The director interjected, “Is that true?"

No one believed Maria.

Maria didn't understand. She had said it in all seriousness. She had also been detailed and professional in her comments.

She seemed certain about the differences between the top two domestic universities.

It was... surprising to say the least!

Before Maria had time to address the director's doubts, the director continued, "Actually, how about Darren answers this question? He can also introduce the different schools of the north campus where he studies."

Darren was quick to answer, "But I am not clear on all the things that Maria said..."

Everyone turned to look at Maria again. They all thought she was just boasting.

Darren attempted to continue, "I go to the School of Mathematics and Science of Sheffield University. My courses specializes in the study of the basic theory of mathematics. The skeptical study on the basic theory of mathematics we have here is at least five years ahead of the course offered at Broome University. That I can say for sure."

Hearing this, there was dead silence inside the bus.

093:

Except for Maria and Darren, everyone in the bus was harboring doubts about Maria's words.

It didn't matter whether the thing about the Sheffield and Broome Universities was true or not. The question was, how could an outsider know so much about the inner workings of both institutions?

Especially Maria, who had never attended college, and therefore had no access to such knowledge.

“Huh! I didn't expect you and Darren to be this close, Maria. To think that he has told you so much about the Sheffield University.”

It was Vivian who broke the tense silence.

“Of course, that should explain it!" Lyman chimed in with a smirk. "I have to admit, I was a bit surprised at first. I was just thinking what a pity it was that Maria didn't attend college, even though she seems to know a lot. If she did, she might have gotten into a famous university."

“The Science School of these two universities pride themselves for the most advanced research endeavors in the country," Beuford added with a wry smile. "They dabble in subjects that are far too complicated for us common folk to understand. I bet Maria must have a hard time just memorizing the terminologies she just said."

“I know, right?" Shera said.

“I'm already having trouble pronouncing those long scientific names. There's no way I would be able to remember an entire textbook of those things!"

In the blink of an eye, they had unanimously arrived at the conclusion that Maria was only good at parroting another person's words, but her head was actually quite empty.

Darren's scowl deepened as he Listened to their comments.

He opened his mouth and was about to speak up for Maria, but before he could utter a word, he felt her tug at his sleeve.

Maria shook her head, silently telling him not to say anything.