Betrayed, Then Back For Blood

Beatrice understood exactly what Halle meant by “greet her.” Beatrice said, “Okay, Mom. I’ll wait for Briar at the school gate.”

“And I can even show her around campus,” she added. Both of them smiled, sharing the unspoken understanding.

Meanwhile, Briar, weaving through traffic on her motorbike, received a call from Ashton. “Briar, don’t forget to register at school today.”

“Of course not. I’m on my way now,” Briar answered, her gaze fixed ahead. Her voice came soft and low from inside her helmet, surprisingly

gentle.

Realizing Briar was riding, Ashton asked, “Going alone?”

“Yeah,” Briar answered.

“Poor thing, need a ride?” Ashton inquired. The rift between Briar and the Jennings family was common knowledge. He knew Edgar wouldn’t bother seeing her off.

“Nah, I’m not that fragile.” Briar chuckled, turning down his offer.

Ashton didn’t push. “Alright, dinner tonight then?”

This time she didn’t refuse. “Sounds good. You pick the spot.”

confirmed. After a brief

entrance of Shoneport University. Shoneport, a century–old

entrances.

the crowded front gate, Briar rode her motorbike through a

at the main gate until registration closed, never

Halle: [Mom, registration just ended. I’ve been at the gate this whole time–no sign of Briar,

she was simultaneously relaying Briar’s

acceptance

parked her motorbike when she spotted a man in a grey suit, with white hair but a vigorous demeanor, emerging from

down, then offered a warm, kindly

casual tracksuit, low ponytail, and black–rimmed glasses. Apart from

model student.

to meet you. I’m Briar,” she said politely, tucking her keys

an 18–year–old girl with a soft, pleasant voice and impeccable manners–Marvin’s

real talent in traditional medicine–and she seems so well–behaved. Surely she

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Chapter 34