When fate plays its hand
642

Chapter 0642

You…” Hendrix was tongue–tied.

Christine spoke slowly and firmly, “My students deserve my protection. I’d rather forfeit any superficial recognition than let those who’ve hurt them benefit. That’s all there is to it.

“I didn’t put my name on this one, and I won’t in the future. The college had better be prepared for that, so you guys don’t act so shocked next time.”

Hendrix fell silent, already envisioning the future academic achievements of Miranda’s team slipping beyond their reach.

Beckett noticed Hendrix’s face turning pale and cautiously asked, “How’d it go? Is there any way to resolve this?”

“Not a smidge! Extend Joseph’s probation to 12 months!” Hendrix barked before storming back to his office and slamming the door.

Beckett felt a chill run down his spine. He’d never seen Hendrix this furious before.

Meanwhile, in the lab’s break area, Sebastian threw another dart and hit the bullseye. He sent the remaining darts flying in quick succession, each hitting the target dead center.

“Wow!” Madison’s jaw dropped. “Seb, have you been practicing? That aim is unbelievable!”

Sebastian replied, “I practiced for a few months.”

‘Madison was speechless. A few months? Was it for a competition?

“Do you think the college has heard by now?” she asked.

Sebastian unscrewed a bottle of water. “Probably.”

“Then why is it so quiet?”

Miranda looked up from her phone. “Dr. Young already had a talk with the administration.”

Madison’s eyes widened. “And?”

“They had nothing to say.”

“Figures. When we were being harassed, they didn’t lift a finger. But now they want to share the rewards?” Madison scoffed. “Life doesn’t work that way!”

She added, “Today’s a day worth celebrating–I’m thinking we should have a cheat meal.”

Sebastian frowned. “I thought you weren’t on a diet anymore?”

Madison sighed. “I’m not, but I went for a check–up last week, and the report came back saying I have a bit of fatty liver. So, I thought I’d cut back a little!”

Sebastian sighed.

“What’s with that look? You don’t think I can do it?”

Chapter 0642

“No, It’s not that….

“Yes, it is!”

“I was just going to say… maybe I should help you out.

“You?” Madison looked doubtful. “Why? Have you ever had to diet?”

“Who says I haven’t?”

Madison raised an eyebrow. “Hmm?”

Sebastian went silent for a while before saying, “I’m just saying that I can help. Why not give it a shot?

“Fine!”

“Good, I’ll meet you outside your building tomorrow at 6:00 am.”

“W–Why?”

“Morning run.”

Madison’s enthusiasm faded. “Um… on second thought, maybe I should handle this alone and not trouble

you!”

That evening, as they were leaving the lab, Sebastian was halfway out the door when he paused and walked back to Madison. “Remember, tomorrow at six.”

“Wait, I didn’t agree! Hey, come back-” But Sebastian ignored her, walking off without a backward glance.

Madison was left baffled.

Sebastian’s birthday was on January 29th.

It fell on a Saturday, so his family decided to host a small gathering with close relatives and friends. It was nothing formal, just a simple family dinner.

Hence, Scott Landon called his son over and told him he could invite a few friends. Sebastian then chose to invite Miranda and Madison.

On the day of the party, Miranda and Madison left the lab and headed to the Landon estate. They had some idea that Sebastian’s family wasn’t exactly ordinary.

Nevertheless, when they reached the entrance and saw the security detail patrolling the grounds, they finally understood just how “extraordinary” it really was.