Chapter 42

“Noelle, are you mad at me? I’m worried that man will trick you,” Xenia said.

Noelle said impassively, “Please keep your insincere kindness to yourself.” She knew Xenia wanted to ruin her reputation, but she had no intention of being involved with the playboy.

Turning, she headed toward school, her bag on her shoulder. Her face was emotionless, but her presence commanded attention. Everyone parted to let her pass. Noelle was famous after her twelve-hit combo in the gaming match, the esports industry's new favorite. Many teams wanted to recruit her, but none dared, knowing she was Lucas Liddell's sister. Her academic improvement also garnered admiration.

Once Noelle left, whispers grew louder. Xenia bit her lip, turning to Justin. “Are you Justin Parham? Noelle has a temper; don’t take it personally.”

“Does she often stay out all night?” he asked.

“Not always. Our family is strict. But she’s been close to a school doctor, causing a family argument and late nights,” Xenia said anxiously. “Justin, don’t spread this. It’ll hurt Noelle’s reputation.”

Justin watched Noelle go, his expression changed. A hint of malice flashed in Xenia’s eyes.

Several boys waited in Noelle’s classroom. Upon sitting, she saw more love letters than before. She glanced at them, then threw them in the trash.

Loud wails erupted outside.

“She didn’t even read it before throwing it away!”

“Mine was thrown away too!”

The noise grated on Noelle. She had no time for such trivialities.

Xenia felt uncomfortable seeing the letters. She used to be the most popular girl, but Noelle had surpassed her.

During break, Noelle felt stomach cramps. In the restroom, she realized her period was coming.

Emerging, Xenia approached. “Noelle, what do you think of Justin?”

Noelle replied indifferently, “We’re not close.”

“But I think Justin is a good man…” Xenia said.

“Stop being annoying! If you like him, make a move. Don’t take your jealousy out on me.”

Xenia’s eyes reddened. “That wasn’t my intention.”

A follower retorted, “Noelle, you really think Justin likes you? The Parhams are way out of your league.”

Noelle chuckled. “If the Parhams are out of my league, who’s in it? People like you?”

The students nodded.

“That makes sense. Noelle’s the true Liddell daughter; Xenia’s adopted. They aren’t in the same league.”

“Enough! Don’t let them hear you,” someone whispered.

Noelle ignored them and left. Xenia lowered her head, hatred filling her expression. She wouldn’t give up on Noelle or Justin.

After school, an even larger crowd gathered. An ominous feeling crept over Noelle.

At the gates, Justin leaned against his car, a bouquet in hand, candles spelling out her name.

“Noelle!”

“Say yes!”

The crowd shouted.

Noelle grabbed the fire extinguisher from the guard station, aimed it at the candles, and put them out.