Mikaela had no fear or guilt after her "true identity" was revealed, probably because of the extraordinary man standing behind her.
Soon, Nora realized just how unlucky she was.
The middle-aged man, cigar in hand, cast a suspicious glance at Nora, his voice carrying a hint of disdain as he spoke in a hoarse voice, "Stephen, what's your relationship with this girl?"
Before Nora could respond, she watched in astonishment as Stephen stepped out of the crowd.
Facing the middle-aged man, he wore a hint of guilt on his fair and delicate face as he replied with a forced smile, "Uncle, I... we're just ordinary classmates."
He knew Nora was watching him, disappointment evident in her eyes.
Her watery eyes quickly filled with mist, looking pitiful and tugging at the heartstrings.
"Stephen?" She thought he would at least have the courage to acknowledge their relationship like a man. But to her surprise, Stephen distanced himself from her at this critical moment.
Just classmates? What a convenient label!
Nora thought of the sweater she had carefully knitted and placed in her bag, intending to give it to him. It was no longer needed.
Unable to meet Nora's gaze, Stephen smiled helplessly, lowering his head.
Ultimately, it was because their Prince family relied on the support of his uncle.
His uncle was an old friend of the President's wife, and his uncle's sister had married Emily's father.
If Stephen's uncle had not suffered a debilitating injury in his youth, preventing him from having children, Stephen wouldn't have been pressured to carry on the family line.
With advanced medical technology, Stephen's uncle could have had a test-tube baby. However, due to the family's beliefs, they believed that every life was a gift from God and should not be forced.
For Stephen to inherit the Prince family's vast wealth in the future, he needed the approval of his uncle.
Since childhood, his uncle had sincerely groomed him to be the heir, hence the strict demands placed on him. If his uncle found out he was at the bottom of the grade and dating, he would surely be criticized.
The Prince family would never accept a union with the Lawrence family, a family of lower standing.
Satisfied with his answer, Mr. Prince patted Stephen's shoulder benevolently.
"Very well, you're still young. Focus all your energy on your studies. Only when you meet my standards can I entrust both the Prince family and the company to you."
"I've been young before. It's okay to be carefree, but be mindful."
"Always remember, you are the future heir of the Prince family, with a noble status. Learn to protect your reputation and not associate with just anyone."
Just anyone?
Hearing the derogatory words directed at herself, Nora felt her strong sense of pride was trampled on.
"The Lawrence family, newcomers to Onistead without any roots, were they? Yet, here was Nora, determined to catch Stephen's attention, letting them know that Nora wasn't one to be messed with.
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