When fate plays its hand (Miranda)

Chapter 0789

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Theodore sobbed like a child. He had always known he didn’t belong in Yasmine’s little clique. Their exclusion of him wasn’t subtle–it was blatant and deliberate.

At one point, Theodore had clumsily tried to fit in. After all, humans were social creatures. In such an environment, anyone who could join a group would avoid standing alone. Seeking safety and avoiding harm was human nature, and Theodore was no exception.

But soon, he realized that no matter how hard he tried, Yasmine and her group remained aloof, never reciprocating even a shred of kindness.

That’s when he finally understood–some people could never be won over, and some circles were impenetrable no matter what one did. So, he stopped trying and let things take their course.

When he learned about the upcoming competition, his first thought wasn’t to join

anyone’s group. Instead, he thought about what kind of project he wanted to do and who he could recruit to collaborate with him.

Deep down, he had already assumed Yasmine wouldn’t invite him. When one had no expectations, they could truly face rejection and isolation with a sense of calm.

Unexpectedly, Yasmine approached him herself, extending an olive branch. Theodore was stunned and didn’t immediately agree.

thought he was too happy to respond, so she gave a smug laugh before

when he sought out Yasmine to reject her offer, she had already included

a privilege. Don’t you dare take it for

chimed in, “Exactly! We didn’t even want you at first, but we added your name out of consideration for our shared years as classmates.

the right to decline–he was now part of Yasmine’s team. Determined to maintain a professional

worked tirelessly for three days and nights to

this time than Joli did. At least Joli’s overtime came with a paycheck, and he could still manage to get some sleep at

+25 BONUS

Chapter 0789

Yasmine’s beck and call, practically on

Theodore hunched over, his broad frame crumpled on the floor, and looking utterly lost and

froze. “What

report you submitted for

I don’t have it,”

could you not have it? By competition rules, each team member

identical, each is individually credited to reflect everyone’s contributions. Since Yasmine included your name