The room fell silent as all eyes turned to me. I felt eerily calm despite the chaos unfolding around me. My mother remained on her knees, tears streaming down her face in a performance worthy of an award.
"Well?" Liam repeated, his voice sharp with impatience. "Explain yourself, Juliana."
I studied the faces around the table. The university officials looked uncomfortable but swayed by my mother's dramatic display. Miles appeared ready to jump to my defense at any moment. And Nathaniel... his expression remained unreadable, but his eyes never left mine.
"There's nothing to explain," I said finally, my voice steady. "My mother has quite a talent for storytelling."
Ivy's sobs grew louder. "Juliana, please! Don't make this worse for yourself. I'm trying to protect you!"
Imogen stepped forward, placing a comforting hand on Ivy's shoulder. "Cousin, your mother is sacrificing herself for you. The least you could do is show some gratitude."
