Chapter 46
Never mind that these photos were taken after her divorce from James – even if they weren’t, all they showed was her getting into
someone’s car. Hardly damning evidence!
Unlike last time, students weren’t blindly joining in the criticism. While there were plenty of nasty comments, many students
were defending her.
Sarah scrolled through the comments section.
“Someone must have it out for Miss Sanders. Why do they keep trying to smear her on the forum? One ambiguous photo proves
nothing.”
“Where there’s smoke, there’s fire. Why is she the only one getting these accusations?”
“Forget everything else – can’t believe she’s already divorced at her age!”
Meanwhile, in the Dean’s office at Adams University:
“Dean Larson, I’ve explained everything. Having Sarah as a daughter–in–law was already an embarrassment to the Chancer family. How dare Adams hire someone like her? Aren’t you worried about the university’s reputation?”
Mrs. Chancer sat on the office sofa, sipping tea while imperiously questioning the Dean.
Professor Wells, Sarah’s mentor, sat opposite, bristling with anger. “Mrs. Chancer, these are serious accusations that require
actual evidence. Sarah is my star student. Coming here to spread rumors based on one heavily edited photo is outrageous!”
Mrs. Chancer dismissed Professor Wells entirely, fixing her shrewd gaze on the Dean. “For the Chancer family, one photo is
enough. Dean Larson, don’t forget – while our share on the Board of Trustees may be small, we are still members. Hiring someone of Sarah’s… character shows complete disregard for the Board. Perhaps Adams no longer needs the Board’s funding?”
Using power to intimidate was Mrs. Chancer’s specialty.
Sure enough, the Dean’s expression wavered.
Adams valued talent, but they couldn’t afford to alienate the Board.
The Dean considered carefully before suggesting, “Mrs. Chancer, what if we handle it this way? While the photo is concerning, we
need proper evidence. Let’s call a leadership meeting and have Sarah present her side. If the allegations prove true, we’ll take
appropriate action. Would that work?”
Mrs. Chancer rolled her eyes but recognized this as a compromise. She didn’t push for an immediate decision – the Chancers had
to maintain appearances, after all. Besides, she had other bombshells ready.
The Dean signaled Professor Wells to fetch Sarah, then started emailing the administration about the meeting. 1
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Professor Wells shook his head resignedly and complied.
Catching a glimpse of Mrs. Chancer’s spiteful expression as he left to make the call, he felt sorry for Sarah. Was this really the family his bright student had sacrificed her studies to marry into?
How much had she suffered these past years?
Sarah was still reading comments when her mentor called.
“Professor Wells?” she answered.
His steady voice came through: “Sarah, Mrs. Chancer is here demanding your dismissal… Would you like to come in?”
She noted how he posed it as a question rather than a summons.
Touched by his consideration but knowing he must be under pressure from administration, she didn’t want to make things
difficult for him. “Of course, Professor. I’ll be right there.”
