Ophelia Gets Thrown Out (Ophelia) novel Chapter 17

**Paths Lead To Purpose — Kevin Masters**
**Chapter 17**

As Ophelia savored the last bite of her dessert, a sense of satisfaction washed over her. She felt as if she had expressed everything that needed to be said. The sweet taste lingered on her palate, mingling with the weight of the conversation that had unfolded.

Owen, ever the loyal companion, insisted on accompanying her to the elevator. Zoe trailed behind them, her concern feigned but palpable, as she chimed in with her usual mix of condescension and sisterly advice. “Ophelia, having Mr. Blackwell personally oversee your transfer to Dunhollow University is an extraordinary opportunity,” she said, her voice laced with a hint of superiority.

“But you should know that Dunhollow’s courses are notorious for their rapid pace. You really need to buckle down; don’t let Mr. Blackwell down, and certainly, don’t embarrass the Rowle family.”

Ophelia shot her a frosty look, her eyes narrowing slightly as she let out a dismissive snort. “Zoe, are you genuinely worried about my academic performance?”

Zoe nodded, her expression serious. “Absolutely. Our brothers were legends in their own right at school. Each one of them topped their department, while I’ve consistently ranked in the top five of my year. You, on the other hand, studied at an ordinary university.”

“Even if you excelled there, it pales in comparison to what you’ll face at Dunhollow. Maybe we should ask Mom to hire you a tutor?”

A spark of fierce confidence ignited in Ophelia’s eyes as she raised her chin defiantly, her voice brimming with pride. “No need for that. I’ve already mastered most of the university curriculum on my own.”

“You should focus on your own studies, Zoe. I’ve never settled for second place in anything since childhood, and that streak won’t change at Dunhollow University.”

For Ophelia, studying was an effortless endeavor. She never felt the need to hold back, which was precisely why she had always claimed the top spot. The thought of second place bored her.

Zoe clenched her jaw, frustration bubbling beneath the surface at her sister’s arrogance. “Ophelia, you are incredibly full of yourself. Dunhollow University is filled with the best students from all over. You’re coming from an average college; of course, your grades won’t measure up. Stop living in a fantasy and start studying early.”

“How about we make a bet?” Ophelia suggested lazily, clearly fatigued by Zoe’s incessant chatter.

“A bet?” Zoe blinked, caught off guard by the unexpected challenge.

Owen’s interest piqued, and he leaned in, intrigued. “You two are betting? On what? Count me in; I’ll be the impartial witness.”

With a confident smile, Ophelia proposed, “Let’s wager on the results of our first exams. Whoever ranks higher in their department or scores better in the overall university ranking wins. You can choose which one.”

“Deal,” Zoe said, a smug smile spreading across her face.

‘Why wouldn’t I agree to a free designer bag?’ she thought, her confidence soaring.

“Fantastic. Owen, you’ll be our witness,” Ophelia declared, her voice light and playful, as if the stakes were merely a game.

It seemed she had found a perfect excuse to elevate the price of next season’s handbag; after all, she would have a willing participant to foot the bill.

“Understood. I’ll be the witness. Neither of you can back out now,” Owen said eagerly, amusement dancing in his eyes. He couldn’t help but think about sharing this little betting escapade with his older brothers later; perhaps they could even start a betting pool of their own.

The elevator doors opened, and Zoe stepped out first, her mind racing with thoughts of victory. Owen followed Ophelia back to her room, still eager to soak up more of her IT wisdom.

As they strolled down the hallway, Owen exclaimed, “Ophelia, if you really make it to Dunhollow University, you’ll have the chance to meet Miles and Dylan. They’re the biggest stars on campus; everyone is absolutely obsessed with them!”