From Ashes of Scandal to His Embrace (Laurinda) novel Chapter 14

“Fabian, I heard the top bully at New Horizons College has been looking for a reason to mess with Laurinda. Why don’t we just let him handle it? Maybe it’ll put Laurinda in her place. I’m honestly hoping it ruins her reputation for good.”

Edward, always by Fabian’s side, was practically buzzing with excitement. He knew exactly what kind of people ran things at New Horizons. If Laurinda got tangled up with them, even if she walked away without a scratch, the rumors alone would be enough to drag her down.

They just wanted to see her fall. It was the only thing that could satisfy the resentment they felt. Edward had never liked how Laurinda acted like she was better than everyone else.

Fabian didn’t answer right away. Instead, he turned toward Laura, who was sitting quietly beside him, and started to explain in a gentle voice what the bullies at New Horizons were really like.

“Fabian, isn’t that kind of harsh? I know Laurinda took my identity, but it’s not like she had a choice. She was just a kid when it happened.”

Laura clung to Fabian’s arm, her expression full of nervous concern, like she was genuinely worried about Laurinda.

Fabian’s heart softened at Laura’s kindness. He took her hand in his, feeling how rough it was, and his voice turned gentle.

“You’re too kind, Laura. Honestly, you should be thinking more about yourself. Laurinda got to live your life, spoiled with everything she wanted. Just one of her fancy creams probably costs more than you’ve spent in a whole year.”

He absentmindedly rubbed her hand, and for a moment he wondered what Laura would have been like if she’d grown up with the life she deserved. Maybe even more confident and dazzling than she was now.

Laura pulled her hand away, smiling awkwardly. “I had no idea her life was so over the top. I just…”

“It’s fine, don’t stress about it. She’s already been kicked out of the Austin family. You’re the real heiress now, and you’re amazing. Your future’s going to be so much better, and I’ll be right here with you, always.”

“Wanda, do you live in a soap opera or something? You’re really good at that passive-aggressive talk.”

The classroom erupted in laughter. Laurinda glanced at the group laughing the hardest, her striking, fox-like eyes sparkling with mischief. She looked completely unbothered, as if the teacher’s words didn’t touch her at all.

Wanda’s face darkened. Seeing Laurinda so calm only made her angrier. She jabbed a finger toward the door.

“You’re not allowed in my class anymore. As long as I’m here, you’re not.”

“Oh, really? Wow, Wanda, you must have a lot of authority. Maybe I should go ask the education board if you’re actually allowed to kick me out of class.”