Under the Heiress' Facade novel Chapter 147

Lily exclaimed in disbelief, "With today's advanced technology, Hera could easily create an audio that sounds exactly like her!

"That's cheating! If she's too scared to show up, she should just withdraw from the contest instead of playing games!"

"You can't accuse her of cheating without evidence!" Christopher retorted, his expression darkening.

He detested the mention of "cheating" as it reminded him of his past humiliating experience. But what he detested even more was hearing others humiliate Hera in front of him.

"But it's undeniable that she didn't deliver the speech in person," Lily argued softly. Frightened by Christopher's solemn expression, she turned to Zyler, pitifully pleading for his support.

Feeling a surge of protectiveness at the sight of Lily's pleading gaze, Zyler's discontentment with his score of 94 intensified.

"Christopher, why do you always defend that country bumpkin? Have you forgotten that she copied your test paper during the entrance exam? Has she bewitched you or something?" Zyler interjected.

Then he added, "Lily's right. Hera didn't show up for the contest, so we can't be sure if she's the one giving the speech."

"Bewitched? I wonder who's the one bewitched here," Christopher retorted, glaring at Lily with disdain as he spoke through clenched teeth. "Don't jump to conclusions without verifying the truth!"

As Christopher's and Zyler's eyes met, tension thickened in the air, leaving the other contestants bewildered. They couldn't understand why these close friends were suddenly at odds.

"She's not cheating. It's real. Look!" Cindy interjected calmly, pointing at the monitor broadcasting the stage. The camera had now focused on the audience, zooming in to reveal a tall figure entering the main entrance.

Hera, holding her phone to her lips, continued her speech with a nonchalant demeanor.

Dressed in Cavenridge's gray winter uniform, her slim, long legs could be seen under her pleated skirt. Her long hair was casually tied into a bun at the back of her head.