Stronger Every Time I Die
Taylor shrugged off the criticisms nonchalantly. "Let them talk. It's not like I haven't been criticized before. I'm used to it, it doesn't bother me." He spent most of his days studying in the dorm, only occasionally attending classes when Hugo was around, not joining the others. As long as he stayed in, he hardly ever saw them. Their opinions couldn't touch him if his phone was off. The others were taken aback by Taylor's indifferent attitude. "Taylor, I didn't expect you to see through all this," Mia commented, surprised. Taylor spread his hands, "Ever since I joined Mr. Hugo's mentorship, I've had my fair share of critics. If I were to respond to everyone, I'd never get anything else done." He waved dismissively, "Their opinions don't affect me. I don't want to waste my time on them." Everyone exchanged looks. Mia couldn't help but remark, "Taylor, I didn't expect you could be so calm." Arthur pondered for a moment. After a pause, he said, "But we're being criticized for no reason, and clearly, it's Finley's doing. If we just let it go, who knows what more extreme actions they might take next." Mia and Sage nodded in agreement, clearly approving. While Taylor's resilient and carefree nature was commendable, his indifference could easily encourage others to push further, increasing the risk of harm. They were also surprised by Arthur's remarks. It turned out that the seemingly gentle Arthur had a vindictive streak. They liked it—and they were relieved. They didn't start trouble, but they certainly wouldn't let others walk over them. Hearing Arthur's words, Taylor fell into thought. Arthur was right! The old Taylor would have ignored issues that didn't affect him directly. But often, that just led others to take advantage of him. His indifference could make others think he was easy to bully, which only added to his troubles. It was as if Arthur's words had awakened something in Taylor.Taylor looked up determinedly, "You're right! We need to nip this in the bud!" The three were pleased to see Taylor catch on so quickly. "But how can we expose his true face?" Taylor asked, troubled. Arguing in the group chat was clearly not an option—it lacked persuasiveness. After some thought, Sage said, "Let's wait and see. If he's planned this far, he's sure to make another move." Everyone nodded in agreement. Finley wanted more than just to tarnish their reputations. That day marked the annual freshman welcome party. The issue with Arthur, Taylor, and Finley had brewed for days and was well-known throughout Governance University. Arthur and Taylor's lack of response led many to believe they were admitting to the accusations, too scared to show their faces. Finley hadn't made a move in days, making Arthur and Taylor wonder if he would strike again. Taylor's family was average, but Arthur had prepared a suit for him for the welcome party. Taylor held the suit in his hands, admiring it. "It's so beautiful! The craftsmanship, the material, it must be so comfortable to wear!" Arthur chuckled, "Then try it on and see if it fits." The suit was custom-made for Taylor, tailored to his measurements. Taylor gently touched the fabric, "I've never worn anything this nice! Is this really for me?" "Of course, it's for you. Or do you think I had it made just for you to look at?" Arthur joked. Taylor was a top student and frequently won scholarships. Though just an average kid, these scholarships meant he wasn't short on money. But he had grown up frugal and was used to saving, despite the suit's considerable cost. Knowing that Arthur, the chairman of Cloudia Corporation, was not short of funds, he didn't push back. "Arthur, thank you!" Taylor said sincerely.Mia and Sage were also good to him, but Arthur was the one he could truly bond with. Arthur taking the time to prepare clothes for him was beyond what Taylor had expected. "Ah, it's nothing. Don't mention it," Arthur said casually. Touched, Taylor didn't play coy and eagerly tried on the suit.
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