"Miss Pruitt?" The reporter's voice carried a note of skepticism. "From what we understand, you've been Professor Morton's wife for ten years, with countless awards to your name. Why would you forge evidence to frame her?"
"Because of me."
A deep voice cut through the murmurs.
Fabian strode onto the stage, positioning himself protectively behind Doris.
"My wife and I had a disagreement. She's throwing a tantrum and taking it out on innocent people."
"Doris is my student. There's nothing wrong with her thesis. I stake my professional reputation on it."
The room fell deathly silent.
Everyone knew that Fabian Morton was one of Havenport's most prominent academic figures. When he put his reputation on the line, people believed him.
Even the reporters exchanged uncertain glances.
"Why would Professor Morton go this far to protect a female student?"
"According to our research, this Doris Fox doesn't have any particularly impressive credentials. Surely he wouldn't risk his entire reputation over a student's fraud?"
Whispers rippled through the crowd. There had to be some misunderstanding.
"Professional reputation?" I laughed, my voice carrying clearly to the stage. "Is Professor Morton's professional reputation built on enabling plagiarism? Or perhaps on gifting his wife's research to his mistress?"
Fabian's expression darkened instantly.
"Sara, stop this. We can talk about it at home."
He walked over and grabbed my wrist, but his voice dropped to a furious hiss near my ear.
"Did you arrange for these reporters?"
"You'd better send them away."
The threat in his tone was almost laughable.
I met his eyes and coldly shook off his grip.
"Home? Fabian, do you really think we still have a home?"
"And why should I do anything you say?"
Seeing that I had no intention of backing down, a flicker of panic crossed Fabian's eyes, though he struggled to maintain composure.
"Sara, do you really have to be this cruel?"
"It's just one thesis! Why do you have to go after Doris like this?"
His eyes had gone red with anger, his voice a furious growl in my ear.
I watched the vein pulsing at his temple, the desperation written across his face.
A cold smile tugged at my lips.
"The show hasn't even started yet, and you're already panicking?"
Fabian froze, looking up in confusion.
"What show?"
His brow furrowed. "Sara, what are you planning?"