Page 149 of Burning Bridges Duet

“I understand your perspective, Dean Thompson. I want to assure you that my intentions were never to harm or undermine the integrity of this college. The circumstances surrounding my enrollment were complex and driven by a need for safety and anonymity. I never intended to cause any harm to the college or its reputation,” she says, and the dean’s expression softens slightly, her eyes reflecting a mix of skepticism and curiosity.

“Ms. Michaels, I must emphasize the importance of honesty and trust within our academic community. I also recognize that people find themselves in extraordinary situations that can lead to unconventional choices. Therefore, I’m willing to consider a resolution that upholds the values of this institution while considering your unique circumstances.”

“Thank you, Dean Thompson,” Liv replies, a glimmer of hope shining through. “I’m genuinely grateful for your willingness to understand my situation.”

“I will need some time to reflect on this matter and consult with the other board members of the college,” she says as she straightens in her chair, her tone firm. “It may be beneficial if you could demonstrate your integrity and loyalty to our college by assisting in upholding its reputation.”

I furrow my brows. What the fuck does she want from her?

“Of course, I am more than willing to showcase my integrity to this college,” Liv says, remaining composed, her smile unwavering. “I’ve heard that the college is seeking funding for the renovation of the performance building. I believe I could help expedite this project significantly.”

“Are you suggesting that you could aid in advancing the renovation project?” the dean asks.

“You can inform the other board members that the entire project is accounted for,” Liv says, her smile frozen on her face.

The dean’s eyebrows lift, clearly taken aback by Liv’s offer. She stands up from her chair.

“That is a remarkably generous proposal, Ms. Michaels. I have no doubt that I’ll be able to persuade the rest of the board of your unique circumstances. Perhaps we can even consider naming the new facility the Baker Arts and Performance Center.”

“I’d prefer not to have special mention, Dean Thompson, as I’m more than happy to assist without seeking personal recognition,” Liv says, her smile faltering slightly. “Thank you for taking my situation into consideration. I hope I won’t cause you any further difficulties.”

As we rise from our seats, the dean extends her hand, and Liv accepts the gesture, shaking her hand firmly.

“Thank you. We’ll be in touch,” the dean says, a smile creeping across her face that sends a shiver down my spine. We exit the dean’s office, and make our way back toward the building’s entrance. Walking down a big stairway, I lean closer to Liv.

“What the heck was that? She acted like you just handed her a million dollars,” I whisper. Liv chuckles softly.

“Two,” she replies, her voice barely audible.

I turn my head to her. “Huh?”

“I gave her two million dollars,” she whispers. My steps falter, and I grip the railing to steady myself.

“You did what?” I ask, my voice a mixture of shock and disbelief. Liv tugs on my wrist, urging me to continue walking.

“Come on, Chase. I have to get to class,” she says, her tone laced with a hint of amusement.

Stunned, I follow her, my mind racing with what she just said. I mean, we all figured that she has money, but not to what extent. Jaxon and I invested the money from his fights, so we’re well off, but we could never just throw around two million dollars like it was peanuts. Questions swirl in my head, but I realize now is not the time. At least Liv’s actions seem to have secured her place at the college.

We get to the building where Liv’s classes are and notice only four reporters waiting outside. We quickly pass by them, ignoring their presence and not giving them any opportunity for comment or engagement. Inside the classroom, I take a seat beside Liv, grateful for the teachers who treat her as just another student, not drawing attention to her fame or my presence by her side.

Since I knew Liv’s major was dance, I wondered whether I should’ve chosen that subject instead of business administration and marketing, but after joining her for those two classes, I’m relieved that I didn’t. While I can clearly see it’s perfect for Liv, I would have been fucking bored and probably dropped out if I’d pursued it.

Just as we gather our stuff, getting ready to leave the classroom, two girls approach Liv’s desk. They resemble the type of girls I gravitated towards before Liv—easy lays.

“Hey, Olivia, how are you holding up after yesterday?” one of them asks Liv, concern in her voice. “It looked pretty intense.”

“Yeah, it must have been scary,” the other girl adds.

Liv lets out a frustrated huff and steps around them, walking towards the exit. As I move to follow her, the taller girl places a hand on my chest, her smile turning flirtatious.

“And you are?” she asks, and I raise an eyebrow, my expression flat.

“Not interested,” I reply curtly, removing her hand from me with two fingers before sidestepping her and catching up to Liv, who’s waiting for me by the door.

A smirk is on her face as I approach, and without hesitation, she pulls me into a passionate kiss. As the kiss breaks, Liv shoots the two girls a glare.

“Marking your territory, gorgeous?” I whisper in her ear, smiling. She links our pinky fingers.