Deadly Plan: How Will I Survive?

Just by looking at Linda’s expression, I could tell that her mistake was serious, not some minor error.

Thinking of this, I had some thoughts in my mind, but I kept my composure and gently gave her some suggestions.

“The instructor values accurate data, so it’s normal for him to criticize when something goes wrong. Once he calms down, you should apologize.”

“Why should I apologize to him? I don’t even want to be a graduate student anymore," she snapped.

Ever since Linda started dating that wealthy guy, she had become increasingly arrogant and dismissive.

She paused, about to continue her rant, when she turned and noticed my face. She looked startled. “Yasmine, why is the scar at the corner of your eye gone?”

I decided not to reveal the truth. Casually, I replied, “That scar was small but annoying to look at every day. The beauty salon had a promotion, so I decided to have it removed with a laser treatment.”

As I spoke, a theory formed in my mind.

Could it be that fixing the scar had disrupted Linda’s ability to siphon off my luck? If so, it might explain why her own luck was faltering now.

If this was true, Linda wouldn’t be able to hold on to the graduate position she had secured through underhanded means.

Linda’s eyes widened in anger. They practically glowed with fury, and her voice turned harsh. “Why didn’t you tell me you were getting the scar removed?”

I knew exactly what she was worried about. Inside, I was laughing at her panic, but I replied evasively, “Oh, come on. It was just a little scar. It didn’t cost much. Do I need to ask for your permission or compensation?”

My vague response clearly frustrated her. She struggled to hide her anger, finally managing to calm herself down. With a forced smile, she spoke.

“I’m just in a bad mood today. Don’t take it personally. By the way, my cousin Garret’s visiting tonight. Let’s go out for dinner together!”

I had expected Linda to act, but not so quickly.

Her impatience could work to my advantage, giving Sherwood a chance to meet the man sooner and break whatever spell was affecting me.

With a deeper smile, I agreed.

“Sure, I haven’t had a decent meal or good sleep in days because of the project. Now that it’s over, I’m ready for a nice dinner.”

“The project that was about to collapse... you managed to save it?”

Linda’s anger, simmering earlier, now boiled over.

Her eyes blazed with fury. If looks could kill, I’d be dead.

“Yeah, if everything goes well, I’ll be a full-time employee by graduation.”

Feigning fear at her intense reaction, I took a step back and asked softly.

“Linda, what’s wrong? Are you upset that I managed to negotiate the deal?”

“No, of course I’m happy for you.”

Linda was cunning. She quickly recovered from her outburst and forced an awkward smile, biting her lip.

“Rest for a bit. Let me ask when Garret will arrive.”

Okay."

I ignored Linda and started unpacking my things, then texted Sherwood, inviting him to join us for dinner.

His response was quick and to the point: [OK.]

With Sherwood’s confirmation, I felt a wave of relief. Pretending to scroll through my phone, I kept a close eye on Linda.