From Betrayal to Brilliance Her Rise to a New Life novel Chapter 262

262 Daddy’s in Trouble.

Athena had just moved in. For the past two nights, she always waited until Teri fell asleep before going back to her room. Teri had no idea that Zaden had been sleeping in the study.

So when she saw him that morning, she looked puzzled.

Zaden pressed his lips together, unsure how to explain.

Kids didn’t understand how complicated adults could be.

After a moment of thought, he said softly, “I made Mom upset. So, she locked me out of the room and wouldn’t let me sleep inside.”

Inside the room, Athena was already awake. She had guessed that Zaden might be waiting outside her door. Sure enough, she soon heard his voice and Teri’s.

Their entire conversation came through loud and clear.

So Zaden did realize he’d done something wrong. He knew she was angry.

Athena froze for a second. Maybe that sour, heavy feeling she’d been carrying since last night was just anger.

Or maybe jealousy.

Teri finally understood, but her face turned serious again. She crossed her arms and scolded Zaden with a long face.

“Daddy, that’s your fault! How could you make Mommy mad? You need to apologize to her right now!”

“Hmm,” Zaden let out a low hum. He looked toward Athena’s closed door and said softly, “I want to do that. But your mom doesn’t want to see me.”

So she really was angry.

Zaden had known Athena for years, but he had never seen her lose her temper like this. She was usually calm and composed. This was the first time she had ever been truly mad at him.

Zaden rubbed his temples, then reached out a hand toward Teri. “Come on,” he said gently. “I’m taking you to school today. Maybe by the time you get home, Mommy will have cooled off.”

Teri’s worried face finally softened at his words.

She nodded and slipped her small hand into his. Together, they walked away. Soon, the house grew quiet again. Inside the bedroom, Athena had been listening closely. When the hallway went completely silent, she finally exhaled and relaxed her shoulders.

She touched her forehead, a wry smile tugging at her lips. She was such a coward for hiding in her room.

Just then, her phone buzzed. It was a message from Kate. “Hey, what time are you getting to the hospital today?”

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5:44 pm

Chapter 262 Daddy’s in Trouble

Finished

Athena suddenly remembered, today was her first day reporting in. It seemed Kate wanted to back her up.

Last time, Athena hadn’t leaned on Kate’s support, and that mistake had nearly cost her. This time, Kate was worried and texted early to make sure she was safe.

Kate wasn’t just a teacher to her. She was family. Athena’s adoptive parents had passed away long ago. She hadn’t felt much warmth growing up. But Kate had filled that space, guiding her like a mother would. Because of her, Athena never truly felt alone.

Taking a breath, Athena calmed her thoughts and replied to Kate’s message.

Then she packed her things, ready to report to the hospital.

She wanted to leave a good first impression, so she chose a bright–colored suit and light makeup that brought out her features. When she looked in the mirror, she looked fresh, confident, and ready.

Once everything was in place, Athena opened her door.

The villa was silent. Zaden and Teri were already gone.

Not running into them made her feel unexpectedly relieved.

Stepping outside, she called a cab and headed for the hospital to start her new day.

Half an hour later, Athena arrived at the hospital. Kate was already waiting at the entrance, looking as harp as ever in her white lab coat, her hair pulled neatly into a bun. “Athena, you’re here!” Kate greeted her warmly. “I’ve already arranged everything for you. You just need to go over and check in.”

Before Athena could thank her, Kate added, “You’re probably not familiar with the place yet. I’ll have omeone show you around later.”

With Kate’s help, the onboarding process went incredibly smoothly. Athena barely ran into any trouble at

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soon, she had her own consultation room specializing in needle therapy. It was worlds apart from her old work as a surgeon, but she adapted quickly.

Even though she’d been a full–time housewife for the past eight years, she had never stopped studying nedicine. After losing the ability to perform surgeries, this became the one skill she could truly rely on.

Over the years, her knowledge and technique had only grown stronger.

‘Come on,” Kate said with a smile. “I’ll introduce you to everyone in the departments.”

As they walked, it became clear that Kate wasn’t just giving a tour–she was making a statement.

She wanted everyone to know Athena was under her protection. Anyone who dared to mess with her

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