Chapter 24 Chapter 24 Quick as a flash , the teacher handed Lemira a set of questions , Timer starts now Lemifa sat down , grabbed a pen , and dove into the test . The office fell into a hushed silence , all eyes on Lemira The teacher , closest to her , watched Lemira work through the math problems , his eyebrows lifting in surprise . The questions were significantly tougher than those on the last exam , yet Lemira was getting them mostly right ! Minutes ticked by Evelina , curious about the offices sudden interest , wandered over and caught sight of Lemira with her test . A bad feeling twisted in her gut She sidled up to Alaric , Alaric , what are you doing ? Is Lemmy doing a retake or something ? Alaric snorted , Exactly . She refuses to admit she cheated . Well make her admit defeat this time . Evelina hurried over to Lemira , Lemmy , dont be so hard on yourself . We all believe in you . You dont need to force yourself .* Lemira didnt respond or even acknowledge Evelina , determined not to let her break her focus . Seeing her words had no effect , Evelina bit her lip and glanced back at Alaric , Alaric , Lemmy is still mad at me . Alarics patience snapped , Lemira , Eves talking to you . Are you deaf ? Lemira looked up , Im taking a test . Cant you see ? Alaric was momentarily lost for words , Eves trying to give you an out . You should take it before you embarrass yourself : Evelina , please dont disturb Lemira while shes working on the test . Lets discuss whatever it is after shes finished , the teacher couldnt stand it anymore and intervened , clearly impressed with Lemiras performance . It seemed increasingly likely that Lemira hadnt cheated after all . Evelina , feeling upset yet trying to play the good girl , said , I didnt mean anything by it . But deep down , she didnt want Lemira to prove that shes capable , couldnt stand the thought of Lemira outshining her , nor could she allow it to happen . As she stood there , skepticism crept in . Lemira couldnt possibly score well , could she ? Yet , witnessing Lemiras recent transformation unnerved her . Finally , time was up . The teacher collected the test and , along with other faculty members , began grading it swiftly . Lemira sat calmly , her emotions steady even as Evelina hovered near Alaric . Detachment had shielded her from hurt . Soon enough , the teacher announced excitedly , We have the results . Evelina peeked over , her heart dark with malice , hoping Lemira had failed . Alaric spoke coldly , If its bad , lets not embarrass us by saying it out loud . No , Lemira did exceptionally well ! This test was even more challenging than the last , and yet she scored higher ! Lemiras anxiety melted away as she heard it , a small smile playing on her lips . Alarics face crumbled as he snatched the test to see for himself . The numbers didnt lie . Lemira had aced it . Evelina , standing on tiptoes , also saw the score and felt a surge of jealousy . Since when had Lemira become so capable ? This was unimaginable ! The principal , an affable old man , declared , The truth is clear . Lemira has made incredible progress through her own efforts . The teacher nodded in agreement , Lemira has indeed been working hard . Alarics expressions flickered like a kaleidoscope , finally settling as he placed the test back on the desk , coming to terms with the fact that Lemira hadnt cheated . Suddenly , Lemira seemed like a stranger to him . The principal coughed , Now that the truth is out , those who slandered Lemira owe her an apology . Evelinas face twisted in embarrassment . In "Cross My Heart and Hope to Die" by CrushReel, Zoe Hale takes a daring step by marrying Ashton Cross, a man under suspicion for her sister's mysterious demise. As their relationship evolves, hidden truths unravel, intertwining love and suspense in this captivating romance novel. Exploring the complexities of loyalty and deception, the story delves deep into Zoe's quest for justice while navigating the unexpected twists of her heart. The enigmatic bond between Zoe and Ashton unfolds against a backdrop of secrets and revelations, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with each turn of the page. Set in a blend of romance and drama, "Cross My Heart and Hope to Die" stands out for its intricate character dynamics and the seamless fusion of passion and intrigue. With every chapter, CrushReel skillfully crafts a narrative that immerses readers in a world where love confronts darkness, leaving them yearning for more. Discover the enthralling saga of Zoe and Ashton, available to read at CrushReel. Immerse yourself in this unique tale that defies conventions and promises an unforgettable literary experience.