Her Rise 283

Rumors about Athena and her relationship with Zaden were spreading rapidly throughout the hospital and beyond, creating a chaotic atmosphere where no one could distinguish truth from falsehood. Despite the swirling gossip, Athena remained calm and composed, even smiling lightly as she focused on her work. In stark contrast, Maya was seething with anger, her mood completely ruined by the sight of Athena and Zaden sharing a meal and smiling together, which contradicted her belief that they were still distant.

Maya’s frustration turned into a cold determination to remove Athena from the hospital. She planned to exploit Athena’s return to the surgical department by hoping for her failure during surgery, which would allow Maya to step in, destroy Athena’s reputation, and use public opinion to force her out completely. Confident in her scheme, Maya made a call to ensure that damaging rumors about Athena had already been set into motion, feeling victorious as she anticipated Athena’s downfall.

Unaware of the storm brewing online, Athena was caught off-guard when her phone buzzed with a call from Harriet, who informed her that the internet was abuzz with news about her confrontation with Zaden’s first love. Athena was surprised at how quickly the news had spread and realized someone must have deliberately stirred the pot. Harriet warned her that the public was watching closely and that if Athena lost the challenge with Maya, the backlash would be severe.

Despite the pressure and the negative chatter online, Athena remained resolute. She acknowledged that once she accepted Maya’s challenge, there was no turning back. Understanding that the rumors were likely being fueled by someone eager to see her fail, Athena was determined not to give her detractors the satisfaction. She prepared herself to face the public scrutiny and the difficult path ahead with quiet confidence.

Chapter 283 The Storm of Rumors

Rumors were spreading everywhere, inside the hospital and beyond. Some said this, others said that. Nobody could tell what was true or false anymore. But Athena didn’t seem affected at all.

She smiled lightly and said, “I’ll tell you later. Come on, let’s get to work.”

While Athena looked calm and cheerful, Maya was fuming with anger.

That accidental encounter had entirely ruined her good mood.

She thought Athena and Zaden were still giving each other the cold shoulder. But seeing them together–sharing a meal, smiling–was enough to make her blood boil.

Unbelievable!

I have to find a way to kick Athena out of here!

Athena wants to return to the surgical department and actually accepted my challenge. Fine.

But what if Athena failed?

When she messed up during surgery and caused serious consequences, I could swoop in to save the day and completely crush Athena’s reputation.

Even better, I could use public opinion to get rid of Athena.

The more complaints people filed against her, the worse it would get. Maybe Athena would be forced to leave the hospital altogether.

Maya’s lips curled into a cold, satisfied smile. Her mood lifted immediately.

She pulled out her phone and made a call. She asked with clenched teeth, “Did you do what I asked? Is Athena’s story out yet?”

“Don’t worry, Ms. Rice,” the voice on the other end said. “Everything’s been handled.”

Maya ended the call. A mocking grin spreaded across her face.

This time, Athena wouldn’t escape her downfall.

Athena had no idea she’d already become the hottest topic online.

Chapter 283 The Storm of Rumors

+8 Pearls

She was still busy working when her phone started buzzing. It was Harriet. “Athena! How on earth did you end up going head–to–head with Zaden’s first love? The internet’s going crazy about you two!”

“What?” Athena frowned in confusion.

She had just accepted Maya’s challenge. How did the news have spread this fast?

Someone must have stirred things up on purpose.

“Your name’s all over the news! Go check it yourself!” Harriet urged.

Athena quickly grabbed her phone. Sure enough, her name was plastered all over the place. The last time she had gotten this much attention was during the whole Lewis scandal. Since then, she’d been keeping a low profile.

But this time, her renewed fame came from the public bet she made with Maya.

It looked like there was no way she could stay under the radar anymore.

Harriet sighed. “Do you really think you can win this? The whole internet’s watching. If you lose, they’re going to tear you apart. People are already talking trash.”

Athena smiled. “The moment I agreed, I knew there was no turning back.”

But after what Harriet said, Athena understood why the rumors had spread so fast.

Someone wanted this to blow up, probably waiting to see her fail.

Well, she wasn’t about to give them that satisfaction.

2.3K

Amidst the swirling storm of rumors and public scrutiny, Athena’s unwavering composure and quiet determination shine through. Despite the malicious intent behind the rapid spread of gossip, she remains focused on her goal, embracing the challenge with a calm confidence that speaks to her inner strength. The chapter captures the tension between external pressures and personal resolve, highlighting how Athena chooses to rise above the noise rather than be consumed by it.

Meanwhile, the brewing conflict with Maya adds a layer of emotional intensity, underscoring themes of rivalry, ambition, and the high stakes within their shared world. As Athena steps into the spotlight once more, the narrative delicately balances the threat of downfall with the promise of resilience, leaving readers invested in her journey and the unfolding drama that surrounds her.

The next chapter promises to delve deeper into the escalating tension between Athena and Maya, as the stakes continue to rise both professionally and personally. Athena’s determination to prove herself in the surgical department will be tested not only by the challenges of her work but also by the relentless scrutiny of the public eye. Meanwhile, Maya’s calculated moves to undermine Athena hint at a brewing storm of rivalry that could have far-reaching consequences for both women.

Emotions will run high as Athena faces the growing pressure from the rumors swirling around her, forcing her to confront not just external obstacles but also her own fears and doubts. The dynamic between Athena and Zaden may also become more complex, especially as whispers and misunderstandings threaten to cloud their interactions. Readers can expect a chapter filled with subtle power plays, unexpected alliances, and the simmering tension of a battle that goes far beyond the operating room.

Sara Lili

Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.