Chapter 146
Irene pulled into Silver City Experimental High’s parking lot and killed the engine. Ethan sat beside her, silent for most of the drive, his fingers nervously tapping against his knee,
‘Ready?” she asked, keeping her voice steady.
Ethan nodded, eyes fixed on the imposing brick building. “As I’ll ever be.”
Irene stepped out in a cream pantsuit that meant business. Every detail had been chosen with a purpose–today wasn’t about blending in but making it damn clear that Ethan had someone who wouldn’t back down.
As they walked through the hallways, the whispers started. Students stared, their curious eyes following them. Irene kept her chin up and her steps purposeful. Ethan slouched slightly beside her, but he defeat in his shoulders was gone. Standing tall took effort when you’d been knocked down, but having someone in your corner made all the difference.
“Principal’s office is this way,” he muttered, nodding toward a corridor.
They rounded the corner just as the office door opened. Anna stepped out clutching a folder, a smug smile playing on her lips. When she spotted them, surprise flashed across her face before settling into something cold and calculated.
“Well,” she said, eyes darting between them, “didn’t expect to see you here.”
Irene didn’t blink. “Clearly.”
Anna’s smile stuck like plastic. “You’re wasting your time. The committee already accepted my recommendation to revoke Ethan’s eligibility.” She patted her folder. “It’s basically a done deal.”
Irene stepped forward, forcing Anna to either step back or stand awkwardly close. Anna retreated half a step.
“I don’t remember anyone putting you in charge of Sterling decisions, Irene said, voice calm but sharp as she pulled out a leather portfolio. “I’ve brought the family’s asset verification and our lawyer’s contact info.“.
She locked eyes with Anna. “If the school makes unfair judgments based on lies, I’ve got plenty of resources to demand they reevaluate the entire scholarship program.”
Anna’s smile flickered. “You think throwing money around fixes everything? This is about principles.”
“Principles?” Irene let out a short laugh. “That’s rich coming from you. What exactly gives you the right to speak for the family?”
Anna’s knuckles went white around her folder. Before she could fire back, Principal Jackson appeared in the doorway, forcing a smile that didn’t reach his eyes.
“Ms. Stoling,” he said, offering his hand. “We weren’t expecting you.
“Obviously,” Irene replied, shaking his hand firmly. “Let’s discuss these accusations against my brother.”
Jackson ushered them inside where two staff members–presumably from the disciplinary committee–sat looking like they’d rather be anywhere else.
“Ms. Sterling, Jackson started once they were seated, “the school has certain procedures-”
“Show me the evidence,” Irene cut in. “And I want to talk to every witness. Making decisions without solid proof is just sloppy.”
Jackson’s smile tightened. “We have protocols that we follow carefully-
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Chapter 146
“Great. Let me see the investigation report and evidence,” Irene Interupted again. Otherwise, we can take this straight to the education board.”
“There’s no need for threats,” Ana jumped in, voice honey–sweet. That won’t help Ethan’s reputation.”
Irene turned to face her directly. “I care more about justice than reputation. But you wouldn’t get the difference.”
The air crackled like static before a storm. Everyone in the room seemed to hold their breath at once.
Irene leaned forward, addressing the committee. “So about this investigation–did anyone check the handwriting before crying forgery? Did anyone actually call the recommenders? Or did you just take some kids‘ word for it?”
The committee members exchanged glances that said everything.
“I want to meet these students,” Irene pressed, “If–they’re brave enough to make accusations, they should be brave enough to say it to our faces.”
Jackson cleared his throat. “I understand your concerns, but-”
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