Rich Radiant and Over Him (Alicia and Vincent) novel Chapter 28

The trending topic disappeared almost as quickly as it had blown up.

Alicia sat on the edge of the motel bed, a bitter smile tugging at her lips.

This was the power of money—undeniable, unstoppable. Barely twenty-four hours had passed, and not a single trace of the scandal could be found online.

Her phone buzzed with a voice message from Wendy. "Alicia, people like us—we just can't fight the ones with real power. Please, promise me you'll look after yourself."

"Thank you." Alicia typed back her gratitude.

Wendy sent another message, her voice trembling. "Alicia, Chloe reached out to me. She offered me ten grand if I'd turn on you, say horrible things to ruin your name. I didn't agree, but… Alicia, you need to be careful. She can't buy me, but not everyone finds money so easy to refuse. What if the whole class gangs up on you?"

Wendy's voice was thin and frightened, slipping into tears. "This is why I dropped out, you know? Chloe snatched my spot in that competition, and because her family's so well-connected, she turned our whole dorm against me…"

Wendy choked up, knowing all too well just how hard a road Alicia had chosen.

No one stood behind Alicia. She was utterly alone. It was terrifying—and it was hard.

"I know," Alicia's voice was hoarse, but she managed a faint laugh. "Wendy, get some rest, okay? I can handle it. I'm not afraid of them."

When the call ended, Alicia curled up in the corner, hugging her knees to her chest.

She didn't cry.

She wouldn't let herself.

And she sure as hell wouldn't give in.

The scholarship for studying abroad was on hold for now; the administration wouldn't dare publish the final list while rumors swirled online. But that meant Alicia still had a chance.

She would not surrender.

Her phone kept vibrating. She'd blocked Vincent's number, but he always found a way to reach her.

A sudden bang at the door made her flinch. "Alicia! Open up!"

She wasn't surprised he'd found her. He was Vincent, after all.

But this time, what would Vincent do for Mina's sake? How far would he go?

"Alicia, be a good girl and open the door," Vincent's patience was wearing thin.

Taking a steadying breath, Alicia unlocked the door.

Vincent stormed in, immediately pinning her against it.

"I said no!" Alicia's eyes welled with tears, but she held his gaze, stubborn and proud.

"This is your last chance," Vincent's voice was icy, his expression thunderous.

He'd had enough of her disobedience. It was time to remind her who was in charge.

"Do whatever you want, Mr. Lawson. I'm not backing down," Alicia said through clenched teeth, fighting to keep her tears at bay.

She wrenched the door open and pointed outside. "Now please—leave."

Vincent glared at her, then stormed out.

As soon as the door clicked shut, Alicia sank to the floor and sobbed.

Why was it always her? Why was she always the one Vincent sacrificed without a second thought?

Why?

…

Elsewhere, Tyrone returned home after a long day at work.