Chapter 15: First Day of School

Aurora had breakfast and changed into the clothes Cameron had brought her, now just an ordinary college student. She was attending the same university as Ivy and Zachary, the best institution in Clothville, particularly renowned for its finance program. This program was mostly filled with rich kids, all preparing to take over their family businesses.

However, most students at this school were there just to earn a degree. The entrance exams were tough, but graduation was often easy, as the school valued personal contributions to society and practical results over academics. This made graduation a breeze for wealthy students already involved in their family businesses, like siblings Ivy and Zachary.

Aurora didn't want to reveal that she was back yet; staying under the radar seemed best. She hadn't been idle over the past few years; Asher had already arranged a new office for her, and she was ready to use her capabilities to bring down the Simmons family!

Officially, she was a senior student, but that was also about establishing a foothold in Clothville. The finance department was divided into five classes, A through E, with the privileged students concentrated in Classes A and B. Aurora avoided these and joined Class D.

By senior year, the excitement had faded. Many students were rarely on campus as they were busy job hunting. The announcement of an exchange student had sparked some interest, particularly among the boys, many of whom attended class in anticipation.

When the tutor introduced Aurora to the class, the students were disappointed. "What, she's back from New York? She sure doesn’t look that way though!"

"I'd believe she's from the countryside more likely."

"Ugh, this is not what I was hoping for. Boring."

The classroom buzzed with their comments until the tutor clapped his hands.

"Let's welcome Aurora, who is now beginning her journey with us here in Clothvile. Welcome!"

Aurora looked different from the morning. Her usually tied-back hair now fell over her forehead in bangs, hiding her face. She had deliberately worn braces and dotted her face with freckles. Most notably, she wore large, black-framed glasses that obscured most of her features, making her unrecognizable. Coupled with the cheap, loose clothes Cameron had bought her, she looked neither fashionable nor affluent.

Seeing her dressed so plainly, everyone doubted she could be an exchange student.

"There really aren't many beauties in finance," they muttered, turning away.

Behind the thick glasses, a sharp light flashed in Aurora's eyes. Academic recognition from her peers was the least of her concerns; she only needed the diploma. If she had shown her true face, Ivy and Zachary would soon learn of her return.

Since she sought revenge, exposing herself would only lose her the element of surprise.

"Hello, everyone, I—I'm Aurora. Nice to meet you all," she said nervously, head bowed.

Her appearance drew laughter.

"Cough, why don't you sit next to Ian?" said the tutor.

"Thank you," Aurora walked to the indicated seat beside Ian. Recognized as the best and most handsome student, Ian wore the typical nerd glasses but did not mock her.

"Hello, I'm Ian. Let me know if you need help with anything."

"Th—thank you," Aurora said, shyly shifting her gaze away.