Serena was actually going to Longwan Residential, and Gavin himself had invited her. The thought sent a chill down Liza's spine. Her mind replayed Gavin’s earlier message, where he mentioned a surprise. Was Serena the so-called surprise he had in store? If that were true, Liza swore she would personally make him regret it—starting with twisting his head off. The group of onlookers had finally recovered from their shock, and the murmurs began to spread. “Serena is so lucky to be invited to Longwan Residential! That’s not a place just anyone can visit.” “Well, it makes sense. She’s Brandon’s fiancée, after all. They’re both part of the Stone Family, so it’s natural for them to meet someone as important as Gavin. Still, I’m so envious!” “They’re such a perfect couple! Even someone like Gavin must think so. What an ideal match made in heaven!” “Look at Liza’s stunned expression. She’s probably jealous again. But what’s the point? Everyone’s fate is different. No amount of jealousy will change hers.” Ava, who had been silent earlier, tugged at Serena’s arm and spoke up, her tone filled with disdain. “Serena, why are you even considering bringing her along? Knowing her personality, she’s bound to offend someone important. Won’t she just end up causing you trouble?” Serena shook her head gently, feigning an understanding expression. “No, Ava. My sister might have a fiery temper and a competitive streak, but deep down, she’s sensible. I think she’s just lost her way recently—probably because Dad cut off her credit cards. That must be why she’s been acting so recklessly. I just want to show her what real high society looks like. Once she sees that, she’ll understand how misguided her choices have been.” Her words implied something deeper: Liza was only associating with older men for financial gain.Ava quickly caught on to the insinuation and let out a derisive laugh. “Oh, so that’s what this is about! But honestly, Serena, I doubt your plan will work. A man of real status and capability would never fall for someone like Liza. She’s just a desperate woman who clings to those flashy nouveau riches.” “I can already imagine what will happen if she shows up at Longwan Residential. The people there will probably have her kicked out the moment they lay eyes on her. Serena, don’t bring her. Letting someone like her set foot in Longwan Residential is an insult to the place!” Serena put on a show of mild reproach, lightly pushing Ava’s arm and speaking as though she were scolding her. “Don’t say that about my sister! Even if some of it might be true, she’s still my family. I want to try to help her. You know how much my sister admires the Stone Family… She used to treat Brandon…” At that moment, Serena stopped herself abruptly, covering her mouth with an expression of feigned regret. Her almond-shaped eyes were filled with a calculated mix of hesitation and conflict, as though she had just accidentally revealed a secret she was desperate to keep hidden. Ava quickly caught on and sneered. “Of course, she loves the Stone Family. She even had the nerve to try and steal her younger sister’s fiancé and marry him instead! Not only that, but she even resorted to physical violence against you. If you weren’t so kindhearted and chose to forgive her, she’d be sitting in a jail cell for her actions.” Serena bit her lip and lowered her head, her silence making her seem even more pitiable. The students around them, many of whom had never heard this story before, were visibly shocked. “What? Liza tried to take Serena’s fiancé? And she hit Serena too? How can someone be so despicable?” Ava crossed her arms, her tone dripping with disdain. “Exactly. She failed to seduce Young Master Gu, angered the Sinclair family, and got her credit cards cut off by her own father. And do you know what she did after that?” Ava paused dramatically, ensuring everyone’s attention was fixed on her before delivering the final blow. “She became some old man’s mistress to make ends meet.” As Ava’s words settled over the group, a quiet tension filled the air. Without a word, Liza stepped forward, her expression unreadable, until she was right in front of Ava. Smack! The crisp sound of the slap echoed, and Ava’s head snapped to the side. Red marks bloomed on her pale cheek, evidence of Liza’s strength and precision. Liza’s voice was calm but cold as she leaned in slightly. “What else does that mouth of yours know besides spouting nonsense? If you don’t know how to speak, then stay silent. And if you can’t shut your mouth…” She paused, pinching Ava’s chin with enough pressure to make her wince. “Then let me teach you how. Understood?” Ava’s eyes widened in disbelief. She had never expected Liza to strike her, let alone in front of so many witnesses. Serena, stunned by the sudden turn of events, quickly stepped between them, forcing the two apart. “Sister, calm down!” she said, her tone full of concern. “I know you have a fiery temper, but you can’t just go around hitting people. Ava won’t make a big deal out of it this time, right?” Her tearful gaze shifted to Ava, who was still clutching her stinging cheek. Ava’s face turned a mixture of red and white as she struggled to control her emotions. After a tense pause, she finally turned her head away with a huff. “Fine. I’ll be the bigger person and let it go this time. But next time, don’t expect me to be so forgiving.” Serena’s expression softened with gratitude. She gently took Ava’s hand, her voice full of warmth. “Thank you, Ava. You’re truly the best friend anyone could ask for.”