From Betrayal to Brilliance Her Rise to a New Life novel Chapter 353

**TITLE: Her Rise 353**
**Chapter 353: A Small Cookie, Big Trouble**

Zaden narrowed his eyes, a flicker of irritation crossing his face.

Teri, with her innocent curiosity, looked up at him and declared, “Daddy, your cookies must be really bad. That’s why no one wanted to eat them.”

“Oh, is that so?” Zaden replied, his voice laced with sarcasm.

In that moment, a heavy silence enveloped the room. Everyone froze, their thoughts racing in disbelief.

Wait a second—those cookies that Athena had brought were crafted by Zaden himself?

Was this really happening?

Zaden surveyed the crowd, his expression shifting to one of mild annoyance. “I apologize, but my wife isn’t exactly a culinary expert. I made those cookies for her, and it seems they didn’t quite meet the expectations of some.”

The women who had previously aimed their barbs at Athena suddenly found themselves hesitant. None dared to challenge Zaden; he was the head of Storm Group, after all. His influence loomed large, and even their families relied on him for favors.

“Yeah, Willy wanted to try one, but his mom told him no,” Teri chimed in, her voice ringing with the thrill of snitching.

Zaden turned to Vivian, his gaze contemplative.

At that moment, the teacher stepped in to diffuse the tension. “Mr. Storm, this is merely a misunderstanding. We began tasting from that side of the table, and we simply haven’t gotten to your cookies yet.”

With that, the atmosphere shifted. Parents who had previously halted their children from reaching for the cookies now surged forward, eager to grab one.

In mere moments, the cookies had vanished, leaving Athena speechless as she observed the swift change in allegiances. It was astonishing how quickly people could flip their loyalties.

What truly surprised her was Zaden’s unexpected appearance. He hadn’t needed to take any grand action; his mere presence alone spoke volumes in support of her. A warm sensation blossomed within her chest, a feeling she hadn’t anticipated.

Zaden discreetly pulled out his phone and stepped away, making a call to Tommy.

**14:52 Thu, Nov 27**
**Chapter 353: A Small Cookie, Big Trouble**

After a brief interval, he returned, a hint of satisfaction in his demeanor.

Athena squinted, her instincts telling her that Zaden had done something significant to assist her. He hadn’t resorted to any overt displays of power to handle the families involved, had he?

Curiosity piqued, she tugged at Zaden’s arm and whispered, “What did you just do?”

“Nothing,” he replied, his tone casual.

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