Chapter 3 - The Stolen Glory
The betrayal happened exactly as Julian anticipated, yet it still stung.
Two weeks before graduation, Julian’s university access card was declined. His email was locked. When he arrived at the dean’s office, Preston and his father, Arthur Sterling, were waiting.
"Mr. Vance," the dean said, looking uncomfortable under Arthur Sterling’s heavy gaze. "We have evidence that you have been attempting to plagiarize Preston’s senior project. His family has already filed the patents."
"It's my code," Julian said quietly, looking directly at Preston.
Preston smirked, adjusting his designer tie. "Julian, you're a scholarship kid who cleans toilets. Who is the board going to believe? The heir to Sterling Investments, or a maid's son trying to steal a quick buck?"
May you like
Julian was expelled. No degree. No references. Blacklisted from the financial sector before his career even began. When he returned to his tiny apartment, he found his mother sitting at the kitchen table, holding a medical bill she couldn't pay. Her cough had worsened.
Julian knelt beside her, taking her calloused hands in his. "I promise you," he whispered, his voice trembling with a terrifying resolve. "They are going to pay for every tear you've ever shed."
