Alpha Culinary Love

Chapter 46: How did it go with Delacroix

As I walked back to the dorm, I thought about how I would protect our love from this threat. Jiyeon was mine, and I would do everything in my power to keep her. This was just the beginning of the battle, and I was ready to face it head-on. I needed a plan, something that would put an end to Delacroix's interference once and for all.

Back in our room, I found Jiyeon already in bed, reading a book. She looked up and smiled as I entered, but the weariness in her eyes was unmistakable.

"Hey," she said softly. "How did it go with Delacroix?"

I forced a smile, trying to hide the turmoil inside me. "It was... enlightening. But don't worry about it. Let's just get some rest."

Jiyeon nodded, setting her book aside and snuggling into the blankets. As I lay down beside her, I couldn't help but think about the conversation with Delacroix. She had made her intentions clear, and I knew I had to act fast to protect Jiyeon.

The next morning, I woke up early, my mind already racing with ideas. Jiyeon was still asleep, her breathing slow and steady. I slipped out of bed quietly, not wanting to wake her. As I made my way to the kitchen to make some coffee, I mentally ran through my options. Delacroix was a problem, but she was also a professor at the academy—a position that came with a certain level of power and influence. I couldn't just confront her head-on without repercussions.

But I had resources of my own. My family was wealthy, and with that wealth came power. I had avoided using it in the past, preferring to handle things on my own. But this was different. Jiyeon was worth any sacrifice, and I wasn't going to let anyone come between us.

As I sipped my coffee, an idea began to form. It was risky, but it could work. I would need to gather some information first, though. Delacroix had to have some weaknesses, some vulnerabilities that I could exploit. Everyone did.

Later that day, while Jiyeon was in class, I decided to visit the administrative office. As an omega with influential connections, I knew how to get the information I needed. I approached the receptionist with a friendly smile.

"Good morning," I said. "I was wondering if I could speak with someone about Professor Delacroix's background. I'm considering writing an article about the faculty for the school newsletter."

The receptionist looked at me with mild suspicion but nodded. "I'll see if someone is available to help you. Please wait here."

A few minutes later, a woman who introduced herself as Ms. Park came to greet me. She led me to a small office and gestured for me to sit.

"So, you're interested in Professor Delacroix?" Ms. Park asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Yes," I replied, trying to sound casual. "She's such a prominent figure at the academy. I thought it would be interesting to learn more about her background."

Ms. Park nodded slowly. "Well, Professor Delacroix has been with us for several years now. She's very accomplished in her field. Is there anything specific you want to know?"

I leaned in slightly, feigning interest. "I was hoping to get some details about her career before she joined the academy. You know, to provide some context for the readers."

Ms. Park hesitated for a moment, then opened a file on her desk. "Delacroix came highly recommended from her previous positions. She has a strong academic record and extensive experience in culinary arts. Before joining us, she worked at several prestigious institutions."

As she spoke, I caught sight of a name on one of the documents in the file. It was an unfamiliar name, but something about it piqued my curiosity. "Do you mind if I take a look at that?" I asked, pointing to the document.

Delacroix leaned back in her chair, her eyes glittering with amusement. "Oh? And what about us?"

"I know about your past," I said, watching her expression closely. "The incident in France."

Her smirk faltered for a moment, then she regained her composure. "I see you've been doing some digging. And what do you plan to do with this information?"

"I plan to make sure you leave Jiyeon alone," I said, stepping closer. "You see, I have the power to make your life very difficult. Or I can make it very easy, if you agree to my terms."

Delacroix's eyes narrowed. "And what are these terms?"

"You will stop pursuing Jiyeon," I said firmly. "You will resign from the academy and leave town. If you do that, I won't reveal what I know. If you refuse, I'll make sure everyone knows about your past."

For a moment, Delacroix seemed to consider her options. Then she smiled, a cold, calculating smile. "You drive a hard bargain, Yura. But I'm not one to back down easily."

"Think about it," I said, meeting her gaze. "Is Jiyeon really worth ruining your career over?"

Delacroix's smile faded, replaced by a look of frustration. "Fine. I'll leave her alone. But don't think this is over."

"Oh, it is," I said, turning to leave. "Believe me, it is."

As I walked out of her office, I felt a sense of relief. It wasn't a perfect solution, but it was a start. Delacroix was still a threat, but I had bought us some time.

Over the next few days, Delacroix's demeanor towards Jiyeon changed. She was still polite and professional, but the personal interest had faded. Jiyeon noticed the change too and seemed relieved.

One evening, as we were having dinner, Jiyeon looked at me thoughtfully. "You know, Delacroix has been acting differently lately. Did something happen?"

I smiled, reaching across the table to take her hand. "Let's just say I had a little talk with her. She won't be bothering us anymore."

Jiyeon squeezed my hand, her eyes filled with gratitude. "Thank you, Yura. I don't know what I would do without you."

"You don't have to worry about that," I said softly. "I'll always be here for you."

But I knew the battle wasn't over yet. Delacroix might have agreed to back off, but I couldn't trust her completely. I decided to keep a close watch on her, just in case.

A week later, the academy announced that Delacroix had resigned and would be leaving immediately. A new professor, a beta named Ms. Kim, was introduced as her replacement.