Chapter 26: A new beginning
After a brief pause, allowing Erica to express her frustration, the man spoke calmly: “Listen, Erica. Right and wrong, lies and truth-that’s not the point I’m addressing here.” “So what are you saying then?” Erica furrowed her brows with suspicion. “Isn’t that important? We need to clarify things. I’ve been unjustly accused. For the sake of my future, I need…” “Being in the position of a school leader, what I care about is the reputation and image of the university,” the principal interrupted, casually admitting, “If your incident reaches the parents’ ears, it will undoubtedly create a wave of great anger. Not to mention the pressure from public opinion. All of it will sink you to the bottom of the abyss. And, of course, it will affect the future of the school. Do you understand what I’m trying to convey?” Erica fell silent at the question. Observing her reaction, the man proceeded to share words of wisdom: “Erica, let’s assume you are right. The incident is not as accused. So what would you do? Specifically, what could you do to seek justice for yourself? Is there anyone standing by your side? Witnesses or evidence?”Exclusive © material by Nô(/v)elDrama.Org.
Erica shook her head helplessly. She was falling into despair because of the principal’s words. Indeed, Erica was alone, isolated, and lonely.
“In my opinion, Max Murphy’s family is also renowned and influential. You can’t possibly rival them. No matter how strong your determination is,” The principal sincerely stated, “Even if I believe you and stand by your side, it’s still not sufficient. The truth is, I can’t assist you. I arrived at this decision, albeit somewhat ruthlessly and unfairly to you, but I must do it. I am acting in the best interest of the school. I hope you understand.” “But, I… My future…” Erica said it bitterly. She appeared on the verge of tears and asked, “Is there no other way?” “The school deeply regrets losing a student as talented as you. However, there is nothing else that can be done. The headmaster said it with a sense of helplessness. His voice was filled with great unease: “Max Murphy’s side has exerted significant pressure on me, as well as the school.” The room fell into silence. Erica clenched her lip so tightly that it drew blood. She fully grasped her current situation. It seemed that Max Murphy, or rather, Kora Watson, wanted to completely ruin Erica. Erica suspects Mrs. Lani is aware of this as well. They are truly wicked. “I will do whatever I can to support you,” the principal said, breaking the silence as he looked at Erica’s pitiful state. “There might be another university for you.” This man had just made a daring decision, one that had never crossed his mind before. Prior to this, he was compelled to follow the council’s demands to protect the school. However, when talking to Erica and realizing her unjust situation, he felt pity for her. His conscience awakened, and he wanted to do something to help Erica. “I see. Thank you very much.” Erica looked straight into the man’s eyes, witnessing his pain and agony as he faced the difficult choice. She knew she shouldn’t burden others with her troubles. It was all because of her own weakness and lack of ability. She couldn’t blame others. Erica saw it as a challenge that fate had bestowed on her. Erica believed in the laws of karma and retribution. Sooner or later, Mrs. Lani, Kora, and Max Murphy will have to experience bitterness and suffering many times over compared to what Erica is currently enduring. On her way home, Erica encountered Kora, who was happily chatting with her friends. Expecting Erica to confront her, Kora wore a smug smile on her face. However, to Kora’s surprise, Erica walked past Kora and Kora’s friend without even glancing at them. Moreover, Erica didn’t shed a single tear over the incident. This infuriated Kora, while Kora’s friend remained indifferent. Erica’s behavior shattered Kora’s plan to provoke Erica. This meant that Erica wouldn’t do anything foolish, as Kora had anticipated. And, of course, there was no chance that Erica would plead with Kora for forgiveness or withdraw her accusations. Erica also had no intention of obeying the orders of Kora and Mrs. Lani. And so Kora’s plan failed again. Actually, Erica had deduced the motive behind Kora’s actions; it was simply a ploy to lure Erica to the Watsons’ house, allowing Kora and Kora’s mother to exert control over her. If Erica were to discover the passwords and keys, the inheritance would fall into the hands of Kora and Kora’s mother. Erica was determined not to let that happen, so she made the decision to concede defeat at the moment. However, she planned to return in the future and take revenge on Kora. Erica, just like that, leisurely left the school. She was determined to take revenge. Since then, no one has seen Erica in college. Erica’s studies had to be abandoned, partly due to the cruel actions of Mrs. Lani and Kora. Erica cannot afford to attend another school due to financial constraints. Nor did she return to Watson’s house as Kora predicted. So, Mrs. Lani and Kora have a lot of trouble getting Erica’s money from the bank. … After the major turning point in her life six months ago, Erica has managed to stabilize her life for the time being. Currently, she is working to earn a living and save up for her tuition fees while continuing to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor. Erica’s job is not specific; she takes up various part-time jobs, from waitressing and serving to assisting in the kitchen at restaurants. She also works as a laborer and does hotel cleaning. Today, the hotel where Erica works is hosting a major event. It is the wedding of two wealthy and famous families. So since early in the morning, Erica has been busy in the kitchen, assisting the chefs in preparing the dishes. When the event takes place, Erica once again carries trays and serves guests. Erica does whatever she can to earn money. A few months ago, while going through a memento left by her late uncle, Erica came across a key and password. Without delay, Erica approached the bank director to claim her inheritance. Unfortunately, a shocking event occurred-the director passed away suddenly. To make matters worse, the inheritance money was given to Kora. Erica was devastated upon hearing the news and collapsed on the floor, crying uncontrollably. The bank staff had to assist Erica to a room where she could rest and regain her composure. Erica was left wondering how Kora obtained the money, but she knew she couldn’t simply go to the Watsons’ house and assert her rights. Confronting Kora and Mrs. Lani without any evidence would be a foolish move. Ultimately, Erica resolved to endure her situation, find a way to overcome the present circumstances and seek another method to bring down Kora and Mrs. Lani. “Erica, take this up to the banquet hall.” A colleague’s voice called for Erica’s attention. “I know; I’ll do it right away.” Erica replied and cheerfully completed the assigned task. There was less than an hour left until the party began. Everything needed to be ready.