The Bond Between Teacher and Student

The next day, after finishing her class, Lily Evans returned to the lounge for some tea and rest. She noticed a shadow lurking suspiciously at the doorway.

Lily Evans recognized the outline and couldn't help but smile, coughing twice and calling out, "Who's outside the door?"

Outside the door, Leonard Yuan's timid voice sounded. He poked his head in, his gaze towards Professor Lily Evans full of admiration, shining just like a fan looking at their idol.

"Oh, Leonard Yuan, what brings you here? Come in and speak," Lily Evans said with a gentle smile.

Leonard Yuan's face flushed with excitement. "Professor Evans, you—you remember my name?" he stammered.

Lily Evans looked at her student's innocent and adorable expression and couldn't help but smile. "Of course I remember. You were my student at Wutong Academy—hardworking, diligent, and bright. You were always among the top of your class. I approved your admission to the Academy myself this time."

Hearing Professor Evans remember so much about him, Leonard Yuan's face turned even redder with joy. He stammered, "Professor Evans, my whole family moved to the capital. My parents and I would like to invite you to dinner to thank you for all your care. Would you honor us...?"

Leonard Yuan spoke nervously, afraid that Professor Evans might refuse.

Lily Evans already knew about this from her fourth uncle, so she cheerfully agreed, "Of course! You were my student at Wutong Academy, and now you're my student here. You're my first true disciple. Since fate brought us together, why not share a meal?"

Hearing Professor Evans agree so readily and without any airs, Leonard Yuan was both honored and excited, so nervous he could barely speak. He stammered out the arrangements: the meal would be at noon on the Academy holiday, at the capital's finest restaurant, Eight Treasures Bistro.

After making plans with Professor Evans, Leonard Yuan skipped home in delight, eager to share the good news with his parents.

Yuan Jie, of course, had already guessed that Professor Evans would accept, but he still put on a show of surprise.

Mrs. Chen had long harbored suspicions, but seeing Leonard so happy, she simply smiled and nodded, approving of his choice.

After a full day of classes, Su Li looked around at the Academy's classroom. Though there were still only a few students, everything was running smoothly, which made her feel deeply relieved.

At the same time, she felt a vague sense of unease. The whole process of recruiting and starting classes had gone almost too smoothly, leaving Su Li with an odd feeling.

Thinking it over carefully, Su Li finally realized it was because Gregory Gu Jr., Imperial Grand Tutor, hadn't used his position to create obstacles for her academy.

But then, she remembered that Gregory Gu Jr. had been severely dealt with by Alexander Hayes and Dr. Rowan Lin last time. He'd need two or three months in bed to recover, so he probably didn't have the energy to cause trouble. Only then did Su Li feel at ease.

Soon enough, the Academy's holiday arrived. Disguised as Professor Su, Su Li headed to Eight Treasures Bistro as promised.

As soon as she entered, she saw Bella Bell, dressed smartly and looking radiant, come out to greet her with a beaming smile. "Professor Su, your grand arrival truly brings honor to our Eight Treasures Bistro! Please, follow me—your private room is ready."

With that, Bella Bell led the way, just half a step ahead, making a show of guiding her.

Su Li followed behind Bella Bell, pretending it was her first visit to Eight Treasures Bistro. She whispered to Bella Bell, "Leonard Yuan still doesn't know my real identity."

"He knows now," Bella Bell replied softly, then raised her voice: "Professor Su, the private room upstairs is ready. Please come in."

Su Li smiled and nodded, following Bella Bell up to the private room, feeling both anticipation and a touch of nervousness.