Chapter 4

From that day on, Serena began to study with Julian even more conspicuously.

Their discussions were often loud; I could hear them even with headphones on.

I had also started studying seriously, though I was still in the phase of grasping basic concepts.

Julian seemed unable to stand seeing me focus.

He came over, waving a textbook where Serena had just highlighted key points, trying to provoke me.

"Oh, Ashley's finally studying, too? How's it going, just trying to figure it out on your own?

"I have Serena's notes here with all the important bits highlighted. I could lend them to you for reference."

He waved the book around, a sneer on his face.

"Oh, I apologize. I forgot. Serena isn't willing to teach you anymore.

"So, I guess I can't lend you these materials for now."

Julian's voice was sharp and grating, attracting the attention of many classmates, who glanced over at me.

Even Serena, who usually paid no mind to such things, cast a cold look my way.

I propped my chin on my hand, asking him with amusement,

"Do you have this much time to worry about how others study? Why don't you check your own single-digit physics score first?"

Julian's face flushed red, embarrassed and furious.

Serena walked over and tapped my desk.

"Care to step outside and talk?"

Before I could refuse, she grabbed my wrist and pulled me out of the classroom.

Serena led me to the hallway, her lips pressed into a thin line.

"If you're willing to accept Julian, I can continue to tutor you."

Since I fired Serena, I heard she'd started working part-time in the cafeteria again.

It seemed she was short on cash and was trying to get money from me again.

She really thought I was a big idiot.

"No, thanks."

I refused without hesitation.

Serena's eyes flared with anger. She grabbed my shoulders, her grip tight, and spat,

"Things were fine before, weren't they? I've tutored you for three years. Or is it because you mind Julian and I are too close?

"Ashley, are you jealous, or are you just playing hard to get?"

Quite a few students had gathered, watching Serena's outburst, whispering and pointing at us.

Serena was a girl, so I couldn't just shake her off. I could only try to reason with her.

"I genuinely don't need you anymore. Just let go!"

Serena's eyes were fixed on me, forcing me to give her the answer she wanted.

That obsessive gaze reminded me of the Serena who had poisoned me and kicked my stomach in my previous life.

Sure enough, the seeds of extreme violence were already evident then.

But back then, I saw her through rose-tinted glasses, and all her flaws were overlooked.

Just then, someone came over and tapped Serena's shoulder.

"Hey, Serena, the 'Academic Star,' if someone says they don't need your tutoring anymore, isn't it kind of pathetic to keep hounding them for money?"

I looked over, stunned.

It was Blair, my deskmate, known for being a cold beauty.