Chapter 298 National Medal
“As for Tilda… she has her own path to follow. Back then, I didn’t even know if I wanted her to win the world championship, but when I saw people accusing her of plagiarism, I was furious and worried. Now that the truth is out and she’s brought honor to our country, as her biological father–at least in terms of DNA–I’m truly happy and proud of her.”
Russell finally spoke his mind.
This wasn’t about the grudge between Russell and Tilda anymore. It had become something bigger. It was about the reputation of the nation. Tilda had represented her country at the world competition. If a plagiarism scandal had really happened, it wouldn’t just hurt Tilda–it would be a blow to the country’s image! As a patriotic businessman, Russell genuinely hoped Tilda could make the country proud!
As for the “attacks” Jenson Group might face next… He refused to be taken down so easily!
“Dad, thank you for not hating Tilda because of this.”
Wade secretly sighed in relief. At first, he’d been worried Russell and Blair would end up resenting Tilda even more over all this. He bowed deeply to Russell, full of gratitude.
“Silly boy, do I really seem that petty to you? Come on now…”
Tilda returned to her hotel, exhausted. She turned down every interview request. Simon followed her back to the room, still talking about how wild today had been, how Instagram was blowing up with congratulations. He was so excited, he looked happier than if he’d won the prize himself.
Tilda quickly packed her suitcase. “All right, Professor Linscott, I’m heading out now, switching locations. If anyone wants an interview, just handle it for me, okay?”
“What? Tilda, you’re leaving all this to me? What if I say something wrong…?”
“It’s fine, I’ll forgive you–as long as you don’t say anything totally crazy. I’m no good at dealing with the media, so… bye!”
Tilda grabbed her suitcase, put on sunglasses and a mask, and tried to sneak out.
Just then—two middle-aged men in suits showed up at her door.
“Excuse me… is Tilda here? We’re staff from Cetherland, here to present her with a medal.”
Simon immediately pointed at Tilda. “That’s her.”
The staff looked surprised at her get-up.
Tilda explained, “Uh… I get nervous around people. I don’t like interviews, so I was hoping to slip away.”
“Oh! Well… let’s present the medal right now!”
They handed Tilda the medal, engraved with her name and decorated with bright stars on the back. After taking a few photos, the staff left. Tilda held the National Medal in her hand, still warm from their touch. She couldn’t help but feel a rush of excitement, like her blood was boiling.
To be honest… This National Medal felt hotter and more precious than any award she’d ever won before! Suddenly, she felt like showing off. What should she do?
She decided to just go for it.
Andy sent her a message. “Tilda, why aren’t you downstairs yet? I’ve been waiting in the parking lot forever.”
“Because I got a present! Look,” Tilda replied.
Tilda snapped a photo and sent it to Andy, Jude, Una, and Dane.
Andy replied, “Ha–Tilda, you’re the best!”
Jude responded, “Tilda’s honor is so well-deserved.”
Una answered, “Ahh! My bestie is a world champion! A superstar recognized by the country! I’m never letting go of you!”
Dane followed, “Tilda, I’m proud of you.”
Then Dane sent another message. “About that Myst, Tilda, did you feel anything strange? Or did he say something to you?”
Tilda’s heart skipped a beat, and she replied, “Dane, did Myst feel familiar to you too?”
Dane answered, “Just a little, when I saw him on the livestream but I’m not sure. There aren’t many people who give me that feeling. My mentor does, you do, and now this Myst… I really want to know who he is.”
Dane shared his thoughts.
Tilda texted, “Don’t worry, Dane. Myst gave me his phone number during the award ceremony, and I’ve got some questions for him myself. I’ll go find Myst and figure out who he really is. You just wait for my answer.”
“Okay… Tilda, be careful. Don’t get hurt,” Dane replied.
They found a new hotel, and Andy used some tricks so Tilda could check in without showing her ID. She spent the night hanging out with Andy, exploring Motrar, and having fun everywhere.
The next morning, Tilda woke up and got ready. She pulled out her phone to call Myst. Myst’s ringtone was a cheerful Christmas song.
“Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way…”
While she waited for Myst to pick up, Tilda glanced out the window.