Chapter 347

I let out a cold laugh, unsure of what to say, while the woman behind me grew visibly more irritated. "I don't have time for your high-minded speeches. Let's leave it at that—I'm done here," she spat before turning on her heels, continuing to shout insults as I walked away. There was nothing more she could do anyway. When I returned to campus, a familiar figure caught my eye in the distance. Ethan suddenly approached, his gaze intense as he looked at me. "I heard you were hurt. How are you feeling now?" I smiled gently, trying to seem as composed and strong as possible. "It's nothing, really—just a minor injury." Ethan clearly wasn't convinced. His brow furrowed with concern. "Are you sure? If you need help, you have to let me know." I nodded, feeling a warmth bloom inside me. Having someone who genuinely cared for me in such a complicated world was always comforting. I wasn't as sharp or guarded as I had been before, and my defenses weren't as high. "Thank you. I'll be carefu