Ch. 381..390

Chapter 381

Peter and Jessica initially thought Alistair was just living off Audrey. They accepted him because he took good care of Audrey and willingly did household chores.

After watching the show today, they discovered he was a popular idol, almost becoming a big star. Moreover, his parents appeared very dignified, certainly not from an ordinary family.

Audrey was a bit surprised. She asked, "Dad, why are you suddenly asking this?"

Peter didn't use to care about this at all, and he never asked about Alistair's family. He sighed and said, "When we took your mom to the hospital today, Alistair's dad made a phone call, and the director himself came over.

"And that director called his dad something like Mr. Hayes." He paused momentarily and, with concern in his voice, said, "Audrey, we always thought you married into an ordinary family.

"We never wanted more as long as you were happy. But now it seems Alistair's family is quite outstanding. Will they look down on you?"

Jessica and Peter led a simple life, with their only regret being about Audrey, who was accidentally swapped at birth. They didn't hope to climb the social ladder through Audrey's marriage but wanted her to live without worries.

Alistair's prominent family background made them anxious, fearing Audrey might face hardships after marriage and not dare speak up.

Audrey sensed the unspoken worry in Peter's words and felt deeply touched. Her eyes became misty, and she softly said, "Dad, don't worry. Alistair's family background is indeed exceptional, but I'm marrying him, not his family.

"I won't allow myself to be mistreated."

Peter still felt a bit uneasy and sighed, saying, "Audrey, don't hesitate. If they ever dare to bully you, just divorce him and come back home. As I've always said, your mom and I can still support you."

Audrey chuckled lightly and replied, "I understand. Thank you, Dad." After finishing the call, she walked out of Talaris High School.

Alistair was leaning against the car, quietly waiting for Audrey. As soon as Audrey came out, Alistair took several steps forward and opened his arms wide.

Seeing the gentle expression on Alistair's face, Audrey felt a mix of emotions inside her. She stepped forward and hugged him, snuggling into his warm, broad chest. But her face had no joy, only a hint of sadness.

Audrey used to think she was strong and independent enough to maintain her relationship with Alistair without any outside complications.

But after what happened today, she realized that no matter how hard she tried, the gap between her and

Alistair was there from the start net

Fortunately, Alistair had always been determined to bridge that gap to reach her.

Now, they were already inseparable; no matter how she tried to separate them, she couldn't. And if she ever thought she wasn't good enough for Alistain which would mean undervaluing all his efforts and dedication over time.

With this thought, Audrey had a newfound clarity. She was no longer conflicted but instead smiled warmly. She took Alistair's hand firmly and said, "Honey, let's go home."

Alistair looked at Audrey carefully, making sure she didn't seem upset before he felt relieved. He didn't ask anything, he took off his jacket, draped it over her shoulders, and wrapped his arm around her waist as they got into the car.

Audrey was really tired and soon fell into a deep sleep after getting in the car.

Seeing her asleep, Alistair gently patted the seat in front and softly said, "Drive a little slower."

The driver nodded silently, slowed down, and raised the partition to avoid disturbing them.

In the glow of the passing streetlights outside the window, Alistair gently gazed at the sleeping Audrey.

For a moment, the car was filled with a warm silence.

 

Chapter 382

Unlike Audrey's peaceful silence, Dominic watched a replay with a fierce scowl. Injured from the car accident, he had been stuck in the hospital all these days.

He wouldn't have known that the second round of Supergalactic Idol had already started if he hadn't overheard the nurses talking.

Hearing that Audrey was on the show, he couldn't wait to start the livestream, eager to see her shine.

Unexpectedly, he not only saw Audrey's stunning beauty but also Alistair who held her hand and announced their marriage to everyone online.

The sight of their sweet declarations completely shocked Dominic. In his rage, he smashed the tablet, causing his wounds to reopen and blood to flow profusely. Yet he seemed unaware of the pain.

At this moment, Dominic's mind was filled with the sweet blessings of the fans who supported the couple Audrey and Alistair online. He was insanely jealous.

He thought, 'Why? Why that pretty boy? He is just a washed-up singer who has written one song. How could he possibly compare to me? Audrey could only be mine. No one is allowed to take her from me.'

*****

When Audrey woke up the next day, she was in clean and comfortable pajamas, with her makeup completely removed. The spot next to her was empty, clearly showing Alistair was already up.

