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.

from me. Not once had she asked for my help. She stood alone and

without any hesitation, but was cut off by Charlie who now started to

you defending her? Don't be naive! That woman loves nobody but herself! She knows what my money will bring her, and that's why she drew a clear line between you and her. Stop acting like

He clenched his teeth in restraint. There was no telling of what he could do if he was

heated, and it was sure to erupt once they reach the extremes. From there on, there would be no

her than what you think, and I'm 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 a moment before taking a step back. "I'm done here. It's your decision to make.

still

at the figure behind the glass window. Every step she took felt heavy as she thought of Rufus and how he was dealing with

her hand away once she had regained enough sense. "Father, I need to go back. He's hurt, and I have to stay

let her father drag her away from him. She

of him. I am a man too, and I know how

her. He clutched her hand more tightly, in case she ran to Rufus again. He did not let go of her even when they had reached the ground floor and he dragged her with him out of the Tang

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

wall with his fists, trying to relieve himself of the fury that was boiling inside him. The image of Cassandra came to his mind

you knew that I would not be able to take over the Tang group?' he asked silently in

wrong about you?' he thought to