A Graduation Gift

As she entered Rufus's office with her completed design, Cassandra found him sitting on the sofa, swirling a glass of wine. He seemed lost in thought.

"Mr. Luo, this is my design of the nursing home. Please check it before I submit to our partner,"

she said as she put her work on Rufus's desk and waited for his reply.

Rufus took a sip of wine and closed his eyes, enjoying its flavor and sensation as he swallowed it down his throat.

"How is your father doing?"

asked Rufus instead of acknowledging Cassandra's request. One of his subordinates managed to locate the IP address of the poster. It was in New York. He already sent someone to look into it.

Cassandra's thoughts on the matter interested him.

"My father… He should be punished by what he has done, but I don't think his company should go bankrupt. I am determined to do my best to save it," she replied.

In reality, Cassandra had no idea how to help her father's company. Still, she was not about to show weakness in front of Rufus. She did not need anyone's sympathy, especially his.

Rufus stifled a sigh. He knew everything about Cassandra and her situation. The only way to save her father's company was by paying a fine. It would be impossible for her to come up with such a vast amount of money.

Rufus stood up and gave her an envelope.

"Open it," he said.

Cassandra hesitated. A part of her did not want to take it.

"What are you thinking about? Just take it,"

urged Rufus as he pushed the envelope closer to her.

"No, Mr. Luo, I can't accept your money!"

Cassandra stepped back stubbornly.

She knew that raising the money would be difficult, but she was determined to try.

She would not let the Qin Group go bankrupt. She would sell their villa and rent an apartment for her family if she had to.

Since the villa was bought many years ago, it had already increased in value. It would sell for a good price. Cassandra also had some friends back in Rome who were willing to lend her money. Another option was to apply for a loan.

The last thing she wanted to do was to borrow or accept money from the Tang family. This included Rufus. It would be a huge blow to her ego.

spread across Rufus's lips

that she would refuse his financial help, so he made sure that the envelope did not contain

down. It's not money, but it is

assured her

a while, Cassandra took the envelope

a few seconds, Cassandra's face

entry notice from the International Architectural Design Competition. Held every five years, it was

competition after she graduated, but she completely forgot about its occurrence this year due to the many things that happened recently. It was a pleasant surprise that Rufus had

your designs and hoped you can take part in the competition in the

he did not let his emotions show

quite large. Winning would definitely give you a huge amount of money," he

found that the competition was to open in five days. A part of her felt scared

too sudden. I didn't prepare anything for it. I might be eliminated at the very first round,"

she pressed the notice against her

Advance preparation will not work. The topic will be given on the spot and very few people can

It seemed that he knew more about the

prize money on the paper, Cassandra felt thrilled.

is more than enough to pay off the

competition, my father's company will be saved, '

the

said as she

respect. Rufus didn't give her money, but what he

space to work

to New York so

the designer who claimed that his design was copied by

and felt the sorrow

in New York with Rufus.

got off the plane, Cassandra hurried to the office of the organizing committee. She had impressed the judges with her

are unique and innovative. We are looking forward to witnessing

a full beard as he gave Cassandra an entry card with her name and

you will not be allowed to enter the competition site,"

will do my best to win. I have to save father's company," promised Cassandra

out. Rufus took her to a famous western restaurant. As soon

excused herself and went to a

to sign up. Can you give me some money?" the girl from the other end of the

to ask her for money in