Audrey had slept really well, shaking off the exhaustion from the past few days. She stretched lazily and was just about to get out of bed when she heard her phone ringing.

She reached over to check her phone and smiled when she saw it was a call from Violet. She said, "Hey, Violet."

"Don't call me that," Violet said. Her voice was full of sass as she said, "You're so heartless."

Audrey felt wronged. She asked, "How am I heartless?" She didn't know that she had done anything wrong.

Violet shouted, "You even ask!" She huffed, obviously upset. She said, "I thought you were my best friend. But then you joined Supergalactic Idol and didn't tell me.

"I only found out by catching a livestream on someone else's phone. How could you do that to me?"

Hearing this, Audrey couldn't help but feel a little guilty. She touched the tip of her nose and sincerely apologized, "I'm sorry, Violet.

"I didn't mean not to tell you, but you were in the middle of a crucial experiment, and I didn't want to bother you with something so minor."

Violet wasn't buying it. She said, "Is supporting you a small thing? To be honest, you don't think of me as one of your own. I can tell."

Audrey quickly tried to comfort her, "How could that be? You're my only friend. If you're not one of my own, then who is? It's my fault this time.

"Next time, I'll treat you to a drink to make it up to you, okay? Give me a break." Violet smiled. Her tone finally softened as she said, "Once isn't enough."

Audrey replied, "Alright, as many drinks as you want, that's how many times we'll go."

Hearing Audrey's words finally made Violet calm down. But she didn't plan to let Audrey off that easily. Her tone remained severe as she said, "Audrey, there's one more very important thing."

Audrey asked, "What is it?" She was completely confused.

Violet huffed unhappily. She said, "About your man. How long were you planning to keep me in the dark?"

Audrey secretty grumbled to herself, 'My man? Who? Alistair? Did Violet know Alistair is Mr. Hayes? Last time, she even joked that if Mr.

Hayes had time for love, why was

my pretty boy too busy to show up?

QUMS

'Now that the truth is out, how does she feel?' Afraid that Violet might regain her senses and want to tear her apart, Audrey decided to confess.

But Violet, excited, spoke first, "How could you not tell me that your husband is Jason? I thought there were no secrets between us. I'm so disappointed in you, Audrey."

Audrey, words at the tip of her tongue, was stunned. She thought, 'It seems Violet only knows that Alistair is Jason. She is unaware that Alistair is also Mr. Hayes, the well-known figure of Willowdale.'

Without waiting for Audrey to speak, Violet excitedly continued, "I'm a die-hard fan of Jason. I finally met

my idol, yet I didn't get a photo with him. What is more, I tried to steal his wife right in front of him."

As she spoke, she became increasingly upset and began to wail, "How can I face

my fellow fans now? I don't even dare to go online."

Audrey replied, "It's not that serious." She thought with a heavy heart, 'She is already this angry just knowing Alistair is Jason. What if she finds out Alistair has another identity? Would she be even angrier?

Chapter 383

Violet didn't notice the guilty tone in Audrey's voice. She was lost in her regret. She clutched her heart with distress as she said, "How is it not serious? I'd be paraded around in shame in the fangirl circles for this kind of behavior."

Audrey gave an awkward chuckle and said, "I'm sorry, but I had no idea he was Jason beforehand."

"Do you think I can still trust you?" Violet scoffed, sounding displeased, "This world where only I face social death, let it be destroyed."

Hearing her dramatic words, Audrey couldn't help but laugh.

Violet said, "How can you still laugh?" She got even more upset. She slapped her thigh and said, "You need to make it up to me, or I won't forgive you."

Knowing Violet was upset, Audrey was happy to go along and asked, "Alright, what do you want as compensation?"

"I want Jason's autograph," Violet declared boldly. The next moment, she feared she might be asking for too much, she cautiously asked, "Is that okay?"

Audrey thought, 'Why wouldn't it be okay?' She chuckled and replied, "Sure, I can get him to sign it for you, as many as you need."

Surprisingly, Violet wasn't upset but excitedly said, "That won't do. I only need one. Don't tire out my idol."

Audrey replied, "Violet, you've changed." She added inside, 'You're no longer that thoughtful friend who always looked out for your friends.'

