A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

Zachary hadn’t expected Ignatius to change so much over just one winter break.

He remembered how, in the past, Ignatius would anxiously check his answers right up until the last second. But now, barely half an hour into the exam, Ignatius had already finished and was dozing at his desk. Clearly, he’d put in some serious work over the holidays.

Zachary glanced at the clock, then refocused on his own exam.

A sudden gust swept through the classroom, rustling the test papers and sending Ignatius’s pen rolling to the floor. That jolted him out of his nap–he leaned over to retrieve it.

The next thing anyone knew, both Ignatius and his chair crashed to the floor with a thud that echoed off the walls. Every head snapped up, even the proctor startled from her seat.

“Ignatius? Ignatius!” The proctor rushed over, anxiety etched across her face. “Are you alright? Can you get up?”

Ignatius was pale as a ghost, clutching his stomach. Despite the winter chill, sweat

beaded on his forehead.

Zachary reacted instantly, hurrying over to help Ignatius back to his feet. The proctor righted the fallen chair so Ignatius could sit down again.

While the teacher fussed, Zachary moved in closer, checking Ignatius’s pulse and pressing a few points on his hand.

better?”

still looked dazed, but managed

spasm,” he explained to the teacher. “It’s nothing serious. Let him rest in

eyed Ignatius, who was already looking less drawn, though she still

for a check–up once he’s settled. Just to be safe,” Zachary added, unfazed

to catch my breath and finish

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12:41

Chapter 261

interjected, rejecting their suggestions.

exam. Your health comes first–what’s the point of a high score if you’re

silent moments before, was now buzzing with whispers and sideways glances. An unexpected incident like this was a rare break from the monotony, and with everyone fresh back from break, few could resist

distraction.

on your exams!” the proctor snapped, and the room fell silent again,

said calmly, the pain no longer twisting

The teacher studied him for a moment, then seemed to realize further