Chapter 374

Chapter 374:

“I’m sorry,” Fernanda said, lowering her gaze. “I should have been more supportive today, given your mood.”

“That’s alright. You didn’t cause my mood,” Cristian replied warmly, his smile genuine. “Really, I’m just happy you’re here with me.”

He glanced at his watch and said, “It’s getting late. I’ll drive you back.”

Fernanda gave a quiet nod of agreement.

Together, they drove back towards the school. The following morning, Fernanda was up early for her class. She rose at six, prepared herself, and finished her breakfast by half past seven.

Upon reaching the classroom, Fernanda noticed it was already filling up quickly.

“Fernanda!” Levi called out with a wave. “Come sit here!” She approached and took a seat in front of him.

“Has Neal shown up yet?” Fernanda inquired.

“He’s likely to be late,” Alex responded. “Neal was live-streaming until four in the morning.”

“He really shouldn’t miss this class; it’s crucial,” Fernanda sighed.

“Don’t worry,” Alex said with a reassuring nod. “Neal wouldn’t skip. He might sleep through it, but he’ll be here.”

Fernanda rolled her eyes. “Should I take that as a good thing?”

Right at eight, Neal shuffled into the room, yawning, just as the professor walked in. His appearance was rough—dark circles under his eyes and his hair in complete disarray.

Neal made his way to Fernanda’s row and flopped down beside her, slamming a textbook onto the desk.

“That’s the wrong textbook,” Fernanda said.

“Really?” Neal mumbled, yawning as he reached for Fernanda’s book. “We can share yours then.”

“Were you helping a high-roller climb the ranks again last night?” she inquired.

“Actually, I was pushing for the leaderboard,” Neal explained. “The wealthy fan signed off early, so I took the chance to aim for the top spot since the month is wrapping up.”

It then hit Fernanda—she was the one currently leading the leaderboard. “Speaking of which, has your wealthy fan been asking to play with you recently?” Fernanda queried.

“Come to think of it, no,” Neal answered, a hint of confusion in his tone. “I’m not sure if I offended her, but she’s been distant.”

Fortunately for Neal, his income from streaming contracts was substantial, lessening his dependence on tips from live sessions. Losing a major donor would otherwise be detrimental.

Unbeknownst to Neal, his chief benefactor was Bonita, who preferred to keep her identity secret—a fact Fernanda also chose to keep to herself.

That day’s lecture focused on game operations analysis, though Neal, predictably, dozed off for much of it.

After the lecture, Fernanda received a text from Aidan, requesting her presence in his office.

.

.

.