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.

merely thought he was too happy to respond, so she gave a smug laugh before walking away. After two days

offer, she had already included

with that look? Joining us is a privilege. Don’t you dare take it

want you at first, but we added your name out of consideration for our shared years as classmates.

Determined to maintain a professional attitude,

tasks, he complied without complaint. She asked him to gather academic papers, and he worked tirelessly for three days and nights

no exaggeration to say Theodore worked harder during this time than Joli did. At least Joli’s overtime came with a paycheck, and he could still manage to get

+25 BONUS

Chapter 0789

at Yasmine’s beck and

floor, and looking utterly lost and wronged, Joli frowned. “Don’t panic yet. Let me see the project

“What

report you submitted

have it,”

not have it? By competition rules, each team member is supposed to submit

individually credited to reflect everyone’s contributions. Since Yasmine included your name on the team,