Chapter 54

When Richard thought about how his daughter Cassandra had given up her hard-won college admission just to protect the family’s reputation, that familiar guilt hit him hard. He felt sorry for her, but at the same time, proud—proud of how selfless and mature she’d been for her age.

But as she laid out her reasoning, he couldn’t help but frown.

“I’ll touch base with Lexford University first before we say anything to the media,” Richard said, picking up his phone—right before a call came through.

It was security at the gate, reporting something unexpected: the crowd of reporters who’d been swarming outside had mysteriously all been taken away by the police. No explanation. Just—gone.

And when he checked online? Every article about Cassandra had vanished.

It was like nothing had happened at all.

“Dad, what now?” Cassandra asked softly, staring at the tips of her shoes. Her voice was low, like she was afraid of making things worse.

Richard hesitat