Chapter 33
Chapter 33
Immersed in solving the question, Helen did not notice Chandler staring at her. Belonging © NôvelDram/a.Org.
Once she had solved the question, there were scribbles all over the draft paper.
As she stretched, the deep voice by her ear said, "You did well. The method and steps are correct. Move on to the next problem. It's a bit easier."
"Right," Helen acknowledged and continued with renewed focus.
Time passed by quietly.
Eventually, Helen's exhaustion caught up, and she succumbed to sleep at her desk.
In the dim light, Chandler found Helen's usually unattractive face seemed softer and even gentle.
Chandler lifted Helen gently and placed her on the bed. Once on the bed, Helen turned to find a comfortable position and fell into a deep sleep until morning.
…
The next day, Helen woke to sunlight streaming through the window.
Sitting up, she realized she was still in yesterday's clothes. Slowly, it dawned on her that she had fallen asleep at her desk.
How did she end up in bed?
The possibility made Helen slap her forehead in annoyance.
Quickly, she got up and changed clothes in the dressing room. She was relieved to find her makeup intact, and her wig was properly in place.
After a final check in the mirror, she grabbed her backpack and headed downstairs.
Her transport for school was already waiting. Helen hurriedly opened the door and got in, only to find Chandler was the driver.
Memories of the previous night made her feel awkward. She sat silently in the back seat and pretended to be indifferent.
Chandler started the car and drove off in silence.
For the first time, Helen experienced what genuine awkwardness felt like. Even the air felt heavy.
She silently prayed for a quick arrival at school.
As soon as the car neared the school, Helen couldn't wait to open the door but found it locked.
"Could you please unlock the door?" she asked.
In the next moment, Chandler handed her a notebook.
Helen was puzzled. "What's this?"
Chandler explained, "Math Olympiad topics. It may be helpful."
"Ah, no need for that," Helen refused almost instantly.
But Chandler wouldn't take no for an answer.
"I never take back what I've given. If you don't need it, throw it away."
Chandler's tone was even, but Helen sensed his displeasure. Not wanting to provoke him further, she accepted the notebook.
"Alright, thank you."
Seeing Helen accept the workbook, Chandler seemed more at ease.
He nodded in acknowledgment and finally unlocked the door for Helen to get out of the car.
"Thank you. You can go back now." She waved at him.
This time, Chandler didn't leave immediately but watched until Helen entered the school and disappeared from his sight.
Only then did he drive away.
Helen walked along the school path toward her classroom, holding the notebook Chandler gave her.
Yet, she couldn't fathom his intentions.