Chapter 160 Do You Know How Annoying You Are?
Mia's gaze flitted between the couple and Riley perched alone, a sense of self-satisfaction washing over her. Finding a pretext, she sidestepped the elders.
"Why's Dr. Monroe all by herself?"
Amidst her jumbled thoughts, Riley had sought solace in a quiet nook to collect herself when a caustic voice sliced through her solitude. Meeting Mia's smug stance before her, Riley's brows knit, irritation bristling within. Earlier, Mia had extolled Donovan and Hollis in front of esteemed company, a veiled jab clearly aimed at Riley. Unanticipated was Mia's pursuit even after Riley's retreat.
Oblivious to Riley's chagrin, Mia regarded her disdainfully, a pointed gesture towards Donovan and Hollis in the crowd. "See that? It's Donovan and Hollis, the real deal acknowledged by all. And you? Just jealous, huh? Know your place. Donovan's beyond your reach. He and Hollis orbit in the same universe."
Riley couldn't stifle a cold chuckle at Mia's words.
Mia's brow creased. "What's so funny?"
Nonchalantly, Riley shrugged. "Just marveling at how devoted sycophants are these days."
Sycophants? Mia faltered momentarily, comprehension dawning, her expression souring as she jabbed a finger towards Riley. "Who're you calling a sycophant?"
Rising leisurely, Riley retorted composedly, "Anyone else here besides you? Ms. Benedict, spare me your ostentation. Donovan's romantic entanglements bear no relevance to me. Your incessant mentions don't faze me in the least."
Her sudden rising injected a palpable tension into Mia, rendering the latter speechless. Riley smirked, nonchalantly brushing past Mia. "No need to parade your trivialities before me. Your incessant chatter is insufferable. Ever considered what a bother you are?"
With that, Riley strode off without a backward glance.
Shaken by the encounter, Mia grappled with Riley's lingering impact, seething over their exchange. Despite her urge to retaliate, Riley had vanished.
Riley hastened away, eager to distance herself from Mia's provocations, wary of her own potential reactions. Forced to relinquish the nook usurped by Mia, she sought a fresh secluded spot, this time within closer proximity to the gathered throng - precisely opposite Donovan.
Upon her appearance, Donovan's gaze skated towards her, fixating on her presence.
Desiring a moment's respite, Riley was abruptly cast under a shadow.
"Hi, pleasure to meet you. May I inquire about your family background?" A courteous, scholarly young man stood before Riley.
Taken aback, Riley forced a smile. "Apologies, I'm just a doctor."
Surprised yet gracious, the young man smiled, "Your poise had me assuming noble lineage. Might I request your contact information for a potential friendship?"
