I noticed that Andrew's seat was empty, and when Usan shot me a disdainful smile, I suddenly had a guess about what was going on.

Following the counselor into the principal's office, I indeed saw Andrew there. His head was bowed, not even giving me a glance.

"Someone reported that your recent exam results were achieved through cheating," the counselor said bluntly.

"But, teacher, you've seen my competition results..." I instinctively defended myself.

The counselor presented the so-called evidence—a screenshot of a chat where "I" asked Andrew to help me cheat.

"That's not me," I said, frowning.

"Daisy," Andrew, who had been silent, suddenly spoke, "Didn't you always say that when you do something wrong, you should own up to it?"

I finally looked at him, expressionless. We stared at each other for a long time.

The truth was still unclear, and I couldn't immediately find evidence to prove my innocence. In the end, I had to voluntarily give up my postgraduate recommendation.

Andrew and I walked out of the office, one after the other. Halfway down the corridor, he suddenly stopped and said, "I'm sorry."

I walked past him as if I hadn't heard.

4

I wandered aimlessly, feeling a wave of helplessness.