The Running Commentary That Fueled My Comeback

I'd always pictured Henry and me getting married and spending forever together after graduation.

But just two years after I became his girlfriend, he had another woman assume my identity to "find her real family."

"Henry, am I your first love?" I asked, struggling to keep my voice steady.

Henry lowered his head, casually brushing away imaginary dust from the potato sack.

"Of course, Penelope. You're my first love."

[He's lying! This scumbag deserves to rot for deceiving you!]

A bitter sting filled my nose. I lowered my gaze, disappointment crashing over me.

Clara entered the orphanage when we were just ten years old.

With her mesmerizing voice and striking beauty, she quickly grew attached to Henry, trailing him around every day.

Henry considered her a nuisance at first, but with time, he became more accepting of her. Soon enough, he was inviting her to eat and play with us.

Just thinking about Clara calling my name with such tenderness made my fists clench.

Who could have guessed what the two of them had conspired behind my back?

Together, they kept the truth from me, allowing Clara to step into my shoes as the Wright family's daughter.

Now that the Wrights had arrived to give their speech, Henry was trying to ruin my appearance to keep them from recognizing me.

No. I had to take back what was mine.

I couldn't let them keep the lies going any longer.

"Henry, my stomach hurts. I need to use the restroom."

With those words, I turned and made my way toward the auditorium.

Inside, Victor and Ursula had already finished their speech. Now, Clara was on stage.

Dressed in a luxurious, custom-tailored gown, her makeup was impeccable. Her hair was styled flawlessly, and even her hairpin sparkled with diamonds.

She spoke with poise, every word carefully chosen.

"This scholarship program for underprivileged students is something I've dedicated myself to. I'm incredibly grateful to my parents for their constant support.

"Without them, I wouldn't be where I am today, and this project wouldn't have helped so many students pursue their academic dreams.

"But unfortunately, one friend of mine never received the scholarship over these three years. She would often approach me privately.

"Anyway, what I want to emphasize is that opportunities are given to those who are truly prepared."

I knew all too well that she was referring to me.

[What a spiteful villain! The heroine didn't miss out on the scholarship because of bad grades!]

[Exactly. Clara deliberately sabotaged it, preventing her from meeting the requirements!]

[Damn, she's cold and calculating. Only those who get the scholarship are allowed to take a photo with Mr. and Mrs. Wright. It's clear Clara and Henry are just afraid the truth will come out!]

My heart lurched.

For three years, I had consistently ranked first in my major. Yet somehow, I always fell just short of meeting the scholarship's requirements.

I had even approached Henry and Clara privately, expressing my frustration. But all they did was dismiss me.

"Penelope, this month's pay is enough to get us through. Don't worry about it."

"Don't be sad, Penelope. You'll definitely get it next time!"

They pretended to comfort me, but the truth was, they had cut off my scholarship and ensured I'd never have a chance to see my parents.

My eyes shifted to Victor and Ursula. Their expressions were filled with pride as they looked at Clara on stage.

Just as I was about to say something, a hand slammed over my mouth, pulling me back forcefully.

"Penelope, don't cause trouble at such an important event. Let's get back to work."

[He's a horrible person! He's been living it up with Clara, yet he still insists on making the heroine suffer!]

I recognized Henry's voice. Enraged, I stomped hard on his foot.

He let out a cry of pain, but his grip on me remained firm.

On stage, Clara noticed us.

Her eyes widened for a moment. She quickly regained her composure and whispered something into Ursula's ear.

Ursula's face tightened with worry as she helped Clara down from the stage.

[She's so cunning. I can't believe she pretended to be sick just to avoid being exposed.]

[What a manipulative vixen!]