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.

before walking away. After two days of internal struggle, Theodore finally mustered the courage to

she had already included his name on the team list

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

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

was now part of Yasmine’s team. Determined to maintain a professional attitude,

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

time than Joli did. At least Joli’s overtime came with a paycheck, and he could

+25 BONUS

Chapter 0789

was at Yasmine’s beck and call, practically

hunched over, his broad frame crumpled on the floor, and looking utterly lost and wronged, Joli frowned. “Don’t panic yet. Let

froze. “What project

report you submitted

I don’t have

By competition rules, each team member

Yasmine included your name on the team, there should be a copy with