I gave birth at 41, and my husband abandoned me for an 18-year-old. “That old hag’s child is probably stupid anyway,” he said. 15 years later, at the admission ceremony, he and his lover were ruined in just three seconds. onMay 7, 2026

Chapter 3: The Ceremony

Fifteen years later, that moment arrived.

The ceremony took place at St. Alden’s Academy, a historic institution known for excellence. Only twelve students in the country had been selected for an elite research fellowship.

Noah was one of them.

He stood at the front of the hall, composed, confident—everything his father never believed he could be.

That’s when Adrian showed up.

Of course he did.

Dressed well. Polished. With Lena at his side, still clinging to the image they had built together.

“Impressive,” he said, glancing at Noah. “Let’s see if it’s really worth all the effort.”

Lena smiled faintly. “Some people peak late, I suppose.”

I simply replied, “You might want to pay attention.”