Too Late to Hold Me Back novel Chapter 154

After breakfast, they escorted Mira to school.

Afterward, Brayden stayed hidden on campus just in case, while Ronan Creed returned to guard the apartment, keeping in constant contact.

Given the fallout from yesterday, Shane would likely lay low for a few days, but the Mercer family was a completely different story.

As soon as Mira stepped into the classroom, she heard a group huddled together, gossiping about the Mercers.

She didn't even need to look to know it was Mara's usual clique.

Mira had no intention of entertaining them and headed straight for her seat.

"Her own sister is critically ill and she won't even help her. What kind of monster does that?"

"No wonder her parents kicked her out. She’s completely heartless."

"So what if she's a big star? She has zero morals."

...

Their comments grew increasingly vicious as they pointed fingers in Mira's direction.

Mira was about to confront them, but Liora Bennett beat her to it, completely furious. "Shut your mouths! You have no idea what you're talking about, so stop spouting absolute garbage."

"We're just stating the facts."

"Looks like you two are cut from the same cloth."

Celine Ward stepped up and grabbed Liora's arm. "Why are you even trying? You can't win an argument against a pack of rabid dogs."

"Who are you calling dogs?"

"If the collar fits, wear it."

"Keep spreading those rumors and see what happens!"

Mira had no patience to bicker with these idiots. She simply clenched her fists.

"We'll say whatever we—"

Before the girl could finish her sentence, Mira grabbed a handful of her hair and delivered two ringing slaps across her face.

The group stood frozen in shock. None of them had expected Mira to actually throw hands.

"She's attacking her!"

Harvey Rivers had pulled them aside and handed them fifty bucks each to keep their mouths shut.

"You started this mess. Snitching to the teacher won't do you any good—you'll end up getting punished too. Isn't cold hard cash a better deal?"

Catching Mira's gaze, he gave her a subtle wink, signaling that it was handled.

Mira shot him a quick hand gesture in return, acknowledging that she owed him a favor.

Fine by her. It saved her a tedious lecture.

Truthfully, she had fully braced herself to be chewed out by the staff.

Liora whispered to Celine, "Who knew the rich boy was so good at smoothing things over? He's got real potential as a fixer."

Celine glanced at Harvey and muttered back, "His sister is a constant walking disaster. He's had plenty of practice."

The chaotic spectacle finally died down, and Mira returned to her seat.

Right before class started, Elara leaned in close to Mira's ear.

"Are you going to be okay after hitting them?"