Professor Wright's eyes met mine across the crowded room. I held my breath, waiting for his reaction. The space around us seemed to freeze as everyone anticipated his response to Hazel's accusation.
To everyone's surprise, he smiled warmly.
"Juliana," he said, extending his hand to me. "Why don't you come sit with me? It's been too long since we've had a proper conversation."
Confused murmurs rippled through the crowd. I stepped forward, ignoring the stunned faces around me.
"I'd be honored, Professor," I replied, following him to a table near the front of the room.
Hazel's mouth dropped open. "But Professor! She's claiming to be Dr. Emma Bella! That's ridiculous!"
The professor settled into his chair and gestured for me to take the seat beside him. "Is it?" he asked calmly.
Benjamin stepped forward. "Professor Wright, I apologize for creating this scene at your birthday celebration. But these people have been belittling Juliana for years, and I couldn't stand it anymore."
