Chapter 170

The medical expenses for Vincent and Brandon were draining the Lowell family's savings like a bottomless pit.

Sophia stood in the hospital corridor, staring through the glass window at Vincent's unconscious form.

He lay pale as a ghost, still unresponsive.

From the neighboring room, Brandon's agonized screams pierced her temples like needles.

Margaret emerged, clutching a stack of payment slips, tears streaking her cheeks.

"Mom, how much this time?" Sophia asked, suppressing her irritation.

Margaret shook her head, voice trembling. "The doctor says Vincent needs imported medication... Brandon requires a third surgery..."

Sophia turned away before she could finish.

As the elevator doors closed, she kicked the wall hard.

The three million from Vincent Sullivan had vanished like smoke.

And that bitch Evelyn had casually donated seventy million!

Her fists clenched until her nails dug into her palms.

——

Harvard University buzzed with preparations for its centennial gala.

Lillian led the Physics Department girls through dance rehearsals in the studio.

Evelyn executed a flawless final turn before the mirror, moving in sync with the music.

"Perfection!" Lillian clapped excitedly. "Evelyn, you've truly never studied dance?"

Wiping her brow, Evelyn smiled. "Just some tai chi with an elder in my village."

"Liar!" A girl pinched her arm playfully. "This flexibility screams professional training!"

Laughter filled the studio.

Meanwhile, disjointed piano notes drifted from the music room.

The technically demanding Reminiscences of Don Juan sounded like shattered glass under clumsy fingers.

Passing students quickened their steps.

Sophia slammed the keys, teeth gritted.

She would stun everyone at the gala.

In the student council office, she slid a carefully wrapped gift toward a senior.

"About my performance slot..."

The senior adjusted his glasses, smiling cryptically.

At rehearsals, Evelyn's dance earned thunderous applause.

Lillian tugged her arm excitedly. "Evelyn! Let's add a solo for you!"

Before Evelyn could respond, she caught Sophia's venomous glare from backstage.

Their eyes locked—sparks flying in the charged air.

Three days until the gala. Final rehearsals began.