From Ashes of Scandal to His Embrace (Laurinda) novel Chapter 158

Laurinda watched them sneaking around and asked quietly, “You two heading out?”

She didn’t seem surprised by their attempt to dodge her. Her eyes lingered on both of them, like she had something on her mind.

“We’re not leaving. We’re just hungry, about to ask the butler if there’s anything to eat. Why, are Irvin and Shirley going somewhere? I can walk them out if they are.”

Bonnie definitely wasn’t going to admit she was trying to escape. If Laurinda found out she’d been avoiding her on purpose, coming back next time would be nearly impossible.

“Is that so?”

Laurinda narrowed her eyes, smiling, but the smile didn’t quite reach her eyes. The air in the room tightened, and Bonnie and York both felt a chill run down their spines for not telling the truth.

Bonnie’s mind raced, already plotting how to get back in Laurinda’s good graces. If she had to, she’d spill the beans about her plan for Fabian.

“Well…”

Laurinda suddenly grinned. “Come on, I’m just teasing you. There’s still food in the kitchen. Go help yourselves. It’s New Year’s. Unless you’ve got something really important, stay and celebrate with us.”

Laurinda didn’t have many people she truly cared about. Her friends were scattered all over, but the ones she treasured most were right here. She wanted to make the most of it.

With Laurinda’s invitation, York and Bonnie both agreed right away. Even if there was something urgent, they weren’t about to leave today.

Soon everyone was sitting together, sharing a few drinks, and the mood brightened up right away.

Laurinda listened to York trying to talk Irvin into joining him at the lab. She glanced at Adolphus and caught him watching her. Their eyes met, and Laurinda felt her cheeks warm.

“There are other ways into university. You could aim for a guaranteed spot. There’s a national biology competition in March. If you’re confident, give it a shot. There are three guaranteed admissions up for grabs.”

Irvin and Shirley both frowned in surprise. They hadn’t expected Laurinda to know about the March competition.

“Do you think… I could actually pull it off?”

Irvin wasn’t sure he was good enough. The competition would be brutal. It just didn’t seem as safe as the exams.

“You can do it,” Adolphus said from beside them. His voice was calm, but to Irvin it felt like a weight lifted. He knew just how capable Adolphus was. “Just do your best in the competition. I’ll handle the rest.”

Irvin nodded, finally feeling reassured. “Alright. I’ll talk to my teacher tomorrow and go to the lab with York.”