Rich Radiant and Over Him (Alicia and Vincent) novel Chapter 75

He couldn't afford to offend any of them.

Chloe let out a smug little huff, looking almost proud as she snatched a spot that should have gone to someone else.

"Alicia."

The teacher smiled as he called her name. "Let's have a round of applause for these students."

The classroom was dead silent. Someone clapped half-heartedly a couple times, but when no one else joined in, they stopped and shrank back.

What a joke—four spots, four prearranged winners.

Everyone felt the unfairness simmering beneath the surface. Only Alicia had earned her place with real ability; the others had all pulled strings.

Alicia raised her hands and clapped for herself, the lone sound echoing in the room.

The teacher glanced at Alicia, uneasy, but didn't dare say anything. The school's decision was blatantly unjust, but most students would just grit their teeth and swallow it. Ironically, the one who'd always kept her head down—Alicia—was suddenly the only one willing to make a scene.

"If there's nothing else, you're all dismissed," the teacher said hurriedly, eager to escape. "Go home and think about graduation—remember, you're welcome to invite your families." With that, he rushed out the door.

Vincent stood outside, watching Alicia through the window.

The teacher nodded stiffly at Vincent as he passed, then ducked his head and all but ran away.

The students broke out in whispers, gossiping behind their hands.

Vincent stepped into the classroom and took the seat beside Alicia.

Chloe spotted him and chirped, "Hey, future brother-in-law!" But Vincent didn't even glance her way.

"Alicia, I was wrong this time." Vincent apologized quietly.

Alicia ignored him and got up to leave, but Vincent caught her by the wrist, gently tugging her back down. "Mira… she's never suffered a day in her life. If she goes to prison, she won't survive it."

Alicia's throat burned, but she stayed silent.

"I'm begging you," Vincent said, desperation creeping into his voice. "If you let her go, I'll do anything you want. Even if you ask me to break off my engagement to Mina and marry you instead."