Cedric’s words confirmed beyond doubt that Ariel was the author of the research papers.
Everyone knew Ariel was Carlos‘ student, and that Carlos and Cedric rarely saw eye to eye. So if even Cedric had spoken up in Ariel’s defense, it was undeniable that the papers were truly hers.
Cedric wouldn’t have vouched for Ariel just to save Carlos‘ reputation. His statement was the most credible in the room.
Despite their frequent disagreements, Carlos and Cedric shared a deep commitment to fairness and integrity in the academic world.
Frederick’s face paled as Cedric dismissed his suspicions. He instinctively glanced at Nancy.
Nancy struggled to suppress the emotions surging through her. Bu the twitching of her lips betrayed her inner turmoil. She couldn’t believe Cedric had spoken up for Ariel.
Had he known Ariel all along? Why hadn’t he mentioned her before?
Nancy had been completely unaware of Ariel’s true capabilities. The three research papers had shaken her. If Ariel continued to grow at this pace…
Nancy tried to slow her breathing, determined not to lose composure in front of the crowd.
“It’s just the papers,” she told herself. “When it comes to real research work, Ariel’s probably no match for me.”
Jayson, seated nearby, tapped his watch with one hand and slowly stood. He looked at Ariel and finally said, “Congrats.”
It seemed Cedric’s endorsement had convinced him.
Still, it was unclear whether Jayson was congratulating Ariel for her success or for clearing her name.
From this moment on, no one would question her authorship again.
Ariel turned to him and noticed the calm look in his eyes. Perhaps to avoid stirring gossip, Jayson wore a gentle expression. His eyes crinkled slightly–barely noticeable.
She chose not to ignore him and gave a small nod. She knew today’s events would soon spread, and she didn’t want rumors about her relationship with Jayson to circulate alongside the news of her success. 1
Nancy, watching Jayson congratulate Ariel, felt another pang of resentment. She could feel her indignation rising. All she could do was watch as Ariel basked in newfound fame and admiration.
Ariel hadn’t sought any of this. It had all started with Frederick’s attempt to discredit her. Then Cedric had stepped in, validating Ariel’s work. In the end, Ariel had proven herself and silenced all doubts.
Moments later, several students from the back rows hurried toward Ariel, eager to speak with her and seek her advice. They found it difficult to approach the seasoned experts at the event. Ariel, being closer to their age, felt far more approachable.
In no time, she was surrounded by students who looked at her with awe and admiration.
Chad chuckled and stood beside her, gently keeping the crowd from pressing too close.
Ariel was gracious and patient, offering clear and thoughtful answers to their questions. Eventually, the impromptu Q&A session ended, and Ariel was guided away from the crowd.
Chad glanced around the hall. His eyes landed on Carlos and several prominent figures chatting nearby. He leaned toward Ariel and said, “Honestly, today’s event was a rare and special occasion.”
Ariel looked at him. “What do you mean?”
Chad raised his brows. “If Frederick hadn’t voiced his doubts during such a major event and inadvertently confirmed that you wrote those papers five years ago, there would’ve been endless speculation once your authorship was revealed.
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“That’s just human nature. Without an opportumlty like today, where you could publicly clear the air, people would’ve kept questioning you. You’d have faced slander and doubt for a long time.”
That was the reality of their world. Not everyone in academia was ble. Many would tarnish others‘ reputations just to claim the spotlight.
It was rare to have so many experts, journal editors, Carlos, and even Cedric gathered in one place. That was why Chad called it a
rare occasion.
Thanks to Frederick’s challenge, Ariel had emerged stronger, and the outcome would positively shape her future.
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