Chapter Sixty one

"ISABELLA Heyes, Magna cum laude!"

I stood proudly, hearing the applause of everyone. As I walked across the stage, I noticed some students awkwardly glancing at me. For almost a year, I've been trying to find my purpose, attempting to move on from the past, but some things are just too difficult to let go.

After receiving my diploma, I gave a speech to my batchmates. The cameras captured my every move, and I knew this would make headlines again. Most of my activities were already in the news, so I preferred staying at home or in my condo to enjoy solitude.

Despite not being the valedictorian, they still asked me to give a speech. I didn't mind, considering the valedictorian also spoke.

"Oh, why does our Disney princess look sad?" I shot a look at Dad for his remarks, but later, I smiled and hugged him along with Mommy Emely, Dad's new wife who just arrived from Europe.

"Congratulations, my daughter! We're very proud of you!" They embraced me warmly, and I couldn't help but notice th