Beneath the Billionaire's Glamour

Chapter 3

Mia remained unfazed by Zara's bullying, focusing on the upcoming international exam, which offered a coveted scholarship and an internship at Johnson Group headquarters, allowing her to skip the second half of her four-year program.

The scholarship, launched by Benson Johnson, the 21-year-old president of Johnson Group, aimed to attract skilled talent. Benson, handsome and aloof, took the reins at 20 after graduating as the sole heir, shouldering the family legacy.

The Johnson family historically had only one male child per generation. However, Benson's twin, Bensiola, broke this pattern. She was a free-spirited and talented design student, excelling in her studies. Unlike Benson, Bensiola had no interest in business matters, preferring to explore her creative passion.

Bensiola's love for solo travel and adventure took her to exotic destinations, where she'd immerse herself in diverse cultures. Her family, though initially concerned, now supported her independence.

Benson's father, Sebastian, prioritized retirement to spend time with his wife, Ceralio. Similarly, his grandparents pampered female family members, encouraging Bensiola's artistic pursuits.

Thus the company was given to Benson.

Benson expanded Johnson Group, upholding the family's entrepreneurial legacy. He launched this scholarship program, which included:

- Combined 1st and 2nd semesters with an internship in the 2nd semester.

- Combined 3rd and 4th semesters with an internship in the 4th semester.

- Combined 5th and 6th semesters with an internship in the 6th semester.

- A final semester (8th) dedicated to work and a final year thesis.

Recipients must work for Johnson Group for five years post-graduation. The scholarship has high demand, driving students to excel.

Mia was in intense study mode, preparing for the prestigious scholarship exam, scheduled to take place in one and a half months. Meanwhile, Jake and Max were in rigorous practice mode, gearing up for the upcoming school sports meet, just a week away.

Unlike Mia, Jake and Max weren't interested in the scholarship. They had entrepreneurial aspirations, planning to launch their own company. However, Mia insisted on gaining more experience before taking the leap, making the scholarship her top priority.

Selin, on the other hand, was carefree, showing no interest in either the scholarship or the sports meet. Her reason? She wanted to avoid tanning her skin. Mia, Jake, and Max weren't surprised, accustomed to Selin's laid-back nature. They respected her choices, happy to let her do what made her happy

Zara's temporary reprieve from bullying had lulled Mia into a sense of security. With everyone focused on studies, Mia relaxed, unaware of the impending storm.

The sports meet day arrived, and the morning routine remained unchanged. Max and Jake bid Mia farewell, reminding her of their afternoon soccer match.

"Hey, don't forget to catch our game!" Max said with a grin. "Selin will meet you at the field entrance. Take a cab, don't bother walking to save money," Jake added with a chuckle.

Mia smiled, feeling carefree for the first time in weeks. She planned to spend the morning reviewing her notes, confident that the day would pass without incident.