Page 282 of In Love with a Cruel Billionaire

"In addition to what Ms. Lowell has shared..." It was the professor speaking again, and Diana found herself shrinking back at the sound.

"I'd like to make one other thing clear, for the express purpose of keeping any of us from wasting each other's time."

The deep timbre of his words was more than enough to threaten her equilibrium, and her chest rose and fell at a more rapid fashion as staying calm remained an uphill battle.

Overcome existing and preconceived boundaries...inhibit creative or divergent thinking...impede the potential for growth and advancement...

She strove to concentrate on the professor's words, but they kept going over her head.

Speak and explore ideas freely...no place for snowflakes...won't get anything done if all of us have to waste time tiptoeing...worrying about verbally fragile egos...

Diana noticed a couple of students stiffening in their seats and wondered if she had missed something rather important.

For those inclined to stay in this class, what I can promise you...we will all be bound to observe rules of civility and common courtesy...anyone found guilty of bullying...dealt accordingly."

The sudden sound of clapping around her startled Diana, and she unthinkingly lifted her head in bemusement, all thoughts of clear and present danger forgotten until it was too late.

No, no, no—-

But what was done was done, and what she had been avoiding had happened.

Leonine eyes collided with her gaze, and they were as cold and furious as she dreaded. But more than that was the ruthless contempt which questioned her very existence in the room—-

YOU DON'T FUCKING LEARN, DO YOU?

A choking sound escaped Diana, and silence fell in the room as all eyes turned to her.

Together

THE PROFESSOR WAS,once again, reduced to cursing the girl in his mind.

Damn herfor coming here, thinking she could escape unscathed, anddamn him, for letting the sight of her big scared eyes get to him.

"Do you have something to say, Ms. Leventis?" he asked icily.

"No." The answer was barely audible.

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