch, Timothy scrolled through his phone, finding Heath’s message, “We’re still in search

of a fitting doctor.”

A sigh escaped him as he massaged his temples, weariness evident on his face.

The next day, as Mia returned to college for her classes, an unsettling feeling crept over her. She

sensed her classmates‘ gazes carried an unusual weight.

Before long, Gina forwarded her a link to the college’s online forum with a troubling headline. “Unveiling

the Truth Behind the Early Award Recipient–A Hidden Patronage?”

Curious, Mia clicked on the post. Its contents were blunt–alleging she had secured the award due to

backing

from a patron.

To amplify the claim, a photo was attached, capturing a moment of her opening the door to an upscale

car.

The photo was unmistakably taken on the evening she dined with her classmates and later joined

Timothy in

his car. Fortunately, Timothy’s face remained uncaptured in the image.

After closing the link, Mia quickly responded to Gina, saying, “I know who is behind this.”

The day before, Taylor had confronted Mia out of the blue, insinuating she had insider knowledge about

Mia’s

secrets.

Indeed, Taylor was skilled at elevating her own status by bringing others down.

After class, Riley phoned Mia directly, saying, “Mr. Shaw wants me to thoroughly investigate this issue.

Mia,

please draft a statement detailing everything.”

Without a second thought, Mia dialed Nathan’s number. He answered almost immediately, “Mia, what’s

going

on?”

“Nathan, I need your expertise. Can you trace an IP address for me?”

Concerned, Nathan responded, “You need to clarify the situation, Mia. Tell me everything so I can

guide you

appropriately.”

Mia quickly forwarded the forum link to Nathan, declaring, “I want to track down whoever is spreading

these

rumors.”

Upon seeing the post, Nathan’s anger flared up. Anyone who dared to spread false accusations about

his

sister was definitely asking for trouble.

With unwavering resolve, Nathan replied, “Just give me ten minutes. Go ahead and grab yourself a

coffee