The Professor Returns

The next morning, Lily Evans got up early, dressed, and finished her disguise. In moments, a handsome young gentleman, as refined as an orchid, had appeared!

Lola glanced around at Lily and said, "It's been ages since we've seen Professor Jade Evans. Now that I look at you, you feel much more familiar."

Lily twisted her waist from side to side and asked Lola, "Lola, do you think I've gained weight? After all, I had a baby—my waist looks a bit bigger, don't you think?"

Lola looked seriously and replied, "Nope! You look just as slender as before."

Lily made a sound of agreement and left with Lola. Together, they boarded the carriage and headed to the Royal Mathematics Institute.

As the carriage neared the Institute, Lily saw from a distance that the entrance was packed with people—all dressed in the Institute's uniform. They were all students.

"Look, Professor Jade Evans is here!" called out Martin Wu, who stood at the very front.

Martin Wu was dressed in scholarly robes and had grown taller—almost as tall as the other boys. He looked dashing and waved energetically at the carriage, "Professor Evans is back!"

The students saw Professor Jade Evans' carriage approaching, and excitement swept through the crowd. They ran up to form a welcoming path.

Lily looked at her enthusiastic students, and her eyes grew warm with emotion.