From Betrayal to Brilliance Her Rise to a New Life novel Chapter 331

**Her Rise 331**

**Problem With the Video**

A flicker of realization crossed Kate’s face as she turned to Athena, her expression shifting from casual conversation to something more serious. “Oh, right! I almost forgot to tell you,” she began, her voice brimming with excitement. “The last time we spoke, I submitted your surgery case to the medical journal. They’ve already accepted it! Your article is going to be published soon.”

Athena’s heart raced at the news. This was the recognition she had been working towards, the validation of her skills and hard work.

Kate’s gaze lingered on Athena, taking in the transformation that had unfolded in her. She had witnessed Athena evolve from a hesitant, uncertain version of herself into the confident, skilled surgeon she was today. A wave of happiness washed over her; it felt like a personal victory, especially after the heartbreak she had endured when Athena had once turned her back on medicine for the sake of a man.

The memory still stung. Athena had let her down completely, abandoning her passion and dreams.

But now, it seemed fortune had smiled upon them once more. Athena had returned, and in a stunning display of talent, she had performed an intricate heart surgery that left everyone in awe.

Yet, not all was well. Barbara, once a formidable presence in their department, had been avoiding Athena for days, her previous confidence seemingly evaporated.

Athena stood momentarily speechless, absorbing Kate’s words. She recalled that Kate had mentioned this right after her successful surgery, but at that time, she had been too overwhelmed to fully grasp the significance. She had never anticipated that her operation would be deemed worthy of publication.

Turning to Kate, gratitude filled her heart. “Thank you, Professor,” she said earnestly, her voice soft but firm.

Kate waved her hand dismissively, a warm smile gracing her lips. “Oh, it’s nothing! You’re my student; of course, I’ll do everything I can to support you!”

Just as their conversation flowed, Kate’s phone rang, slicing through the moment. She glanced at the screen, her expression shifting to one of concern. “Excuse me for a moment,” she said, her tone now serious. Athena nodded, waiting patiently by her side.

“What! How could there be a problem?” Kate’s voice turned sharp, and Athena noticed the way her professor’s brow furrowed, a storm brewing behind her calm exterior.

“Alright, I understand!”

Kate’s demeanor shifted, her voice taking on a stern edge. “Listen, Athena’s surgery was flawless. There’s absolutely nothing to hide, so you can review it however you like!”

Athena’s heart raced at the mention of her name. Could it be that the journal had encountered some issue? All she could do was stand there, waiting for Kate to finish her call, anxiety creeping into her thoughts.

Athena smiled, feeling empowered. “Professor, I think I’ll head back to my office now.”

As she exited Kate’s office, Athena made her way back to her own space. Strolling through the hospital garden, she unexpectedly spotted two familiar figures in the distance.

Zaden and Preston?

Preston, she recalled, was Maya’s older brother, which explained his connection to Zaden. But what were they doing here? Zaden had left for work that very morning, and she had personally seen him off. She hadn’t anticipated him visiting the hospital, and Preston had been lingering around her more than usual lately.

Curiosity piqued, Athena considered approaching them but hesitated. The atmosphere felt tense, and something compelled her to stay hidden and observe.

Zaden’s expression was one of irritation as he confronted Preston, his voice cold and clipped. “Tell Maya to back off. If she continues to target my wife, I won’t hesitate to take drastic measures.”

Preston chuckled, a casual smirk playing on his lips as he shoved his hands into his pockets. “Zaden, who would have thought you could be so heartless? Maya only let you go because she had feelings for you.”

Athena continued to watch, intrigued by the unfolding drama, her heart racing with a mix of concern and anticipation.