Violet confidently said, "I just upset my idol. Shouldn't I try to make it right?"

Audrey smiled with resignation and didn't argue.

Thinking about getting Jason's autograph soon, Violet was thrilled. With her inner gossip spirit awakened, she asked, "Honestly, Audrey, did you have no clue your husband is Jason beforehand?"

Audrey admitted, "Honestly, I didn't know."

Violet didn't believe it and said defiantly, "I don't buy it. You once declared you'd only ever marry Jason. Would you agree to a quick marriage with him if you didn't know who he was?"

Audrey replied, "When I rushed into marriage with him, it was purely because of his looks. Besides, when did I ever say something like that? I don't remember at all."

Such a dramatic statement seemed more like something Violet would say.

Violet let out a cold laugh and said, "I knew you wouldn't admit it. Do you remember Luke, the heartthrob, who used to chase after you?"

"I remember," Audrey said through clenched teeth. That memory resurfaced after she recently saw Sienna, which brought back the darkest time of her school days.

Luke had persistently annoyed Audrey from middle school through high school like a pesky patch of glue. Audrey wondered what Sienna saw in Luke. Audrey doubted, 'But what's this got to do with my saying I will marry Jason?' Violet said, "Do you remember how you first turned down Luke's confession?" Audrey'd rejected Luke so many times that the memories blurred together. But with Violet's reminder, the memories slowly resurfaced.

Luke first confessed to Audrey when she had just started middle school. He saw her for the first time and immediately said he liked her, but she politely declined right away.

But Luke was persistent and shameless. He harassed Audrey, bought her breakfast and delivered milk every morning, and tried to engineer accidental meetings. The rumors at school kept escalating.

Fed up, when Luke cornered Audrey at the school gate again, insisting on walking

her home, she finally spoke up, "I only admire guys with real talent.

"Other than having a barely decent face, your grades are the worst. There's nothing about you I like."

At that moment, everyone watching was shocked, and even Luke, who always prided himself on his looks, almost broke down in tears.

His face was always popular with the girls, but to Audrey, it was just average. For a moment, Luke's pride took a heavy blow and his eyes reddened. Yet he said, "You like

outstanding guys, I'll work hard for you."

Back then, Audrey replied, "There's no need." Looking at Luke without expression, she continued, "Intelligence is innate. If you can't even understand my rejection and insist on misunderstanding me, you must have water in your brain.

"I like guys like Jason, who are both talented and smart. Even if I date someone,

it'll only be Jason."

Chapter 384

Rejected in front of everyone, Luke lost his composure. He immediately mocked Audrey, "I thought a good student like you would be different, but you're just as superficial as everyone else."

The more he talked, the angrier he became. He continued, "That Jason doesn't even dare to show his face. He's only written one song, yet you're all going crazy over him."

Seeing how easily Luke let his guard down, Audrey simply admitted she was that vain. She said, "If I'm getting married, it's only to Jason."

Back then, Audrey just said it offhandedly. Who would've thought that a random comment would become a reality now? No wonder Violet didn't believe Audrey hadn't been planning something with Jason all along.

Having no idea how to explain it, Audrey could only change the topic, asking Violet how her blind date went.

When her blind date was mentioned, Violet immediately forgot to keep questioning Audrey. Exasperated, she vented to Audrey, "Just talking about this makes me angry.

"I've never met such a bizarre person in my entire life. I don't know what bad luck I had to run into him. I'm telling you, we're just not compatible at all."

Audrey laughed. She wondered what the man could have done to irritate Violet so much.

Out of curiosity, she said, "Sounds like there's a story here. What did you guys discuss that day? Tell me, and maybe I can give you some advice."

Violet was speechless. She suspected what Audrey wanted to say was: "Tell me so I can have a good laugh." She gritted her teeth and said, "He's stuck in a teenage phase, plus he's such a hipster and a huge narcissist.

"I've never seen anyone like him, posting hundreds of updates on Instagram every day, two-thirds of which are selfies showing off his abs. In short, it's indescribable. I never want to go on a blind date again."

Audrey clicked her tongue in amazement and casually asked, "That's so odd. Why didn't you block him instead of checking his Instagram?"

Violet suddenly paused. Her lips twitched a bit. After a moment, she stuttered

slightly and said, "Since my family introduced him, it's not cool to block him.

