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.

Rufus's lips when Cassandra refused him.

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

is something

assured her gently.

for a while, Cassandra took

face

Held every five years, it was a stage

completely forgot about its occurrence this year due to the many things that happened recently. It was a pleasant surprise that Rufus had already

the judging panel, including your previous works. They liked your designs and hoped you

Still, he did not let

prize pool is quite large.

the competition was to open in five days. A part of her felt scared that it was too late to prepare.

anything for it.

she pressed the notice

improvised competition. Advance preparation will not work. The topic will be given on the spot and very few people can guess what it is

he knew more about the

on the paper, Cassandra felt thrilled.

more than enough to pay

win this competition, my father's company will

you, Mr. Luo. This is the best gift I've

said as she started to blush.

not silver or gold, but respect. Rufus didn't give her money, but what he gave her

to help her while protecting her pride and giving her space to work on

a business trip to New York so I will

designer who claimed that his design was

and felt the sorrow in her heart

Cassandra arrived in New York with

the office of the organizing committee. She had impressed the judges with her previous

and innovative. We are looking forward to witnessing your talents in

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

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

card in her hand. 'I will do

Rufus took her to a famous western restaurant. As soon as they sat down, Cassandra received a phone call

excused herself and went to a silent corner.

and I want to sign up. Can you give me

her for money in such an explicit