Chapter 9

Allison could no longer stir up trouble.

The school withdrew the decision for probation and directly expelled her.

Of course, this could also be said to be Ethan’s final decision.

But that was no longer important.

Ethan Sterling’s public declaration of pursuing me became the new headline on campus.

On graduation day, classmates gathered around.

“Avy, don’t forget us when you’re rich and famous!”

“I heard you can choose any position in all the affiliated companies under Sterling Group? So envious!”

“Are you still planning to work? Why not just become Mrs. Sterling?”

“Who would have thought, Mr. Sterling came to support his little niece, and ended up falling for you at first sight.”

I didn’t want to listen to any of the chatter.

The diploma in my hand felt like a receipt for my years of hard work.

My family was poor.

I had put in unimaginable effort to get to where I am today.

I couldn’t stop here, nor could I be content with being someone’s appendage.

Now, I must personally settle something.

After the graduation ceremony, everyone went their separate ways.

I didn’t rush to leave; instead, I went to find Ethan first.

He had prepared a graduation gift for me-a diamond necklace of considerable value.

I looked at it and gently placed it back into the velvet box.

“Don’t like it?” Ethan asked, “If you don’t like it, I’ll get you something else. Surely, I’ll find something you like.”

I didn’t answer but silently unbuttoned the first button of my shirt.

Then, looking directly into his eyes, I said:

“Ethan Sterling, do you want to complete in reality what we didn’t finish in the dream?”