Ophelia Gets Thrown Out (Ophelia) novel Chapter 81

Chapter 81

Zoe struggled to maintain her composure. Had she been the one chosen for the performance, this certificate, which she knew could boost her conduct grades, would have been hers.

“Thank you,” Ophelia replied graciously, her poise only deepening Zoe’s resentment.

The placid expression on Zoe’s face nearly cracked.

“You know, I truly admire you,” Zoe said, her voice laced with feigned humility as her eyes welled with manufactured tears.” It’s just a shame I lack the talent to bring honor to the Rowle family.”

“There’s no need for that,” Ophelia comforted, though her words carried a subtle edge. “I’ll be here to contribute from now on. Besides, our brothers and Owen have already set such high standards.”

Zoe’s face went ghostly white. Her self-deprecating remark had been a strategic play for reassurance, but Ophelia’s matter- of-fact agreement felt like a public dismissal of her worth.

“And you shouldn’t pressure yourself,” Ophelia added with apparent kindness. “As long as you’ve tried your best, that’s what matters.”

The condescending advice twisted like a knife, and Zoe bit her lip hard, fighting back frustrated tears. Ophelia had nearly succeeded in making her break down right there.

A faint, mocking smile played on Ophelia’s lips as she observed Zoe’s struggle.

‘What now? I only agreed with what she said. Is she still not satisfied?’ she thought.

Recognizing the unspoken taunt, Zoe trembled with suppressed fury.

“Zoe, dear, she’s right. You really mustn’t be so hard on yourself. You have your own strengths too,” Victoria chimed in, though her well-intentioned words provided little comfort.

Noticing Zoe’s dejection, Adrian added gently, “There’s no need to compare. You’re both Rowle children, each exceptional in your own ways.”

Each word felt like a fresh wound. Zoe lowered her head to conceal the resentment burning in her eyes. “I’ll keep working hard, Mom and Dad,” she murmured, her voice the picture of obedience.

Victoria reached out to smooth Zoe’s hair affectionately. “You have always been so diligent and well-mannered. Your grades have consistently been among the top of her class.”

Zoe leaned into the embrace, portraying perfect devotion while her hidden gaze darkened with bitterness.

‘So what if Ophelia gets a moment in the spotlight?’ she consoled herself. ‘My academic record is far superior to hers.’ “Mom, Dad, I’m going to head up to my room and rest,” Ophelia said, no longer interested in witnessing Zoe’s performance. “Of course, you must be tired. Go and get some sleep,” Victoria replied, her eyes full of warmth.

With a faint, knowing smile, Ophelia ascended the staircase.

Once Ophelia had gone, Zoe saw no reason to remain. “I should go review my lessons as well,” she announced, rising gracefully. “The monthly exams are coming up soon.”

She was determined to prove, once the new term began, exactly which daughter deserved the family’s pride.

“Don’t overwork yourself,” Victoria urged gently, patting Zoe’s hand.

Zoe stood and exchanged a discreet glance with Chloe, who responded with an almost imperceptible nod.

Together, they left the living room, one after the other,

After Zoe left, Adrian found himself drawn back to Ophelia’s certificate.

Victoria watched him with amusement. “We’ve seen plenty of certificates from the kids over the years. Why are you so taken with this one?”

“Those were their achievements,” Adrian said, his voice warm with pride. “This is Ophelia’s.”

There was a weight to his words, a quiet acknowledgment of all the milestones they’d missed during the years Ophelia

hadn’t been with them.

Victoria’s eyes softened. “The certificate is lovely, but let’s not forget. It’s Ophelia herself who’s truly special.”

Adrian considered this, then nodded slowly. “You’re right about that.”

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