Chapter 2

Several of our classmates gasped when they heard Vivian's story, immediately offering help.

"Don't worry. We're not heartless like certain people!"

Vivian looked up, a trace of provocation hidden in her smile. "Thank you, everyone. But please don't say that. This is my own problem after all. I can't force anyone to help me."

The classroom quickly filled with sarcastic comments about how I was nowhere as generous or resilient as Vivian, and how I lacked Lionel's compassion and sense of responsibility.

I couldn't be bothered arguing with this group of idiots. Right now, the only thing that mattered was my job.

I had promised my mother that I would start from the bottom, gain experience, and eventually take over the family company my late father had left behind.

Thinking of that, I immediately called the company to explain the situation with my degree certificate.

But unexpectedly, I was scolded. "This morning, someone told me that your grades were terrible, that you failed classes, that your résumé was fake, and that those awards weren't even yours. I didn't believe it at first.

"But now, I get it. You've been lying to me from the start! If you can't even get your degree certificate, what abilities could you possibly have? Our company will never hire someone who falsifies their qualifications."

Before I could explain, he angrily hung up.

A nameless rage burned in my chest as I looked up at Lionel.

At that moment, Vivian's phone rang. I saw the familiar company name and number on her screen, and a bad feeling crept over me.

That company had only recruited one person from our university. And during the interviews, I had been the only applicant from our school.

Very quickly, the exact same voice came through the phone. "Our company appreciates people who fight hard for opportunities. So, after careful consideration, we've decided to hire you. When would you be available to start?"

Vivian looked around excitedly. "This afternoon! As soon as I get my degree certificate, I can report in."

"Great. See you this afternoon."

After hanging up, Vivian gazed at Lionel affectionately. "Lionel, thank you for lending me Amelia's résumé and helping me fight for this opportunity. I'm truly grateful."

She then turned to me with a guilty expression and said, "I'm really sorry. You have to take the blame and sit for the makeup exam because of my degree certificate, and now I even took your job opportunity. I hope you won't hold it against me.

"Once you pass the makeup exam, I'll recommend you to the company and see if they can let you start as an intern."

Lionel glanced at me dismissively. "Don't bother with her. She can do whatever she wants. Besides, being able to contribute something to you is her privilege. You earned this yourself by being amazing."

I was so furious that I wanted to scream. Those were things I had worked my butt off for.

I slapped Lionel across the face. "What right do you have to decide for me? You stole my work to make her look good, and you have the nerve to speak? So much for worrying about getting exposed."

Lionel was stunned for a moment, suppressing the anger in his gaze. He barked, "Your achievements were all fake. If you can use them, why can't she? Can you stop being so petty? All you ever think about is tearing her down!"

I glared at him. "Who said they were fake…"

"Enough. Don't argue with me. Do you think I wouldn't know the truth? I'm your boyfriend. In the future, you'll be marrying into my family. You should start listening to me sooner rather than later.

"What does a woman need a good career for? All you need to worry about is staying at home and taking care of your husband and kids. I'll support you in the future. Isn't that easier than struggling on your own? I've already planned everything out for you. What more do you want?"

Before I could speak, others immediately started flattering him.

"Amelia, you should appreciate what you have. Lionel is such a catch. If you keep acting this immature, he could dump you anytime."

"It's such a shame. If Vivian had transferred here earlier, someone as amazing as Lionel never would've dated you in the first place."

I looked at Lionel, basking in everyone's praise, and laughed in disbelief.

"Don't flatter yourself. I was only dating you for fun. As for marriage, I already have someone else in mind."