"Besides, if my mom knew, I wouldn't get any peace. Better to keep him there and check once in a while, just as a little spice in life."

Violet didn't give Audrey a chance to ask more questions. She made an excuse Alright, I can't talk anymore. Someone's calling me. I'll hang up now. After saying this, she quickly hung up.

Audrey's eyes gleamed with interest. After so many years, she considered herself

to know Violet pretty well. Violet only got flustered like that when she had something to hide.

Audrey's intuition told her that Violet didn't dislike her blind date as much as she pretended to. As for how far things would go between them, Audrey couldn't say.

Audrey thought, 'Maybe Violet could spark something special with that unusual blind date.' She chuckled and got up to wash up. After changing her clothes, she headed to Sunny's room first.

Sunny was also exhausted yesterday and still hadn't woken up.

Audrey quietly left the room and looked around the house but couldn't find Alistair. She thought, 'It's Saturday, so he probably doesn't go to work. Does he go swimming?'

Thinking that, Audrey went back upstairs on her own. As she reached the corner, she heard voices from the walk-in closet. Curious, she moved closer and saw that the door was half-open.

Alistair was facing away from the entrance, talking to someone on video chat.

Logan's voice came through the phone, saying, "The outfit you just tried on is too plain. It looked like you were going to a business meeting-it's got no personality.

"Trust me, switch to the black shirt with the subtle glitter, and don't go with that suit. It's too old-fashioned, Pick a color that's a bit more youthful, like magenta. It'll definitely suit your skin tone. And skip the tie.

swnov

"Remember, don't button your shirt up all the way like you're at work. Leave a

couple of buttons open, and style your hair a bit."

 

Chapter 385

While listening, Alistair's face darkened. His eyebrows furrowed, and he looked completely dismissive. He said, "What kind of taste is that? It's so tacky."

Logan was not having it, shouting back, "What? You're calling me tacky? Come on, I'm the fashion icon of Willowdale."

He proudly said, "So many people are waiting for my styling advice, but I'm not interested. Don't be ungrateful. Trust me, you'll impress everyone if you wear what I choose."

Alistair gave Logan a silent glance. His lips curled into a faint smile, and he said, "Alright, I'll choose for myself." After hanging up, he was just about to dress himself when he noticed Audrey walking in.

Audrey leaned against the wardrobe and asked curiously, "Why are you picking out clothes? Is there an important event you're attending?"

Alistair nodded and said, "Yes."

Audrey thought it might be a business event, but then she heard Alistair say, "I plan to take my parents to meet yours today for a formal introduction."

Alistair thought, 'After meeting the parents and making it official, there's no denying our relationship anymore.'

Upon hearing this, Audrey's hand suddenly stopped picking out clothes for Alistair. She looked slightly surprised. She raised an eyebrow and asked, "What's the sudden rush?"

Alistair patiently replied, "My parents suggested the formal meeting. We got married too quickly, without your parents' approval. Now that my parents are here, we must follow the proper formalities."

Most importantly, Alistair couldn't let Audrey's parents think he didn't appreciate Audrey.

Hearing that Alistair's parents wanted to arrange the meeting, Audrey felt deeply moved.

She understood that Francis and Evelyn were considerate not because they especially liked or approved of her but because they cherished Alistair and cared for what mattered to him.

Thinking of this, she suddenly remembered the surprise she had prepared for Alistair. "Wait a moment," She gave Alistair a mysterious smile and said, "I have a gift for you."

Audrey hurried back to her room and retrieved a gift bag hidden behind the vanity. Then, she brought it to the closet and handed it over to Alistair She said, "It's such an important day, how about wearing this outfit?"

Alistair's eyes sparkled with anticipation as he opened the gift bag.

Inside was an ash-gray suit, completely unlike his usual style. It appeared pretty

special, with a stylish brooch adorning the chest pocket.

The fabric was firm yet comfortable, with a unique cut and design, evidently a thoughtfully crafted exclusive piece.

Alistair's eyes brimmed with delight. He asked affectionately, "When did you buy this for me?"

Hearing this, Audrey suddenly

flushed. She thought, 'It is all Violet's fault for inexplicably giving me sexy nightwear. What was supposed to be a surprise became a shock, so it took her so long to give it to him.

