Chapter 102

"What a vicious mastermind." Vivian Ashcroft sneered, her fingers drumming on the table. "Hiding in the shadows, using others as pawns."

Her eyes suddenly narrowed. "This tactic feels eerily familiar—just like Isabella Valentine's underhanded moves. Weaponizing public opinion. Your university hates scandals. She's trying to ruin you."

"Most likely her." Sophia Lowell's voice remained calm.

Vivian frowned. "We couldn't pin it on her last time. This will be even harder."

"Right now, damage control is priority." Sophia checked her watch. "I have two hours."

"Got a plan?"

Sophia nodded, opening her laptop. "Good thing I always back things up. The Clementson Code is still here."

Vivian's eyes lit up. "This will go viral for sure!"

She suddenly slammed the table. "Wait! I have an audio recording—that conversation with Daniel's family at the private dining club last time. My phone accidentally recorded it in my pocket."

"Send it." Sophia's fingers flew across the keyboard. "I'll compile everything."

Thirty minutes later, a new post appeared on the university forum. Sophia tagged Mrs. Clementson: "The truth speaks for itself. These slanderous rumors have caused significant harm. Police report filed. See you in court if you disagree."

The post included four pieces of evidence:

The original Clementson Code sent by Mrs. Clementson

The complete audio from the private dining club

The police report confirming Daniel's fatal car accident

Bank records showing the returned dowry

The final transaction showed the system automatically refunding subsequent payments from the Clementsons.

"Perfect!" Vivian cheered over the phone. "Now let's see how that old witch wriggles out of this! Her son died in a crash, the dowry was fully returned—ironclad proof she fabricated everything!"

Public opinion flipped instantly. The comments section exploded:

"Knew there'd be a twist! Is the Clementson Code some relic? The Qing Dynasty ended ages ago!"

"Her son clearly died in an accident, yet she blames Professor Lowell? Harassment much?"

"Someone needs to investigate who's behind this smear campaign. Disgusting behavior!"

Sophia closed the browser as her phone lit up—a text from an unknown number: "You think this is over?"