From Betrayal to Brilliance Her Rise to a New Life novel Chapter 326

**TITLE: Her Rise 326**
**Chapter 326 Mother and Daughter in Another Life**

Athena let out a deep, frustrated sigh, her shoulders slumping slightly as she leaned against the cool surface of the hospital desk. “It’s more complicated than you realize,” she began, her voice tinged with exasperation. “The first time you handed me that patient’s file, I noticed a multitude of issues right away. But then the patient changed their mind, and everything we discussed just… evaporated.”

She hesitated, a flicker of guilt crossing her features as she met Jaylee’s anxious gaze. “To be honest, I thought it was you who had made the mistake, Jaylee. I owe you an apology.”

Jaylee’s eyes widened in disbelief, panic flooding her expression. “Dr. Hall, no! It wasn’t me! I swear I didn’t do anything wrong! I would never intentionally hurt you. Please, you have to believe me!” Her voice trembled, the desperation palpable.

Athena’s heart softened as she observed the tears brimming in Jaylee’s eyes. A small, reassuring smile crept onto her lips, easing the tension in the room.

Ah, it was just a misunderstanding, nothing more.

“It’s alright,” Athena reassured her, her voice gentle. “That person’s actions didn’t really impact me, and the surgery went off without a hitch.”

But Zaden’s expression darkened, a cold fury settling over his features. “Even if everything went smoothly, she won’t escape the consequences of her actions. I’ll ensure that everything she did is reported to the authorities.”

Athena nodded in agreement.

The thought of that person possibly having accepted a bribe from Maya made it clear that there would be no plea for mercy on her behalf.

After a brief silence, Zaden continued, his tone serious. “This moment is crucial. I’ll arrange for people to guard the patient’s room to prevent any further mishaps.”

Given Maya’s relentless attempts to undermine them, they couldn’t afford to take any risks.

A warm sense of security enveloped Athena as she listened to Zaden’s words.

He always seemed to have everything under control, ensuring her safety and peace of mind.

As the hours passed in the hospital, Athena remained vigilant. Finally, when the anesthesia wore off and the patient stirred awake, a wave of relief washed over her. She could finally allow herself to breathe easy.

“Let’s head home,” Zaden said, approaching her with a warm smile, his arm slipping around her shoulders in a protective gesture. Athena glanced at the clock and realized how late it had gotten. Nodding, she replied, “Yes, let’s go.”

Together, they left the hospital, Zaden taking the wheel while Athena settled into the passenger seat.

As they drove, Zaden turned his head slightly, casting a sideways glance at her. “Shouldn’t we celebrate your success today?”

The very mention of “celebrate” sent a rush of memories flooding back to Athena—particularly the time Zaden had thrown a surprise party for her after her simulation success abroad. A mischievous smile tugged at the corners of her mouth. Was he up to his old tricks again?

Not a chance! This time, she wouldn’t let him have the upper hand!

Athena had once lived in the hospital dorms, but now that she had left with Zaden, would she even return?

Unfortunately, even Athena herself couldn’t answer that question.

As Athena and Zaden arrived at Teri’s school, they found themselves amidst a bustling crowd of parents eagerly awaiting the dismissal of their children.

Since Teri had started at Sunny Kindergarten, Athena had never had the chance to pick her up, always consumed by the demands of her work. Reflecting on this now, a pang of guilt tugged at her heart.

Zaden glanced at her, a knowing smile on his lips. “Teri’s going to be over the moon when she sees you there to pick her up.”

“Or maybe she’ll complain that I haven’t done it in ages,” Athena replied wryly, a hint of self-deprecation in her tone.

“Not a chance. She’s simply thrilled to have you as her mom. She adores you, and she could never be upset with you.”

Athena nodded, unable to deny the truth in his words.

There existed a strange, instinctual bond between her and Teri, an inexplicable tenderness that transcended mere biology. Sometimes, she couldn’t shake the feeling that perhaps they were truly mother and daughter in another life.