Cursing Violet in her mind, Audrey gritted her teeth and said, "The previous nightwear was just a misunderstanding. This is the real surprise I prepared for you."

She didn't want Alistair to think she was the kind of person who would try to win him over with sexy nightwear as if she were some overly needy person.

But looking at Alistair's stunningly handsome face, Audrey felt a bit guilty. She admitted she could be a bit flirty sometimes. The moment she saw Alistair, her mind would be flooded with naughty thoughts.

Not knowing what Audrey was thinking, Alistair said sincerely, "I like both of these surprises."

Audrey's face turned red again despite her best efforts to stay composed.

 

Chapter 386

Not wanting to continue the conversation, Audrey urged Alistair to quickly put on the clothes so she could see if they fit. If not, they could adjust them as soon as possible.

Alistair took off his coat in front of Audrey and deliberately chose a new white shirt.

Seeing the soft shirt fabric slide over Alistair's toned abs, Audrey couldn't help but swallow.

Seeing this, Alistair chuckled softly and teased, "Honey, could you help me put on my jacket?"

Audrey wanted to refuse. But the outfit held special meaning, she didn't want to miss the chance to put it on Alistair herself.

After hesitating for a couple of seconds, Audrey overcame her shyness. She turned around and, barefoot, held the suit's collar up for Alistair.

Alistair glanced at himself in the mirror. Although the outfit seemed flashy and luxurious, there was a strange harmony in him. Alistair felt it was tailored just for him, every inch fitting perfectly.

Watching Alistair wear the clothes she designed, Audrey's eyes were filled with wonder. She knew Alistair was the perfect model; tall, long-legged, and handsome, he made everything look great.

But wearing this suit seemed to elevate Alistair instantly, making him look even more refined and sophisticated. He was just too handsome.

With perfect proportions like a model straight out of a magazine, what captivated people more was his unique, aloof, yet striking presence.

Audrey gazed at Alistair, completely captivated by his looks, unable to look away.

Alistair lifted his hand to pick up a tie, slowly tying it in front of the mirror. His slender fingers wrapped around the tie. The overhead light made his already exquisite features look even more stunning.

Under his long, thick lashes, his deep, captivating eyes held an enticing magic.

Audrey stared at Alistair. Her mind drifted to scenes in romantic movies where the male and female leads had moments in the closet.

Audrey thought, 'Perfect timing and setting. It is a perfect place.' As if driven by an unseen force, she suddenly pulled Alistair's tie.

She tilted her head slightly, her gaze tracing Alistair's cool, pale skin under the light, finally settling on his inviting lips. As if caught by an irresistible spell, her heart beat loudly.

เอนซ์

Alistair looked at Audrey with a confused expression and asked, "What's wrong?" His deep, rich voice was the perfect catalyst for romance.

Audrey unconsciously swallowed, fixating on Alistair's attractive Adam's apple,

and stood on her toes to kiss him.

Alistair suddenly froze. His face showed a mix of surprise and happiness as he looked at Audrey.

But that wasn't all.

Audrey took a deep breath. Then she

placed her hands on Alistair's

shoulders and whispered in his ear,

"Honey, want to try something thrilling?"

Alistair felt as if fireworks were going off in his mind.

*****

Talaris High School's gossip page was buzzing with the news about Nathan, and

his two sidekicks being expelled.

The post read: [Breaking News: The

expulsion of Nathan and his

swnovel.ne

sidekicks is linked to none other than Miles, the underdog from 7

As soon as the post went up, comments started pouring in.

Comment 1: [Seriously? Can Miles really do that?]

Comment 2: [No way, Miles is just a poor kid with no connections. How could he possibly take on Nathan?]

The poster replied: [Believe it or not, this is firsthand info. Jasper lost his job for favoring Nathan and crossing Miles.]

Comment 5: [This is getting crazier. If Miles pulled this off, wouldn't the school treat him like a VIP?]

Comment 6: [Nathan's dad is on the school board. What's so special about Miles?]

 

Chapter 387

The students talked for a long time, but no one understood the whole story, dismissing it as someone trying to grab attention.

But some intelligent folks warned everyone not to mess with Miles in case they end up like Nathan.

Seeing these comments, those who used to look down on Miles quickly deleted their insulting posts, afraid of being involved.

Meanwhile, the teachers in the office were quietly discussing the matter.

