Chapter 28 Sensing her emotions , Professor Carter gently patted her shoulder . " It's good to have you back , Sarah . That's what matters . " Sarah looked up , meeting his warm , encouraging gaze . Her nose tingled slightly as she held back a surge of emotion . Turning to the crowd of eager students and a visibly stunned Lucy , Professor Carter continued with a smile , " Yes , Sarah was indeed one of my students . The psychology department granted her indefinite academic leave because we didn't want to lose such a talent . During her time here , Sarah not only completed her coursework in record time , but also worked with the police , mental health facilities , and counseling centers , contributing immensely to the field . She's only one step away from graduating . So yes , she's more than qualified to be a counsellor here . " His voice radiated pride and respect for Sarah . The students ' faces lit up with newfound admiration for Sarah . But then , Professor Carter's expression turned stern as he addressed Lucy . " I've heard about the malicious comments circulating on the forum recently , targeting faculty members . As students , you should focus on learning and personal growth , not petty revenge or jealousy . The university will handle such violations according to policy . Let this be a lesson to everyone . " After finishing his remarks , he gave Sarah a reassuring nod and walked away . All eyes turned toward Lucy . After her confession in the dinning commons earlier , everyone knew she was the one who started the post . The professor's warning had clearly been aimed at her . Lucy couldn't believe Sarah was actually the department's legendary student . Face burning under everyone's stares and terrified by the professor's warning , she fled the scene . As the commotion died down , several students approached Sarah , brimming with questions and admiration . Sarah just smiled politely , answering only briefly before leaving with Mia . Mia beamed , her eyes twinkling with joy as she clung to Sarah's arm , " Sarah , I had no idea you were such a legend ! You even have the vice - dean standing up for you . Lucy ran away like a scared puppy … " " Don't exaggerate . Professor Carter isn't like that , " Sarah corrected gently . " I'm not as impressive as you think . The professors here are just patient and kind to their students . " She couldn't help but sigh , reflecting on the path she'd chosen . Her professors had known she'd sacrificed her dreams for love and still invited her back . It was the integrity and kindness of people like Professor Carter that made her feel supported . Mia stopped walking and looked Sarah in the eyes . " It's because you're special . We all care about you and want to support you . " Seeing Mia's sincere gaze , Sarah was momentarily taken aback , then softened into a warm smile. After leaving the cafeteria , Sarah returned to the psychology center . Not long after , the school issued a disciplinary notice for Lucy and her friend , and the entire forum post was deleted . 1/2 Chapter 26 +15 Bonus Instead , the psychology forum filled with appreciation posts for their " legendary senior" - now known as Counsellor Sanders . At four in the afternoon , Mia's class ended just as Sarah was wrapping up her work . Mia rushed over , waiting for Sarah so they could head home together . Not wanting to keep her waiting , Sarah packed up quickly , and they left together . As they walked , Mia leaned close , her voice low , her eyes twinkling . " Sarah , my brother said he's coming to pick me up . Why don't you join us for dinner ? " Zachary ? Sarah paused , her heart suddenly skipping a beat at the thought of the man with his calm yet commanding presence .