“If this is true, Ava, this is a federal offense,” Dean Vance said, looking up.

“It is true,” I said, my voice trembling but clear.

“My father is trying to protect Brandon at my expense.”

“They are going to let me get expelled to keep Brandon out of jail.”

“My grandmother wanted me to have this education.”

“She would not want her money used to cover up a fraud.”

Dean Vance leaned back in her chair, her gaze fixed on me.

She stared at the documents for a long time, processing the sheer scale of the deception.

“Your grandmother was a proud woman,” Dean Vance said softly.

“She spoke of your dedication often.”

“She believed you were the only one in your family with real integrity.”

“I want to believe you, Ava.”

“But the university cannot ignore a lack of funding.”

“We have strict policies regarding tuition deadlines.”

I felt a cold dread sink deep into my stomach.

“Please,” I said. “I just need time.”

“If I am expelled today, my father wins.”

“He will take everything my grandmother left me.”