From Sneers to Cheers: Anthea’s Ascent

As soon as Chase finished speaking, an uncanny silence fell over the room.

Daniel, in particular, looked mortified-his face shifting from pale to flushed, the embarrassment clear in his eyes.

How could he be the fool here? It was Sherman who had misunderstood Rebecca, wasn't it? Who else could that mysterious racer be if not her?

Rebecca's hand, stirring her coffee, froze mid-motion. Her complexion paled a shade. Chase belonged to Mr. Christensen, and wasn't Mr. Christensen supposed to like her? What was he getting at now?

Rebecca's grip tightened around her silver spoon.

Daniel shot Chase a glare, trying hard to swallow his anger. "You said Sherman sent you with a video. Then show us. Let's all take a look at this video!"

He was ready-he wanted to see, for himself, who would dare impersonate Rebecca. The very thought made his blood boil with indignation.

Hector chimed in, "He's right, Chase. Talk is cheap. If you have proof, let's see it."

Hector had known Daniel for years. Sure, Daniel could be a bit of a flirt, but he wasn't gullible enough to be tricked so easily. Besides, Hector's impression of Rebecca was positive-she didn't seem like the type to stage a deception.

At that moment, Rebecca's heart hammered in her chest.

surveillance footage would never see the light of day. They'd even destroyed it in front of her. That was

managed to

did remember showing off her driving skills at the school once, with some help from the "system." Or—maybe there was no video at all. Maybe

of relief. Rebecca lifted her chin and looked at Chase, feigning calm. "Chase, if you have evidence, I'd like to see it too. Let's find out who's pretending to

nodded, opened his tablet, and tapped a

was a recording from inside a training

Fine! Here, take the wheel and show us

young woman in the driver's

unreal delicate brows and eyes, snow-pale skin, lips naturally stained rose, a cool, almost

but compared to this woman,

The video continued.

instructor glanced at the girl, repeating instructions, "Go ahead. And let me

the car shot forward, tearing down the S-curve

hands, it moved with the grace and power of a

control, the

series of high-level

maneuvers—drifting, side-slipping,

that left the instructor