A Debt of Gratitude

The Gu Family servant was so intimidated by Lily Evans's commanding gaze that he shivered, hurriedly nodded and bowed, then turned to report to Gregory Gu Jr.

Lily Evans asked the other members of the Gu Family to lead her toward Grand Chancellor Gregory Gu's residence.

Gregory Gu, Grand Secretary, was in poor health, bedridden for a long time, and generally did not receive outside visitors.

But today’s visitor was Princess Lily Hayes, whose status was extremely distinguished. Not only was she Prince Alexander Hayes’s wife, she was also the stepdaughter of Dr. Rowan Lin, the legendary healer. Though she didn’t bear the Lin surname, she was still the legitimate young lady of the Lin Family.

Given Gregory Gu’s illness, the family might eventually have to seek help from Dr. Rowan Lin. So the Gu Family didn’t dare offend Princess Lily Hayes; instead, they treated her with utmost respect, lest they need the Lin Family’s help and get blocked, which could be fatal.

"Grand Chancellor, Princess Lily Hayes requests an audience. She says she’s here to visit you and check on your health," an old steward announced as he entered.

"Princess Lily Hayes?" Gregory Gu, Grand Secretary, was stunned for a moment, then quickly remembered who she was.

He hadn’t seen Lily Evans in a long time, but he had always admired her intelligence. Although she hadn’t become his granddaughter-in-law, the two were still close friends despite the age gap. Today, with Lily coming to visit, Gregory Gu was genuinely delighted.

"Quick, invite Princess Lily Hayes in! Brew some of the Pre-rain Dragon Well tea (Longjing) the Emperor just rewarded us with—let her have a taste!" Grand Chancellor Gregory Gu beamed with joy, his face full of energy.

"Yes, Grand Chancellor."

Lily Evans was ushered into the room.

Gregory Gu, Grand Secretary, reclined against a large pillow, dressed in his everyday clothes, his face looking sickly and pale.

"Grand Chancellor." Lily Evans gazed at Gregory Gu, memories flooding back—his appreciation and care for her in Greenfield City, at Phoenix Academy, all vivid before her eyes. Looking at this ailing elder who had once recognized her talents, Lily's gaze softened with gratitude.

Gregory Gu greeted Lily warmly, inviting her to sit. He smiled, "Ah, it's a pity Gregory Gu Jr. was sent by the Emperor on official business outside the city. Otherwise, the three of us could gather just like we did at Phoenix Academy."

Lily Evans was momentarily surprised to hear that Gregory Gu Jr. had gone out, but quickly caught on.

Gregory Gu Jr. didn’t want his grandfather to worry about him being punished by Alexander Hayes or Dr. Rowan Lin, so he deliberately claimed he was traveling elsewhere.

Lily Evans understood and didn’t expose the truth. She simply chatted and reminisced with Gregory Gu, Grand Secretary.

The two sipped tea and caught up. Grand Chancellor Gregory Gu asked about Lily's life in the Capital, showing concern as if she were his own granddaughter. Learning of her happiness, he sighed and smiled: "Lily, to be honest, I once hoped you and Gregory Gu Jr. would marry. But now that you’ve wed Alexander Hayes and he treats you well, I’m relieved. You have a good home, and that’s what matters. Now you’re teaching at the Royal Academy of Mathematics, spreading the art of mathematics and doing what you love. I’m truly happy for you."

Lily Evans felt a warm glow inside. Their conversation was lively and heartwarming.

While Lily Evans was thoroughly enjoying herself, Gregory Gu Jr. felt like he was sitting on pins and needles.