Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

The moment the accusation was made, the air in the room shifted, tension crackling like static electricity. Only Roseanne was smiling.

She locked eyes with Sybil, her voice dripping with sarcasm, "And what exactly do you mean by cheating? Bribing people, using your connections, or maybe having someone ghostwrite for you?"

Fearing her voice wouldn't carry, Mamie, ever the supportive friend, dashed to the front to grab a microphone, running back with a grin plastered on her face, practically shoving the mic into Roseanne's hand with an unspoken command: Give it to them. Make it hurt. I live for this drama!

Testing the mic with a quick tap, Roseanne found it to her liking-loud and clear.

"Sybil, was it? First off, you flatter me. I neither have the funds nor the connections to influence the editors at 'Science', convincing a panel of distinguished researchers across the globe to do me a mere college student-a favor against their better judgment." "And as for ghostwriting... intriguing idea, but what exactly could I offer someone capable of penning a 'Science' paper to willingly take a bullet for me?"

"You seem quite familiar with these... underhand tactics. Perhaps you could enlighten me?"

Sybil, caught off guard, bristled like a cornered cat, "What are you insinuating?! When have I ever resorted to such measures? Show me the proof if you're so convinced!"

Roseanne feigned confusion, "When did I specifically mention you? Although, your defensiveness does make one wonder..."

"I... I..." Sybil was at a loss for words.

a slight smirk, Roseanne pushed back, "You're asking me

sit down, her face

reaction intently, her gaze

of the microphone in Roseanne's grip made him reconsider. He wasn't about to make himself an easy

spoke

at the students, but at the authority presiding over the gathering, "Mr. Hiram, does this 'Science' publication have a corresponding

first author, but who

Mr. Hiram nodded, "Yes."

Edna's interest peaked, "Who?"

name to

Hiram announced, "Owen, Mr. Reynolds

produce such a high-caliber paper in record time. Owen' involvement

The corresponding author typically

project, handling the finances, design, and ensuring the quality of the work. The first author, on the other hand, is usually the one who has conducted most of the experiments and has invested the most

grad student like Roseanne, reaching the heights of 'Science' seemed unattainable.