REED

Nelly's confrontation with Lilian still lingered in the air. Summer thanked Nelly again for defending her.

As they packed up to leave, Nelly noticed Jade lingering outside the classroom. His eyes locked onto hers, filled with regret.

Jade approached Nelly, his voice hesitant. "Hey, Nelly. Can we talk?"

Nelly's expression hardened. "What's left to say, Jade?"

Jade took a deep breath. "I was wrong to use you. I realize now that I truly cared for you."

Nelly raised an eyebrow. "You think a simple apology erases everything?"

Jade nodded. "I know I don't deserve forgiveness, but I hope—"

Nelly cut him off. "You're too late, Jade. I've moved on."

Jade's face fell, but Nelly continued.

"You taught me to see people's true colors. I've changed, Jade. I won't be blinded again."

With a calculated smile, Nelly handed Jade a small mirror.

"Look at yourself, Jade. See the manipulator, the user. You'll never change."

Jade's eyes widened as he gazed into the mirror.

Nelly turned to leave, but not before delivering the final blow.

"Your biggest mistake was underestimating me."

As Nelly walked away with Summer, Jade stood frozen, the mirror still clutched in his hand.

Meanwhile, Kingsley watched from afar, his interest in Summer reignited.

Reed approached Nelly, his expression thoughtful. "You handled Jade well."

Nelly smiled. "Thanks, Reed. I've learned to stand up for myself."

Lilian, still nursing her wounds, seethed with anger.

"This isn't over, Nelly," she muttered to herself.

The stage was set for a new chapter in Nelly's life, one where she held the reins.

Kingsley's intentions remain focused on winning Summer over, despite her repeated rejections.

Kingsley continued to pursue Summer, undeterred by her clear disinterest.

Summer grew uneasy, sensing Kingsley's persistent gaze.

Nelly noticed Kingsley's behavior and warned Summer.

"Stay alert, Summer. Kingsley's not giving up."

Summer nodded, grateful for Nelly's protection.

Meanwhile, Lilian and Jade's alliance gained momentum.

Their shared goal: bring Nelly down.

Reed remained vigilant, monitoring Kingsley's movements.

"What's driving Kingsley's obsession with Summer?" Reed wondered.

As tensions escalated, Nelly's circle prepared for an impending storm.

Lilian and Jade concocted a plan to tarnish Nelly's reputation.

"We need something big," Lilian said, her eyes gleaming with malice.

Jade nodded. "I've got an idea."

They began spreading rumors about Nelly's alleged involvement with a teacher.

The lies spread like wildfire, and soon the school was abuzz.

Nelly's friends rallied around her, but the damage was done.

Summer's unease with Kingsley intensified as he continued to pursue her.

Red remained concerned for Nelly's well-being, offering support.