From Betrayal to Brilliance Her Rise to a New Life novel Chapter 380

**Chapter 380: Why is Everyone Taking Her Side?**

Ariana’s mind suddenly flickered to Elijah, a name that had become a point of contention in her circle.

“Since Mr. Elijah is back now,” she suggested to Maya, her tone light yet tinged with an underlying seriousness, “you should really consider getting to know him a bit better.”

The moment those words left Ariana’s lips, she could practically see the dark cloud forming over Maya’s head.

Maya’s mood plummeted like a stone. First, her mother had tried to play matchmaker, nudging her toward Elijah, and now even her grandmother seemed to be on Athena’s side, pushing her to spend time with him. It felt as though the entire world was conspiring against her, and she couldn’t shake the thought that Athena had somehow manipulated everyone, perhaps even bribed them with sweet words or false promises.

It was painfully clear: everyone was rooting for Athena.

Maya’s eyes brimmed with tears, the weight of abandonment crashing down upon her like a tidal wave. She turned to Ariana, her voice trembling, “Why is everyone taking Athena’s side? Dad does it. Now you too?”

The betrayal stung deeply. Even her mother, who had once showered her with love and support, seemed to have turned her back on her. The thought was unbearable, a wound too fresh to touch.

In a fit of frustration, Maya spun on her heel, her heart racing as she stormed away, unable to process the crushing blow.

“Maya…” Ariana called after her, a hint of desperation in her voice.

Ariana let out a heavy sigh, her heart aching. She never intended to hurt Maya; her only aim was to mend the rift between the two girls.

Maya marched back to the Rice Residence, her heart heavy with sorrow.

As she entered, her mother Patricia caught sight of her tear-stained face and rushed over, worry etched across her features. “Maya, what happened to you?”

Maya’s heart sank further at the sight of her mother. She remembered all too well how Patricia had tried to set her up with Elijah, and in that moment, all she felt was resentment.

Without a word, she ascended the stairs, seeking refuge in her room.

However, fate had other plans. On her way up, she collided with Preston. He noticed her tear-streaked cheeks and frowned, concern knitting his brow. “Maya, why have you been crying?”

Anger bubbled within her, and recalling their last encounter, she was in no mood to entertain him. With a dismissive snort, she brushed past him, refusing to engage.

Preston stood there, watching her retreat, his worry deepening.

Once downstairs, he found his mother still fretting over Maya’s distress. “Why is Maya crying?” he asked, his tone laced with concern.

“I’m not sure,” Patricia replied, her voice tinged with confusion. “She found out that your father went to visit your grandma at the hospital, and she went along too. But something must have happened because she came home in tears.”

Preston’s mind raced, piecing together the fragments of information.

The hospital, Grandma, and Dad…

Meanwhile, Athena had spent two days recuperating at home, but the time had come for her to return to work. Early that morning, she took a moment to gather her thoughts, dress herself with purpose, and prepare for the day ahead. Just as she was about to leave, Zaden approached her, his expression warm yet concerned. “Do you want me to drive you?”

Athena quickly shook her head, determination etched on her features. “No, it’s fine. I’m already the center of gossip. If you come with me, it’ll only make things worse. I can handle it.”

Zaden respected her decision, recognizing that Athena had her own way of dealing with challenges.

She was a strong, independent woman, after all.

“Maybe by the end of the day, I’ll finally figure out who’s been behind all this drama. Just wait and see!” she declared, her confidence shining through.

Zaden couldn’t help but smile at her resilience. “All right, I’m off to work,” he replied, sharing a warm hug and a gentle kiss before they parted ways, heading off in opposite directions.

Upon arriving at the hospital, Athena felt the weight of the world upon her shoulders as she sensed the stares of her colleagues. Whispers began to circulate the moment she entered, but Athena remained unfazed.

She had anticipated this reaction and kept her gaze fixed ahead as she made her way to her office. Jaylee was already there, her eyes lighting up with curiosity as she rushed over. “Dr. Hall, did you…?”

“You mean about those photos of me and Mr. Elijah?” Athena interjected, her tone a mix of amusement and annoyance.

Jaylee’s eyes widened in surprise, and she nodded emphatically, eager for the latest scoop.