A young male teacher was browsing the student forums and watching the heated discussions. He swiveled to whisper to his colleague, "I swear, even I'm dying to know why this happened.

"Mr. Caldwell usually spoils his son, letting Nathan do whatever he wants. Yet this time, Mr. Caldwell made Nathan drop out as an ordinary student and even paid a lot of money, which is strange."

Another teacher added, "Maybe Mr. Caldwell thought it'd be best to settle things quietly because Nathan bullied Miles, and he didn't want it to escalate."

One teacher said, "That might work on someone naive, but hasn't Nathan bullied enough people in the past six months? He even drove a girl to nearly jump off a building, and nothing happened about it in the end."

One teacher said, "But Miles doesn't appear to have any impressive background."

To these teachers, Miles was once known as a prodigy who suddenly lost interest in school. His grades dropped significantly, and his family struggled, with both parents working basic jobs.

These teachers wondered, 'If Nathan upsets someone like Miles, wouldn't Xander, as he usually does, press the school to protect Nathan?' They discussed the matter for a long time but didn't come to any conclusions.

Just then, the homeroom teacher of Class 7, Sarah, walked in carrying a canvas bag.

Seeing Sarah, a young girl said, "Sarah is here. She's Miles' homeroom teacher. Maybe she knows something. Let's ask her."

They thought if Miles actually had some strong connections, they should assess the situation and give him more attention.

A few female teachers immediately gathered around Sarah, bombarding her with questions.

Caught off guard, Sarah forced a smile and said evasively, "I have no idea. I was on leave yesterday."

It was only on her way to work today, while browsing the gossip page out of boredom, that she got the gist of what happened. She knew just as little as the other teachers.

But she always trusted Miles and said, "Even if I don't know the full story, Miles is

a good kid with strong values. He's not the type to stir up trouble on purpose.

"This time, it's probably Nathan's fault, and the school is just handling Nathan according to the rules. It's not like Miles is using any influence to bully others."

Hearing this, Simon couldn't help but snort, scoffing, "Ms. Kim, you're too biased Miles has caused trouble

more than once recently. Only in your eyes is he still a stellar student."

"What did he do?" Sarah asked patiently.

Simon's eyes flashed with disdain. He said, "Have you all forgotten how he caused a scene on the forum last time?"

Before Sarah could speak, Simon quickly added, "That's not it. He even shamelessly bragged that he'd make it to the top ten in this month's exams."

Simon chuckled. His eyes were filled with scorn and contempt. He

continued, "In my opinion, Miles

knows he doesn't have a shot at the

SATS, so he's stirring up trouble, making everyone uneasy.

"He is like a bad apple. He should've been expelled a long time ago."

Hearing these malicious speculations, Sarah frowned deeply. She found it difficult

to believe that such words came from a teacher.

Sarah didn't know that Simon had a bet with Miles. She sighed helplessly and

said, "Mr. Taylor, he's just a kid. Don't take it to heart..."

Before Sarah could finish her sentence, Simon saw the grade leader, Oliver, walk in with the results of this month's exams.

 

Chapter 388

Simon wasn't paying any attention to what Sarah was saying. All he could think about was putting Miles in his place. After all, Miles was the only underachiever he'd ever taught who dared to challenge him.

Simon thought his authority as a teacher would be in jeopardy if he didn't show Miles who was the boss.

The exam results should be out soon. Once he got Miles' report card ranking at the bottom, he planned to smack it in Miles's face. He thought, 'Let's see what excuse he has for staying in this school any longer then.'

With that thought, Simon eagerly approached Oliver and asked, "Mr. Perry, are the midterm exam results out yet?"

The electronic grading was slower than expected; otherwise, Simon thought he would have already made Miles too ashamed to show his face.

Oliver glanced at Simon disinterestedly and instructed several homeroom teachers to come forward and collect the results for each class.

Simon smiled and asked again, "Oliver, how did Class 1 perform this time? I've always been dedicated to this class, and the kids are smart and clever, but since I've just taken over, we're still getting used to each other.

"I hope the results didn't disappoint." He was intentionally being humble.

Class 1 gathered all the top students in Talaris High School. Their exam results were always way ahead, and even the combined average scores of the other six classes couldn't catch up with Class 1.

Simon thought Class 1's results should also be good this time, and he thought Oliver would praise him.

