From Rejected Mate to Luna (Julia White) novel Chapter 27

Chapter 27

Julia’s POV

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As I worked through the questions, a sense of calm gradually replaced my earlier anxiety. Most of the material was exactly what I’d reviewed–medication calculations, treatment protocols, patient assessment techniques.

There were a few innovative scenarios I hadn’t encountered before–complex ethical dilemmas and integrated care approaches that required creative

thinking rather than memorization. But even with these challenges, I found myself drawing on both my formal training and my personal knowledge of

herbal remedies to form comprehensive answers.

By the time I reached the final page, I knew I’d done well. Not perfect, perhaps, ut strong enough to be a serious contender for the scholarship. Despite

Nathan’s attempt to derail me, I’d managed to showcase everything I knew.

Two weeks later.

My hand felt clammy in Daniel’s as we walked toward the bulletin board where the scholarship results would be posted. My heart hammered against my ribs

like a trapped bird seeking escape. I tried to wipe my palm discreetly against my jeans, but Daniel just squeezed my hand tighter, a silent reassurance that

he didn’t mind.

“What time did they say the results would be up?” I asked, my voice higher than usual.

“Nine o clock, Daniel replied, checking his watch. “Which means they should be posted by now.”

I nodded, my mind racing through all the possibilities. This scholarship wasn’t just about academic validation–it was my ticket to freedom. The financial independence it provided would allow me to accept a position far from Star Shadow territory after graduation, beyond Nathan’s reach. I’d spent countless hours studying, preparing for the exam, even as Nathan had tried to intimidate me into dropping out.

“You’ve prepared more than anyone,” Kaia’s voice sounded in my mind, unusually gentle. “Even with Nathan trying to get in your head right before the exam.”

Daniel squeezed my hand again. “No matter what happens,” he said softly, “I’m proud of you. You worked harder than anyone I know.”

As we rounded the corner to the science building, I saw the crowd gathered around the bulletin board. At least twenty students were huddled together, some crying in disappointment while others jumped excitedly or hugged friends in celeration. The knot in my stomach tightened.

“I can’t see anything, I muttered, standing on my tiptoes. Despite my efforts, the crowd of taller students blocked my view completely.

My mind flashed back to Nathan’s warning: “There will be consequences if you win What scholarship, Julia.” I pushed the thought ‘away, refusing to let his

threats rob me of this moment.

“Come on, Damel said, protectively wrapping an arm around my shoulders. “Il lp you get through.“

With Danuel guidance, we navigated through the tight cluster of bodies Student reluctantly made way, some giving me curious glances as Daniel gently but firmly created a path for me

Finally, we reached the bulletin board. My eyes frantically scanned the list, searing for my name among the dozens posted there My heart sank as I couldn’t immediately find it among the listed.

“I don’t see it, I whispered, feeling the sting of disappointment begin to spread rough my chest Had all my hard work been for nothing?

My heartbeat thundered in my ears as I methodically worked my way through the list again, mote carefully this time The names swam before my eyes, and

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15.03 Mon, Jan 26

Chapter 27

for a moment, I worried I might miss my own name even if it was there.

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“Kerp looking.” Kaia urged. “Don’t give up yet.”

Just as despair began to creep in, Daniel’s finger shot out, pointing to the very top of the list.

“There!” he exclaimed, his voice filled with excitement. “Nursing program, first place! Julia White!”

I stared at my name, unable to believe what I was seeing. I blinked, then read it again. And again. Each time, my name remained there, listed as the top scholarship recipient for the nursing program.