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.

smile spread across Rufus's lips when

that she would refuse his financial help, so he made

it is something that will help you. Open it,"

assured her gently.

a while, Cassandra took the

a few seconds, Cassandra's face lit

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

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

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

with Cassandra's reaction. Still, he did not let his emotions show on his

its prize pool is quite large. Winning would definitely give you a huge amount of money," he said.

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

is too sudden. I didn't prepare anything for it. I might be eliminated

she pressed the notice against her chest, worriedly.

be given on the spot and very few people can guess what it is as

he knew more about the competition than her.

prize money on the

than enough to pay

my father's company will be saved, '

is the best gift I've

said as she started

gold, but respect. Rufus didn't give her money, but what he gave her was something far more

protecting her pride and giving her space to work

the next two days. I have a business trip to New York so I will be going with you,"

ulterior motive was to meet the designer who claimed that his design was copied by Cassandra.

felt the sorrow in her heart disappear.

later, Cassandra arrived in New York

got off the plane, Cassandra hurried to the office of the organizing committee. She had

They are unique and innovative. We are looking forward to witnessing your

gave Cassandra an entry card with her

safe, or you will not be allowed to

card in her hand. 'I will do my best to win. I have to save father's company,"

her to a famous western restaurant. As soon

gently excused herself and went to a silent corner.

Can you give me some money?" the

paused. She didn't expect Cloris to ask her for money in