However, Oliver calmly said, "Class 1's performance was just okay. There's some improvement from before, but I think it could be even better."

Simon's smile froze, but he quickly composed himself and said in a flattering manner, "You're right, Oliver. I'll think of ways to boost the kids' scores even more."

"You do need to pay more attention," Oliver said plainly.

Simon felt a bit smug. Remembering how Sarah spoke up for Miles earlier and didn't give him any face, he purposely asked, "Oliver, how did Class 7 do on this exam?

"Did they lower the overall average for the seniors again?" Saying this in public,

he didn't have any respect for Sarah.

In the crowd, Sarah's face turned slightly pale; she felt quite embarrassed.

Unexpectedly, the usually stern and cold Oliver smiled. He happily said, "Class 7 has a student who made a huge improvement this time, even doing better than many students from Class 1. A real dark horse!"

QUMS

Simon's expression changed, feeling a foreboding sensation.

The next moment, Oliver walked straight to Sarah and appreciatively said, "Ms. Kim, your student Miles has improved quickly. How did you manage it?

"You should discuss your methods with other teachers to help more students with their final preparations."

Sarah was still in a trance. Her expression was blank as she replied, "Miles from my class? He has always been very smart."

Simon couldn't accept it and held on to one last bit of hope. He said, "Mr. Perry, how many places did Miles move up? Did he get into the top ten in the grade?"

According to their bet, no matter how much Miles improved, it was a loss as long as he didn't get into the top ten.

Oliver was in a good mood and didn't notice Simon's unusual expression, Smiling, he said, was near the bottom in the last

monthly test, but in just a monet

he's climbed into the top five in the grade."

Hearing this, Simon's face turned pale.

Lost in his thoughts, Oliver continued, "This student has unlimited potential. We must nurture him well; he might even bring glory to our school in the SAT."

Chapter 389

Upon hearing this, Simon was dumbfounded, and Sarah looked utterly incredulous.

Sarah, in a daze, said, "Top five in the grade? Did Miles from our class achieve this? There can't be a mistake, right?"

Oliver replied, "It's him. The student ID is correct. He's from class 7."

Sarah couldn't contain her joy. She slapped her thigh in excitement and exclaimed, "I always said Miles has a talent for studying. He didn't focus on his academics before and got a bit lazy, but he didn't disappoint me in the end."

Simon felt heartbroken. His heart raced, his blood boiled, and his breathing quickened. In panic, he exclaimed, "How is that possible?

"No one can improve so much in such a short period. Miles must have cheated on the exam."

Sarah's smile froze and her expression became hesitant.

However, Oliver gave Simon a cold glare and said with a stern face, "I was also the proctor for this month's exam, and Miles happened to be in the room I was monitoring. Are you accusing me of letting things slide on purpose?"

Simon tugged at the corner of his mouth and said, "No, that's not what I meant." His mind raced, and he added, "I'm just worried that Miles might cheat, which wouldn't be fair to the others.

"Even if you monitor the exam, there could be things you might miss, Mr. Perry."

Another chemistry teacher suddenly said, "I can assure you that Miles did not cheat. I invigilated Miles during the chemistry exam. I stood by his desk for quite a while and watched.

"His problem-solving was clear, and he even solved the final question, which was quite difficult. There's no way he could have cheated right under my nose."

Simon was left completely speechless. Thinking about their bet, a wave of dizziness washed over him.

Oliver wasn't about to let Simon off easy. He scolded, "You're Miles's physics teacher. You should know how hard he's been working lately. How can you accuse a student of cheating in public? That's unacceptable."

Simon gritted his teeth and unwillingly said, "Sorry, Mr. Perry. I was anxious for a moment and didn't realize this student had real skills. I must have been blind."

Oliver snorted and handed Simon the report card with a stern expression. He said, "Be more careful in the future! Go post the results; the students are eager to see them."

Simon agreed with a sullen look.

"The results are posted on the bulletin board!" During the break, someone shouted at the classroom door. All students instantly rushed out like a swarm, all heading towards the bulletin board.

Miles remained seated, absorbed in reading a collection of challenging physics problems.

Miles' seatmate nudged his shoulder and asked curiously, "Miles, why aren't you checking your grades?"

They were seated in the last row of Class 7, facing the back door. With the door open, even students outside could hear their conversation.

