The Platonic Trap novel Chapter 21

Celia respectfully addressed the faculty member as "Professor."

In reality, due to the specific focus of her research, the professor actually knew very little about her thesis topic. Celia had completed the entire paper independently.

So it wasn't a matter of incompetence on the professor's part, just blatant favoritism.

Perhaps it was because academics always favored "good students," and Celia hardly fit that traditional mold.

Armed with time and money, she had lived off-campus in a private apartment for her entire four years at Capital University, keeping to herself and making few friends.

Because of this, rumors swirled that she hadn't gotten into the university on merit, but because the Stafford Family had donated three academic buildings.

Yet, her naturally sweet and compliant demeanor toward the faculty gave this professor the illusion that she could be easily pushed around.

Had it been anyone else's paper, Celia wouldn't have minded doing a favor to review and edit it; it was an effortless task for her.

But when it came to Evelyn Morgan, Celia had absolutely no desire to play nice.

"I'm sorry, Professor," Celia replied, her voice still perfectly polite but firm in its refusal. "But my puppy is really important to me."

"Celia," the professor said, pushing up her glasses, the lenses catching a cold gleam of light. "It's just a little guidance. Evelyn comes from a disadvantaged background, so she lacks practical insight. Since you have the ability, shouldn't you help her out?"

*Knock, knock.*

Before Celia could say another word, the sound echoed from the door.

"Come in."

Evelyn appeared in the doorway, dressed in neat, modest clothing.

She glanced at Celia first before politely greeting the professor. "Professor, I'm here."

Noticing Celia's silence, Evelyn's face fell.

Taking a deep breath, Evelyn looked up at her. "Ms. Stafford, I came here today to ask for academic advice. Could you please put aside your personal feelings and give me a serious answer?"

Celia raised an eyebrow, her gaze sweeping over Evelyn.

Rumor had it that Evelyn was poor, constantly wearing faded, well-worn clothes.

But at a single glance, Celia noted the understated luxury brand she was wearing, as well as the incredibly expensive custom bracelet resting on her wrist.

Talbot Forrester was truly putting his money where his mouth was—pampering his lover to the fullest.

—It just would have been much better if he wasn't doing it with the funds she had invested into the Forrester Group.

"Celia," the professor's face clouded with disapproval, her tone darkening. "Don't let one excellent grade go to your head. If Evelyn had your privileges, she wouldn't need your help."