From Betrayal to Brilliance Her Rise to a New Life novel Chapter 292

Chapter 292: The Real Traitor

Zaden had intended to handle the investigation into the leak himself, wanting to protect Athena from the stress. Yet, to his surprise, Athena insisted on taking matters into her own hands. He knew her well enough to understand that once she set her mind on something, there was no turning back.

After a moment’s hesitation, he finally relented. “Alright,” he said firmly. “You find out who the culprit is first. Once you do, I’ll deal with them. I promise, they won’t forget the lesson I’ll teach.”

Hearing his words, Athena’s irritation softened. Maybe Zaden wasn’t as bad as she had thought after all.

The following morning, Athena returned to the medical research institute to resume her training. This time, she was more vigilant than ever. From the moment she crossed the threshold, she carefully observed everyone she encountered, paying close attention to their words, gestures, and expressions.

The first person she noticed was Lucy, the blonde receptionist. Athena was aware that Lucy harbored feelings for Zaden, but she chose to keep that knowledge to herself. She greeted Lucy politely, “Good morning, Lucy.” Lucy responded, but her voice carried an unmistakable impatience. As soon as Athena passed by, Lucy rolled her eyes in disdain.

Could Lucy be involved? Athena wondered. Although Lucy wouldn’t have had direct access to the leaked footage, there might be other ways she could have obtained it.

A heavy weight settled over Athena’s chest as she proceeded toward the operating room. Roxanne was already waiting by the door, her presence calm and composed.

Pushing her suspicions aside, Athena offered a polite smile. “Good morning, Dr. Wood.”

Roxanne nodded in return. “Athena, you’re here at last. Let’s begin today’s procedure. Yesterday was your first attempt—you were probably nervous. Don’t worry about it. Today, just stay relaxed and do your best. Even if you make a mistake, it’s okay.”

Roxanne’s gentle encouragement brought a small warmth to Athena’s heart. She nodded in gratitude. “Thank you, Dr. Wood. I’ll give it my all.”

Today’s task was another surgical simulation, but this one carried significant weight. Several prominent medical professors were scheduled to observe the procedure. Failure in front of such esteemed figures could destroy Athena’s reputation permanently, possibly closing the door on her medical career forever.

Unbeknownst to Athena, Roxanne had her own agenda. She was poised to send the surgery footage to Maya the instant Athena faltered. This was an easy way for Roxanne to curry favor with Maya and inch closer to Preston. Just the thought of Preston softened the stern look on her face.

Athena remained oblivious to Roxanne’s secret intentions. She suspected nearly everyone else—the receptionist, some of the assistants—but never Roxanne. The doctor’s calm, professional demeanor had made a strong, positive impression on her, blinding her to any potential betrayal.

Together, they stepped into the operating room.

The simulation involved a minimally invasive procedure to remove a brain tumor. Besides Roxanne standing quietly on the sidelines, three assistant doctors and two nurses were there to support Athena. However, Athena was fully in charge of the operation.

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