Passing on the Academy
Principal Gregory Gu spoke, letting out a sigh, keeping his deepest regret to himself.
He had always hoped that Lily Evans would become his granddaughter-in-law. But alas, Lily was already married to Alexander Hayes and now expecting a child. That wish could never be fulfilled.
Since it was impossible, Principal Gu accepted it with clarity and did not force the matter. He chose not to mention it, sparing everyone unnecessary trouble.
"Lily, there’s one thing I can’t let go of even after I’m gone, and I’d like to entrust it to you." Principal Gu looked at Lily Evans, his expression solemn, as if giving his final instructions.
"Principal Gu..." Lily’s voice trembled as she looked at him.
Principal Gu waved his hand and smiled, "Lily, just hear me out. After I’m gone, what I worry about most is the Phoenix Academy I founded with my own hands. Even if I pass away, the academy will live on and carry forward my wishes, giving local children the chance at education and a bright future. My greatest fear is that Phoenix Academy falls into the hands of mediocrity and all my hard work is ruined. So, Lily, I want to entrust Phoenix Academy to you. When I’m gone, I’d like you to become the Principal of Phoenix Academy. Will you accept?"
"You want me to be Principal of Phoenix Academy!?" Lily looked at Principal Gu in shock. Phoenix Academy’s reputation far surpassed that of her Mathematics Institute, and Lily had always thought Principal Gu would leave it to his own family to manage, never expecting he’d choose her!
"Lily, you were personally chosen by me as a senior manager at the academy, and now you’re the Principal of the Mathematics Institute, proving my judgment was right." Principal Gu sighed. "Gregory, though he holds a high position, is fully absorbed in his official duties. If the academy were left to him, he wouldn’t run it with heart, and in time, all my efforts would be wasted. But you’re different. You run your institute with pure intentions and great vision. I believe Phoenix Academy will flourish under your leadership."
Lily pressed her lips together and asked, "Principal Gu, does the Imperial Grand Tutor know about your decision?"
Principal Gu sighed, "Gregory doesn’t know yet. He’s set on taking over the academy so that all the students become his protégés, which would help his career in the officialdom. But I think his mindset is too utilitarian, and he’s not suited to lead the academy. I’ll find the right time to explain things to Gregory. Lily, don’t worry."
Lily recalled how, back then, Gregory Gu Jr. had nearly ruined the reputation of Phoenix Academy by colluding with the Kingdom of Chu for his own gain.
Clearly, Principal Gu’s judgment was sharp—Gregory Gu Jr. was never fit to take over the academy. Lily herself would never want the children of Phoenix Academy to become pawns in Gregory’s political games.
Privately, Lily was even more determined not to let Gregory’s power grow unchecked—if it did, Alexander Hayes, his rival, would only face harsher suppression.
After a brief moment of contemplation, Lily made up her mind. For Alexander’s sake—and for the future of their child—she couldn’t allow Gregory Gu Jr. to control Phoenix Academy.
Lily made her decision without hesitation. "Since you trust me, Principal Gu, I’ll accept and take charge of the academy. I’m already one of Phoenix Academy’s seven senior managers, and both Phoenix and the Mathematics Institute are like my own children. I promise to care for them wholeheartedly and live up to your expectations."
Seeing Lily agree, Principal Gu finally relaxed. His voice lightened with relief as he smiled and said, "Good, good." He then took out a small brocade pouch and placed it before Lily. "Lily, this contains the official seal and token of the Principal, as well as your appointment letter written in my own hand. I’ve also left personal letters for each of the other six senior managers, to be delivered after my passing. With your reputation and credentials, no one will object to you becoming Principal of Phoenix Academy."