Her Rise 291

Athena learns from Harriet that Maya has leaked a video of her performing a surgery simulation online, which quickly attracts harsh criticism from viewers. The comments question her skills and professionalism, threatening her reputation and career. Harriet warns Athena that Maya’s intention is to unsettle her, hoping she will panic and make mistakes later. Despite Harriet’s concerns about Athena’s hand, she chooses to trust her friend’s confidence and decides not to interfere further.

Athena remains calm but is deeply troubled by how Maya obtained the video so quickly. It was her first day back at the research institute and her first time holding a scalpel again, yet every movement had been recorded and leaked. She suspects someone close to her must have betrayed her, considering the receptionist’s unusual interest in Zaden and the presence of several assistant doctors during the simulation. Athena resolves to discover the truth and expose the culprit the next day.

When Zaden arrives, he immediately notices Athena’s tension and inquires about the situation. Athena shows him the leaked video on Instagram, prompting him to question how Maya knew they were abroad and how she acquired the footage. Athena challenges Zaden, suspecting a breach in his arrangements, which visibly unsettles him. Zaden promises to investigate the leak, while Athena asserts her determination to find the person responsible herself. The chapter ends with both of them resolved to uncover the source of the betrayal.

Chapter 291: The Leaked Video

News from Vlephia didn’t arrive at Athena’s doorstep immediately.

When Harriet finally called to inform her, Athena’s restraint snapped. Without hesitation, she activated her phone’s data connection and opened the app to see what Maya had posted.

What greeted her eyes was a video — a recording of Athena herself performing the surgery simulation in the lab.

Her eyebrows knitted together in confusion and irritation.

How on earth had Maya managed to get hold of that footage so quickly?

She scrolled down through the comments, bracing herself. As she had feared, the section was flooded with harsh and disparaging remarks.

“Are you serious? She can’t even hold the scalpel steady. Would you trust her to operate on you?”

“Athena accepted Professor Rice’s challenge. Looks like she’s trying way too hard to prove herself.”

“This is absurd. Is that an actual surgery or just a simulation? If it’s real, that poor patient is doomed!”

“Let’s file a complaint with the hospital. They can’t keep a doctor like this on staff!”

Just then, another message from Harriet popped up on her screen. “Have you seen it? Maya leaked your simulation video online. You’re overseas and can’t defend yourself. She’s trying to stir up public opinion. If too many people complain, even a hospital owned by Storm Group won’t be able to keep you.”

For a doctor, reputation was everything.

Once it was tarnished, no patient would trust you again — which meant the end of your career.

“I think Maya’s trying to get inside your head,” Harriet added with concern. “She wants you to panic and slip up later. Athena, you have to stay strong.”

Harriet had some worries about Athena’s hand — whether it was truly healed or not — but after a moment’s reflection, she chose to trust her friend’s confidence.

Since Athena seemed composed, Harriet decided not to interfere further.

Athena responded with calm determination, “This is only the beginning. Don’t worry. I’ll handle it.”

She set her phone down and sat quietly, lost in thought.

Athena wasn’t emotionally rattled by Maya’s post itself; what truly bothered her was how Maya had obtained the video in the first place.

Today marked her first day at the research institute — her first time holding a scalpel again.

Yet somehow, every single movement she made had been sent directly to Maya. Someone must have leaked the footage.

Could it have been the receptionist?

Athena recalled how that woman had stared at Zaden with far too much interest. Could she have been the one secretly passing on the video? But that theory didn’t quite add up. The receptionist hadn’t been inside the lab; gaining access to the security footage would have been difficult for her.

Frowning deeply, Athena pondered the possibilities.

Besides Roxanne, several assistant doctors had been present during the simulation. She didn’t know which one had betrayed her, but she was determined to uncover the truth.

Tomorrow, she vowed, she would expose whoever was responsible.

Soon after, Zaden arrived.

He was dressed in a sleek black suit, exuding calm elegance. When he glanced at her from the driver’s seat, her heart skipped a beat.

Silently, Athena thought, No wonder that receptionist couldn’t stop staring with a look like that.

She grabbed her bag and slid into the car. Zaden immediately noticed the tension etched on her face.

“Did the surgical simulation go badly today? Or is something else wrong?” he asked, concern evident in his voice.

Hearing his worry, Athena felt her emotions surge again. She wasn’t weak, but in that moment, having someone to lean on felt comforting.

“Maya posted the video on Instagram. Have you seen it?” she asked quietly.

Zaden looked surprised. “No, I haven’t.”

He added, “Show me. I don’t really use that stuff.”

Athena wondered if he was trying to brush it off because of what had happened before, but she didn’t argue.

She opened Maya’s Instagram and handed her phone over.

“Look for yourself.”

Zaden stared at the screen, his brows furrowing deeply.

“How did Maya know we were abroad? And how did she get those videos?” he muttered.

Athena sneered slightly. “That’s exactly the question I want to ask you.”

“Did something go wrong with your arrangements?” she pressed.

Zaden’s expression darkened at her words.

He had personally selected that location for Athena. The hospital director was a close acquaintance, and the institution had ongoing partnerships with his company. There shouldn’t have been any leaks.

“I’ll find out who did this,” he said quietly but firmly. “Don’t worry.”

Athena leaned back in her chair, her voice steady. “I’m not worried. Tomorrow, I’ll uncover the person behind this.”

The chapter closes on a note of quiet resilience, capturing Athena’s unwavering determination despite the unexpected betrayal and public scrutiny she faces. The leak of her surgery simulation video not only threatens her professional reputation but also tests her inner strength and trust in those around her. Yet, rather than succumbing to despair, Athena channels her frustration into resolve, preparing to confront the hidden enemy who seeks to undermine her. This moment of vulnerability paired with steadfast courage deepens the emotional complexity of her journey, highlighting the personal costs of ambition and the fierce protection of one’s dreams.

Amid the tension and uncertainty, the subtle support from Zaden offers Athena a moment of solace, reminding her that she is not alone in this battle. Their interaction underscores the delicate balance between vulnerability and strength in the face of adversity. As Athena settles into a quiet determination to expose the truth, the chapter leaves readers with a poignant sense of hope and anticipation, emphasizing themes of resilience, loyalty, and the pursuit of justice within the tangled web of personal and professional challenges.

The next chapter promises a tense unraveling of secrets as Athena digs deeper into the betrayal that has compromised her professional reputation. With trust shattered and suspicion cast on those closest to her, the emotional stakes rise, forcing Athena to confront not only external adversaries but also the fragile alliances within her own circle. The shadow of the leaked video looms large, threatening to upend everything she has worked for.

Meanwhile, Zaden’s involvement hints at a deeper layer of intrigue, as his connections and protective instincts come into play. Their dynamic will likely be tested as they navigate the fallout together, balancing personal loyalty against the harsh realities of the situation. Readers can expect a gripping blend of emotional resilience, strategic maneuvering, and the relentless pursuit of truth in the face of mounting pressure.

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.