Ivy's POV
"Who the fuck do you think you are?" Ada stepped into my personal space, her face contorted with rage. "Who are you to talk down to me?" She practically spat the words, which only made me laugh.
I raised my hands defensively, shopping basket dangling from one wrist. "Look, my identity isn't really your problem. But it seems awfully convenient that you're claiming credit for something that was supposed to remain anonymous."
Ada moved even closer, her perfume overwhelming. "Just because Professor R defended you doesn't mean I fear you. Professor R is a man. And men are predictable—their attention always shifts. Let me be crystal clear: he's mine. He might be on your side today, but he'll come back to me."
I glanced up, met her hostile gaze, and burst into laughter. "What the hell does Professor R have to do with you lying about donating money?"
"I just want you to understand," she hissed, "that just because he stood up for you today doesn't mean he'll protect you now."
