Facade

“How is she here?” Lily’s voice trailed off, her eyes wide with disbelief as they fixed on the figure beside Christopher on stage. 

She wasn’t supposed to be here. Not now! 

The girl’s long black hair flowed like a waterfall. Her delicate features were softened by subtle makeup, transforming her usual aloof demeanor into captivating grace 

Clad in Cavenridge’s deep bloe winter uniform, the pleated skirt showcased her long legs in black boots, elevating the ordinary attire to high fashion. 

Christopher was equally polished with light makeup and styled hair. He looked effortlessly handsome in his fitted uniform. Together, they exuded a magnetic charm, drawing thunderous applause and a shower of camera flashes from the captivated audience. 

Lily’s blood boiled, her hands balling into fists. She knew she had locked that dressing room door! 

Taking advantage of the commotion, she slipped backstage once more. The dressing room where Hera had been confined remained securely locked 

How was this possible? 

“This is your doing, isn’t it?” a female voice accused from the shadows. 

Lily whipped around, startled to find Cindy standing there with her eyes narrowed in suspicion. Having previously cautioned Hera about Lily, Cindy had unsurprisingly caught her red–handed. 

Lily felt a flicker of defensiveness but quickly reminded herself of the bustling backstage, the constant flow of people, and the carefully orchestrated surveillance. As long as she maintained her composure, no one would suspect her involvement 

Straightening her posture, she retorted, “Cindy, shouldn’t you be watching the opening ceremony? What are you doing here? ConTEent bel0ngs to Nôv(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

“I was waiting for you,” Cindy replied, adjusting her thick black–framed glasses. Her gaze was unwavering, and Lily felt uneasy under Cindy’s piercing stare. 

“Is there something you need?” Lily asked, trying to maintain her composure. 

“Ms. Jenkins is looking for you. She wants to see you immediately.” 

Relieved that Cindy didn’t mention the locked door, Lily nodded and quickly left the backstage area. 

The plan hadn’t unfolded as smoothly as Lily had hoped, which frustrated her. Cindy must have been the one who freed Hera, allowing her to arrive at the opening ceremony on time and ruin Lily’s plan. 

However, Lily had a backup plan, checking her watch, she realized the national informatics competition was almost over. She had arranged for someone to register Hera for the competition, expecting the media to expose her deliberate absence and tarnish her reputation, 

That would ultimately lead to her expulsion from the school. 

Imagining Hera’s expulsion from Cavenridge filled Lily with a sense of triumph. She quickened her pace to the office and found Yulian 

“Ms. Jenkins, are you looking for me?” she inquired 

Yuliana’s expression was stern. “Lily, what’s going on? Why did you register for a competition and not show up?” 

Confusion washed over Lily: “Whatcompetition? 

Yuliana tossed a tablet onto the desk. “Take a look at this!‘ 

Lily’s stomach churned with unease as she picked up the device. 

“Live Report! Cavenridge Junior Year Class B Student Skips the International Informatics Competition!” 

Scrolling down, she found a list of students who had failed to appear–Lily Bourne… 

Her mind reeled. How could this be? She hadn’t registered for any competition! 

“Ms. Jenkins, this is a complete fabrication! I didn’t register!” Lily’s voice rose with indignation. 

“Fabrication? This list is from the competition organizers!” Yuliana countered, swiping through the screen. 

The news outlet had indeed included the official list of absentees. Though partially censored, “Lily Bourn” from Cavenridge’s junior year Class B was undeniably her.