I arrived at Gem University far earlier than expected. The campus sprawled before me, pristine and intimidating, and I couldn’t help but wonder what my life here would truly be like. This wasn’t an ordinary school. Every student seemed to carry an air that drew attention effortlessly.

Popular students…

Daughters and sons of affluent families…

Talented prodigies…

And me? I was here only because someone had sponsored me. Compared to the rest, I was nothing.

I didn’t know what challenges awaited me, or how I would stand out in a place like this. But one thing I knew for certain—I had to work hard. I could not fail the man who gave me this chance. I didn’t even know why he had chosen me, why he had invested in my education at this extravagant school, but I had no choice but to accept it.

FLASHBACK

“Mommy? Where exactly are we going? I’m so excited to see the beautiful nature you said you’d surprise me with.”

“We’re almost there, baby. Just wait,” my mother replied softly, her voice tinged with exhaustion.

MATILDA’S POV

I hesitated, my heart torn. Should I let go of my child? The thought of leaving her filled me with unbearable pain. I didn’t want to leave her at the orphanage, yet I had no choice—I couldn’t feed her properly on my own. I needed to work hard for her, to provide her with a life I could barely imagine.

“Mommy, are you okay? You look so weak,” she whispered, her tiny hand brushing against my cheek, planting a gentle kiss.

My heart melted. That would be my last hug and kiss for my beloved daughter—for now. I knew that as time went on, our paths would diverge, and I could only hope she would grow up strong.

FAST FORWARD

“Mommy, what’s with this house? Why are there so many children here?”

Tears streamed down my face as I hugged my daughter tightly. I wanted to take her with me, but I couldn’t. My heart ached as I stared into her innocent eyes, unable to speak, unable to explain.

“Look how innocent you are, my child,” I whispered.

“Mommy, why are you crying?”

Before I could respond, two women approached, ready to take her away. I wiped my tears and stood, powerless. They held her arms firmly, and she reached out for me, her voice quivering:

“Mommy! Where are you going? Mommy, they’re holding me!”

I turned to her one last time and forced a bittersweet smile.

“I will be back soon, baby. Just wait for me, okay? Later we’ll go to that precious place you’ve been looking forward to.”

It was a lie. I knew she would believe it, at least for now. And with that lie, I left her behind.

END OF FLASHBACK

“Mommy… why did you leave me without a word?” I whispered to myself, the question lingering even now, years later.

“Oh! I almost forgot—my classroom is in 806. I need to hurry, or I’ll be late.”

I raced down the hallway, weaving through the crowd of students, until I finally reached my classroom.

“Ouch!”

I collided sharply with someone, instinctively touching my shoulder to ease the pain.

“Are you blind, woman?”

A shiver ran down my spine at that harsh tone.

CAMPUS HEAD, LI YIXING

"I'm tired. Don't bother me."

Hmph.

Maybe he'll just talk nonsense again. I can already sense it.

"We have a big problem that the principal is trying to solve. I don't even know what it is because he refuses to tell me about it."

When I heard what the Vice President said, I fell silent. My mind immediately began analyzing the situation.

Maybe it's just a small issue.

But I hope it's not something serious.

Gem University is not an ordinary school. This place is filled with influential students—children of powerful families, talented prodigies, and individuals who shine like gems. That's why this school must remain perfect.

I don't want any stain on the name of this campus. As the Campus Head of Gem University, it is my responsibility to protect it.

My name is Li Yixing.

I'm 20 years old.

Just a simple man—yet people say I have a charisma that makes others follow me.

Tsk.

Without wasting any more time, I walked toward the principal's office. I needed to hear the situation directly from the head of the campus.

"Hmph."

PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE

"I heard about the bad news recently," I said calmly while fixing my necktie.

"As long as you have me, it should be easy to solve."

The principal slowly shook his head.

"No. You can't simply solve this with your usual tricks, Mr. Ling Yi."

His words made me pause.

The way he spoke… it wasn't normal.

I studied his expression carefully.

The principal looked uneasy—something I had never seen before.

It felt like he was carrying a heavy burden.

"You know me, Mr. Cheng," I said with a faint smirk.

"I'm the worst person to provoke. Anyone who dares to push me too far will regret it."

The principal sighed deeply.

For the first time since I've known him, he looked truly worried.

This isn't good.

"Gem University…" he said slowly.

"...is starting to collapse."

My eyes widened.

Collapse?

Those words echoed inside my mind.

I couldn't immediately respond. My thoughts froze.

"What is Mr. Yin's reaction?" I finally asked, my voice slightly tense.

The principal leaned back in his chair. "The students in this university are valuable. They shine like precious gems. That's why this place was named Gem University."

His voice grew heavier.

"This school isn't just famous. It supports businesses, influences powerful families, and shapes future leaders."

He looked directly into my eyes. "If Gem University falls… many things will collapse with it."

I clenched my fists. This situation was far worse than I imagined.

"Someone powerful is working behind the scenes to destroy this school," the principal continued.

"We don't know who he is."

"But he is intelligent… careful… and extremely dangerous."

Even Mr. Yin couldn't identify the person responsible. That alone was terrifying. I slowly lowered my gaze, thinking deeply. Then I tightened my fists.

This will not happen.

Not while I'm here.

As the Head of Gem University…

and the right hand of the President of this campus... I will protect this school—no matter what it takes.

Hey everyone!

Before you start reading, I just want to say that English is not my first language, so please forgive any grammatical or typographical errors. If you notice any mistakes, feel free to correct me! I would really appreciate it.

Also… my nose is actually bleeding right now while writing this, huhu but don’t worry, I’m okay! As long as I can make everyone happy and entertained, I will continue doing my best <3

Now for the big question…

What will happen to Xiao Nian after she offended the owner of the school?

Will trouble start to follow her?

Or will Mr. Yin stare Xiao Nian to death with his cold gaze?

Let’s find out in the next chapter!