A Graduation Gift

Rufus's thoughts had wandered off to Cassandra. What would her reaction be when she learned of how he became the man that he was now?

Would she blame him and get angry with him for not telling her the truth? Or would she forgive him and accept him and his past?

But he had never expected such a result and would never believe it.

He shook his head at his own thoughts. 'No, impossible. She will never do that. I know her. She won't be blinded by money.'

Shivers racked his frame at the thought that he could be wrong. It was a terrifying notion, and he refused to believe it.

Charlie watched him coldly as he answered. He looked at Rufus in disbelief, as if he was telling the biggest joke he had ever heard.

"You can believe what you want. I told her myself, and I saw how she turned pale when she heard that you might not be able to inherit the Tang Group." Rufus gave no reply and Charlie scoffed, "You think I'm lying? Listen to reason, Rufus. You are letting your emotions get the better of you. Whatever feelings you have for her right now are turning you into a blind man. You're the smartest student I've ever had, and it is ridiculous of you to believe in such a woman!"

Charlie's gaze was burning as he spoke. He shook his head repeatedly as he continued.

"I knew right from the start that she was no simple woman. She chose to marry Lionel for Tang Group's power. Then she left him just as he was losing his father's favor. It was clever of her to turn her attention to you, the next possible successor."

Charlie did not mince his words about Cassandra. He spoke without holding anything back, regardless of whether it would hurt Rufus or not. At the same time, Rufus clenched his fists tightly, his knuckles turning white from the force of his grip.

he said back sharply. "She had never wanted anything from me. Not once had she asked for my help. She stood alone and did everything herself. Whatever she has right now, she worked harder than anybody to get. You have no idea what she

any hesitation, but was cut off by Charlie who now

but herself! She knows what my money will bring her, and that's why she drew a clear line between you

Charlie's voice as he spat out the words stung Rufus. He clenched his teeth in restraint. There was no telling of what he could do if he was not able to hold his temper.

heated, and it was sure to erupt once they reach the extremes. From there on, there

sure your eyes will open once you see it for yourself. Remember what I've taught you, Rufus, and for God's sake, use your head!" He huffed for

daughter's hand as she was still sobbing and headed quickly

the elevator as she looked back at the figure behind the glass window. Every step she took felt heavy as she thought

sense. "Father, I need to go back. He's hurt, and I have to stay with him!"

did not want to let her father drag her away from him. She wanted nothing more than to stay by Rufus's side.

listen to me. He would only grow more tired of you if you keep showing up in front of him. I am a man too, and I know how my kind thinks far better than you. Keeping your distance is much better than being a desperate woman

he lectured her. He clutched her hand more tightly, in case she ran to Rufus again. He did not let go of her

left to himself when Amanda and Charlie left. Alone, he finally let out all the emotions he had to suppress. The anguish and resentment were killing

swift motion, he struck the wall with his fists, trying to relieve himself of the fury that was boiling inside him. The image of Cassandra came to his mind and he shook at

take over the Tang

to