Chapter 609

Hazel and James remained silent, while the professor was clueless about what happened. Since Oliver arrived, the professor's focus seemed to waver, clearly unnerved by the unexpected visitor. The moment the dismissal bell rang, the professor quickly exchanged a brief nod with Oliver, then made a hasty exit, clutching his books as though making a narrow escape. The students in the classroom stared at Oliver in the front row, too intimidated to leave just yet. Grace, with her tear-streaked eyes, glanced up before throwing herself into Oliver's embrace. He wrapped an arm around her shoulders and said gently, "It's okay, I'm here now. I'll stay with you through your classes today. Let's see if anyone dares to say anything." Sniffling, Grace managed a tearful acknowledgment. Oliver handed her empty water cup to James, pointing toward the hallway. Without needing further instruction, James sprinted off to refill it with hot water. Hazel couldn't resist teasing, "Second Brother