Among them was a boy from Class 1, a high achiever who consistently ranked in the top ten of the grade. He overheard Miles' seatmate and mocked, "Does Miles need to check his scores? He's always at the bottom anyway."

Miles couldn't be bothered to respond and didn't glance his way.

Feeling bored, the student snorted and walked away dismissively.

After everyone left, Miles finally dropped his head onto the desk and sighed in frustration. Even the joy of getting a new phone from Eric this morning couldn't lift his mood.

Miles

Jessica told Miles that the family would be having lunch with Alistair's family. But it was now the final

stretch of senior year. The teacher

often reminded them not to take

leaves, fearing they'd fall behind if they slacked off.

Miles thought, 'It seems quite impossible to ask for leave. Or maybe I should just sneak out by climbing the fence?'

While lost in thought, Miles suddenly heard urgent footsteps and desks and chairs clashing in the classroom. He looked up and saw a classmate rush over to him.

The classmate's eyes were shining with excitement as he exclaimed, "Miles, top five in the grade, you made it to the top five! Wow, how did you manage that?"

 

Chapter 390

Miles blinked slowly, momentarily lost for words.

Still excited, the classmate caught his breath and said with pride, "You're the top student this time, Miles. You've made our class proud!"

Miles felt a weight lift off his shoulders and smiled in relief.

*****

Over an hour later, Audrey walked down the stairs with a flushed face, trembling slightly.

Sunny was having breakfast in the dining room. Noticing how weak Audrey seemed, he quickly got up to support her arm and guided her to a chair.

His words were a little unclear. His big round eyes were full of worry as he said, "Mommy, sick."

Noticing Sunny's concern, Audrey sheepishly touched the tip of her nose, her ears turning even redder.

Alistair, who was a step behind, saved her from awkwardness by saying, while ruffling Sunny's hair, "Your mommy isn't sick."

Sunny didn't believe it and kept staring at Audrey. He said, "Her face is all red." "Maybe it's just hot," Alistair said with a straight face.

Hearing this, Audrey's mind flashed back to the passionate scene in the closet, and she shot a fierce look at Alistair.

She couldn't figure out what came over her, allowing herself to be so easily tempted into making the first move on Alistair. The outcome was obvious.

She was barely able to handle the situation. She probably wouldn't have made it downstairs for another hour if she hadn't begged for mercy.

Alistair wasn't upset by her glare. Instead, he stepped forward to massage her back, soothing her softly and gently.

Seeing the sweet interaction

between his parents, Sunny, a bit jealous, sulked and pouted. The next moment, he got up and brought the prepared bread and oatmeal to Audrey, thoughtfully picking up a small spoon to feed her.

Audrey was touched by Sunny's kind gesture. She ate the oatmeal Sunny fed her. Then, she gently cupped Sunny's face and affectionately tousled his hair. Her eyes sparkled as she said, "Sunny is awesome; I love you the most!"

Sunny squinted with a bright smile, his expression cheerful and sunny. No one who saw this scene would believe he was a child struggling with severe bipolar disorder and autism.

Audrey kissed his forehead as a reward.

Sunny immediately raised an eyebrow at Alistair with a smug glint that was hard to miss in his eyes.

Although Alistair felt slightly jealous, he knew Sunny never forgot a slight. Since he was in a good mood today, he decided not to argue.

After they finished breakfast, Alistair went to his study for a meeting.

Audrey took Sunny's hand and went to the closet to pick out clothes for the family gathering later that afternoon.

Inside the closet, Sunny sat quietly on a small chair, swinging his legs. He watched Audrey as she picked clothes from the closet.

Audrey looked up and down. After a long time, she picked out a mint-green children's outfit with cute little horns on the hood. She held up the clothes in front of Sunny and softly asked, "Sunny, how about you wear this today?

"This is the new outfit Grandma bought for you last time. You haven't worn such a

bright color before; you'll look great."

Seeing Audrey's hopeful expression, Sunny nodded in agreement.

Audrey immediately helped him put it on.

The clothes fit just right, and the mint-green color softened Sunny's serious nature, making him look like a cute bundle of joy.

Audrey couldn't hide her amazement. She kissed Sunny on the cheek and exclaimed, "Sunny, you're the cutest kid in the world. I love you so much."