"Idiot! Just wait and see. I'll triumph over that woman in the program. Why our teacher chose to mentor such a dim-witted individual baffles me. You've disgraced him," Ruth retorted with disdain, shooting a scornful glance at Karol before departing with Hadley.

Karol seethed as she watched them depart, her frustration bubbling to the surface.

In the past, she might have resorted to a slap without a second thought.

Clutching the hem of her attire tightly, she restrained the urge to curse, reminding herself to remain composed despite her simmering anger.

Nevertheless, her objective had been accomplished.

She aimed to stir up Ruth's hostility toward Lilah, relishing the chaos that would ensue. What a spectacle it would be!

“You played your part well," a man's voice behind her remarked, its tone soothing.

Forcing a smile, Karol followed him out, voicing her frustration.

"Kaden, must I continue to suppress myself like this? It's unbearable."

Kaden offered a reassuring pat on her shoulder. “Imagine the consequences if you had let your anger get the best of you. It's better this way."

Karol's brow furrowed at the reminder.

If she had allowed her emotions to spiral out of control, Absolon would have swiftly received word of her behavior, whisked her home, and undoubtedly imposed strict consequences. Danna, too, would have expressed her disappointment.

Karol couldn't afford to stir up any more trouble; she needed to mend her fractured relationship with her father.

"That's why your restraint was commendable. With just a few words, you've ignited a feud between Ruth and Lilah. It's amusing they haven't even met each other yet," Kaden remarked.

As they made their way to his car, Karol was lost in thought, contemplating her next move. She had forgotten the fact that she had arrived in her car earlier.

"Karol, remember who you are—-the heiress of the Morris family. No one can alter that fact. No matter how capable Lilah may seem, she's a newcomer to the family and can't hold a candle to you. Understand? Maintain your pride and dignity. She's not worth any personal vendettas."

Kaden held the door open for Karol, gesturing for her to take a seat.

She lifted her head, meeting his gaze with a mix of emotions swirling in her eyes.

Honestly, she had never considered it from that perspective. After all, she was a Morris, with all the privilege and power that entailed. But Lilah had shattered everything she held dear. Fuming with embarrassment and vexation, Karol's rationality had crumbled.

She'd wanted to sabotage Lilah, but her schemes had backfired spectacularly.

Reluctantly, she conceded that Kaden had a point. She needed to step back and strategize how to win without dirtying her hands.

“Thank you, Kaden," Karol said, a genuine smile tugging at her Lips as enlightenment dawned upon her.

Kaden was taken aback by her sudden change in demeanor, but he couldn't help feeling a sense of satisfaction seeing her uplifted spirits.

"There's a business banquet in Xylo in two days. Join me. It'll be a chance for you to unwind," Kaden suggested.