From Betrayal to Brilliance Her Rise to a New Life novel Chapter 321

**TITLE: Her Rise 321**
**CONTENT: Chapter 321 Spread That News**

As the barrage of questions from the reporters finally subsided, Maya adopted a mask of regret, her expression carefully crafted to evoke sympathy.

“I truly apologize, but it seems that Athena’s surgery encountered an unforeseen complication,” she explained, her voice steady but laced with a hint of concern.

This revelation sent ripples through the crowd, their curiosity ignited. Eager faces leaned in closer, each reporter hungry for more information.

“What kind of complication, Professor Rice? Can you shed some light on what transpired?” one of them pressed, his notepad poised and ready to capture every word.

Maya let out a soft sigh, maintaining her apologetic demeanor. “Initially, Athena was set to perform surgery on a patient at our hospital. However, it appears that the patient lost confidence in her abilities—perhaps after seeing that viral video of her struggling to hold a scalpel. At the last moment, they decided against allowing her to operate, and the surgery had to be called off.”

Gasps of surprise echoed through the assembled reporters.

A few nodded knowingly, their expressions shifting to one of understanding. After all, the footage of Athena’s mishap had circulated widely, and it was entirely plausible that a patient would reconsider their choice of surgeon after witnessing such a moment.

Sensing their reaction, Maya adopted a tone that was both empathetic and pleading. “I sincerely hope you won’t publish this information. It would be detrimental to Athena’s reputation, and she’s worked so hard to build it.”

One reporter hesitated, his brow furrowing. “Professor Rice, there are countless people invested in this story. Even if we choose not to report it, others will undoubtedly find a way to bring it to light. The truth has a way of surfacing, no matter what.”

Maya’s shoulders slumped slightly, her resolve wavering. “Then, fine. Just please, be gentle with her in your coverage,” she conceded, her heart heavy with the implications of her words.

The reporters exchanged glances, clearly impressed by her demeanor. “Professor Rice, you’re incredibly kind. Even after everything that’s happened, you still prioritize Athena’s reputation,” one of them remarked, admiration evident in his tone.

“Indeed, it’s commendable. But let’s be honest here—it’s ultimately Athena’s fault. She simply isn’t competent enough,” another chimed in, a hint of disdain creeping into his voice.

“Rest assured, Professor Rice, we’ll report everything as it is,” another reporter assured, a glint of determination in his eyes.

At this, a sly smirk crept onto Maya’s lips, barely contained. Athena hadn’t just faltered—her reputation lay in tatters. After this debacle, there would be no place for her in the medical world again.

Meanwhile, Preston lurked in the shadows of the hospital, his presence almost ghostly.

He waited in an empty room, anxiety gnawing at him as he anticipated updates regarding Athena’s surgery. When Lucas entered, his expression grim, Preston’s frown deepened.

“What happened? Wasn’t everything organized prior to the operation?” he demanded, his voice thick with frustration.

Lucas ran a hand through his hair, visibly exasperated. “Mr. Rice, it seems the patient must have seen those videos of Ms. Hall and lost faith in her abilities,” he explained, his tone heavy with disappointment.

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