Chapter 17
Chapter 17:
Realizing that he had been misled, the principal coughed awkwardly. “It’s clear now. Rylie earned her perfect score honestly. We owe her an apology and a cleared reputation p>
“Those who’ve wronged Rylie should apologize openly,” the dean added.
Immediately switching tone, Stacey exclaimed with forced admiration, “Rylie, you’re unbelievable! You’ve obviously been studying in secret; no wonder you’ve excelled. And surely you understand that Leland showed up today because he was eager to help you clear your name. You can see how genuinely he cares p>
Leland cut in sharply, “Enough. Rylie’s beyond understanding simple sentiments like that p>
“Oh? Is Leland really that kind?” Rylie retorted scornfully. “Spare me the excuses. Just apologize p>
Turning toward Fred, Rylie warned him gently, “Don’t forget about honoring your bet p>
Fred’s face flushed with anger. “You tricked us, Rylie. Secretly studying to embarrass us and letting everyone believe you were a cheat — what an underhanded move p>
Unable to remain silent, the dean interjected firmly, “Mr. Kirk, you’re unfairly partial toward Stacey. Why do you overlook Rylie’s clear and exceptional abilities p>
Leland bristled with unease yet remained defiant. “I’ve treated them equally. The problem here lies with Rylie p>
With calm authority, Rylie instructed, “Enough excuses. Just apologize p>
Holding back tears, Stacey pleaded earnestly, “Rylie, forgive me. I’m entirely responsible. Blame me if you must, but please don’t hold this against Leland. I’m truly sorry p>
Unable to bear her shame, Stacey turned and fled, sobbing.
“See what you’ve done?” Leland snapped at Rylie before running after Stacey.
Fred wanted to go and comfort Stacey, but two imposing men entered abruptly, seizing his shoulders. One sneered coldly, “Who gave you permission to leave p>
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Fred flinched in shock. “Who the hell are you? What do you think you’re doing p>
Without his military attire, Brock firmly hauled Fred outside to the crowded sports field, assisted by his companion.
Brock forced Fred to his knees with a swift kick, then mockingly patted his cheek. “It’s time to keep your promise, Mr. Dury. Crawl on the ground and apologize to Miss Kirk for everyone to hear p>
“It was just a joke!” Fred blurted, his face crimson with embarrassment. He deeply regretted leaving his bodyguards at home.
Brock’s eyes narrowed dangerously. “Just a joke, huh? Wouldn’t you have demanded Miss Kirk crawl and apologize if she had failed p>
Fred hesitated for a moment. As a trained military interrogator, Brock was certain that Fred would have.
Brock wouldn’t tolerate humiliation toward Rylie, especially since she had once saved the general’s life. He straightened confidently, towering above Fred. “You’d better honor your bet, or your family’s wealth will vanish overnight p>
Fred twisted his face in defiance. “And who exactly are you to threaten my family? You can’t ruin us with just a few words p>