Chapter 9
Her life had been shattered before he finally remembered to care about her education.
How ironic.l
She had devoted ten years of relentless study, hoping to change her fate. Just as her hard work was about to bear fruit, the oppressive forces proved insurmountable.
With a dismissive remark, the Linwood family had sealed her fate, effortlessly casting her into the depths of despair.
She could have had a bright future.
From a young age, her family’s background couldn’t compete with others. The only weapon she had was her extraordinary dedication to her studies
Her dream was to get into an Ivy League university, pursue a master’s, and then a doctorate. She wanted to become a professor to stand on the podium and change the destinies of others like her through education.
But reality dealt her a harsh slap.
Instead of becoming who she aspired to be, she became a convict scorned by society, with a permanent stain on her record.
A blemish that would affect generations.
Thinking of this, Claire’s hands clenched into fists, her nails digging deep into her palms, yet she remained unaware of the pain.!!
“Cresthaven Academy Claire’s voice was soft, almost gentle
However, the mention of “Cresthaven Academy” was as heavy as a thousand–pound boulder, nearly suffocating Nathan, Adah, and Ethan, Cresthaven Academy was the highest–ranking high school in the area, known for its rigorous academic standards. Unlike Elite Crest High, where money could secure admission, Cresthaven valued only merit.
Claire was not just any student; she was consistently at the top of her class, a testament to her brilliance. With her grades, getting into an Ivy League school was a certainty
“Impossible, you’re lying.” Ethan’s voice trembled with agitation. “Cresthaven Academy is over twenty miles away in the suburbs. You used to ride that old bike every day…”
His voice trailed off as realization dawned, leaving him speechless.
Seeing Ethan’s face turn increasingly pale, Claire’s lips curled into a sardonic smile. “I preferred cycling to school rather than attending with Vanessa, because we were never in the same school.”
“I never joined you for breakfast because Cresthaven Academy’s morning classes started at six. I had to get up at four to bike for two hours to make it on time.tit
“I never came home for lunch because the lunch break wasn’t long enough for a round trip. I couldn’t afford to buy lunch, so I survived on water until dinner. By the time I got home, you’d all already eaten. I was left with the leftovers, and you called me ungrateful, saying i preferred cold scraps, wolfing them down like a starving beast…
“Claire, I’m sorry,” Adah’s tears flowed freely, her sorrow palpable. “I didn’t know you’suffered so much. It’s all my fault’s
“You have nothing to apologize for Claire replied, her voice steady and calm as she looked at Adah’s tear–streaked face. “I understand you have no feelings for me since I wasn’t raised by your side. I’ve long grown accustomed to hardship, Mrs. Linwood, wouldn’t you agree?
Hearing this, Adah’s sobs faltered.
“Claire, I beg you, Adah’s memory echoed with the haunting words from five years ago. “You’re stronger than Vanessa, more resilient. You thrived even in the orphanage. I know you’ll adapt to prison too. Please, take the blame for Vanessa.“U
The flood of memories hit Adah like a tidal wave. She clutched her heart, on the brink of collapse.X
Claire watched Adah’s feeble state with cold detachment, her heart full of so
scom.X
