Chapter 328 Unraveled Plans
The confrontation was swift and decisive. "Your instigation of bullying won't be overlooked. I'll be recommending disciplinary action," Commander Jackson declared, his steely gaze fixed on Lucine without a hint of favor.
"Commander Jackson..." Lucine began, but her plea was cut short.
Without missing a beat, Jackson turned his attention to Amelia and her group. "You're all complicit. A three-thousand-word reflective essay is in order—no less."
The group opened their mouths to object, but Jackson was already addressing Lucas. "You, a ten-thousand-word self-criticism, plus a major demerit. Fail to comply, and your place here is forfeit!"
Lucas stood to attention, offering a crisp salute. "Yes, sir!"
Turning to a more pleasant task, Jackson nodded at Abella. "You've endured much. Take tomorrow off—the entire medical squad."
"Thank you, sir," Abella said, handing over the flag, and with a few companions, then she left.
Once out of earshot, Joanna probed, "Do you know the Commander? He was quite courteous to you..."
Abella shook her head. "I don't, but it seems he's aware of me. My trouble today could've implicated more than just a company commander..."
Samuel, intrigued by her demeanor, quipped, "You come from a notable family, perhaps?"
"Just merchants," Abella downplayed.
"Our families are also in commerce..." Arthur began but was interrupted by an idea. "We've triumphed together today. Why not celebrate with a meal?"
Despite their initial reluctance, Abella and Clare were swayed by the unanimous enthusiasm from Joanna and Josie.
The group settled on a cozy eatery on the university town's bustling commercial street. Mid-meal, Isla arrived, accompanied by a male student.
"I feel guilty for these frequent treats..." Isla's flirtatious tone was light, yet her companion dismissed her concerns with a laugh, then offered to dine there daily.
As they chose a table near the lake, Isla's eyes met Abella's, and her expression soured. No other tables were free, so she reluctantly sat down, aiming for discretion.
"What'll you have?" the male student asked, passing Isla the menu.
Isla's tastes had changed since her days of fine dining. Now, she was dining on a suitor's dime. She ordered sneaking peeks at Abella, who seemed to pay her no mind.
"To Clare, for saving me from drowning today," Joanna toasted, lifting her drink.
Clare smiled. "We're in this together."
Josie followed suit, thanking Samuel, Arthur, and Clare, then turned to Abella. "And to you, for getting even on my behalf."
Their celebration was interrupted by a nearby confession. The male student, his nerves palpable, asked Isla about her relationship status.
Clare, overhearing, couldn't resist. "He might be willing, but Isla's life is... complicated. Her ex-fiancé can attest to that."
"I don't know what you're talking about!" Isla snapped, her mortification palpable as all eyes turned to her.
The male student was taken aback, his image of Isla shattered.
"Jamie, if you're swayed by her words, then I'm leaving," Isla huffed, storming off.
Jamie was confused.
Clare sighed at the missed entertainment. Some men couldn't discern deceit from virtue.
The girls peppered Clare with questions, but she kept it brief, cautioning them against Isla's wiles.
Later, Samuel and Arthur excused themselves, while Abella's group headed back to the dorms.
Approaching the west gate, they saw Isla in a tense exchange with a woman.
"Isla, what are you doing here?" she demanded.
Daisy, the woman, thrust a bag at Isla. "Mom sent steamed buns for you—your childhood favorite. Share them with your dorm mates..."
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