Chapter 95

The moment Evelyn opened her mouth to respond, the surrounding girls erupted in mocking laughter.

"Cat got your tongue? Can't even play a simple instrument?"

"Stop pretending to be the perfect student if you can't back it up!"

"If you can't even handle a ukulele, everyone will know your 'genius' reputation was just the dean's favoritism. Who'd believe there's nothing shady between you two?"

Evelyn never claimed to be some prodigy. The dean had taken a liking to her mathematical brilliance, constantly praising her work. Their frequent office meetings? Simply discussions about advanced equations where the esteemed professor often sought her insights, setting aside his seniority to learn from her.

A pure academic relationship twisted into something sordid by petty minds. The dean was one of the few who made her university life bearable. She wouldn't let them smear his reputation—or hers.

"Fine." Evelyn's voice cut through the jeers. "I'll play."

The crowd burst into fresh ridicule.

"Don't embarrass yourself further!"

"You just ran off stage! Nobody's buying this sudden confidence!"

"Remember—actual music, not random strumming! We know the difference!"

Across the balcony, Benjamin Rivers swirled his sparkling water, too young to join Nathaniel and Dominic's poker game. His bored gaze landed on the commotion below.

"Well, well. If it isn't the insufferable Evelyn Whitmore." He nudged his companion. "Look, Maxwell—Nathaniel's so-called wife getting roasted by her own classmates."

Maxwell peeked over. "That does appear to be Mrs. Grayson—"

Benjamin's palm smacked the back of his head. "Mrs. Grayson? Never! My sister Amelia is the only woman worthy of Nathaniel! This country bumpkin's just a placeholder!"

Rubbing his head, Maxwell sighed. "Yes, sir. My mistake..."

Benjamin's smirk widened as he watched the scene unfold. "See how everyone hates her? Proves she's the problem."

Maxwell hesitated. "Actually, those girls seem to be bullying—OW!" Benjamin's kick silenced him.

"Whose side are you on?" Benjamin glowered. "I declare her guilty—end of discussion!"

Near tears, Maxwell nodded. "As you say, sir."

"Better." Benjamin's eyes gleamed. "Now fetch Nathaniel and the others. Let's watch the peasant humiliate herself. No way this backwater girl can play."

Maxwell hesitated but feared another assault. With a resigned nod, he hurried off—praying this wouldn't backfire spectacularly.