As Liza mulled over her thoughts, Gavin suddenly cleared his throat, pulling her out of her reverie. Teacher Ewan noticed the slight shift in Gavin’s demeanor. It was clear to him that Gavin had picked up on something. Liza, however, remained blissfully unaware of the hidden connection. Teacher Ewan exchanged a brief look with Gavin. There was an unspoken understanding between them before they both looked away. Liza, oblivious to the tension in the room, asked curiously, “Teacher, you seemed like you wanted to say something earlier. What is it that I don’t know?” Teacher Ewan hesitated, torn about revealing the truth. He wanted to tell her about the consequences of using her blood to save Gavin—the unintended ability for the other person to hear her thoughts. Yet, he knew this knowledge could disrupt the delicate dynamics between the couple.After a moment’s pause, he decided to keep it to himself, clearing his throat as he replied, “I can’t seem to remember now.” Liza sighed dramatically. “Ah, Teacher, you’re getting old. Your memory isn’t as sharp as it used to be.” Teacher Ewan: “...” This little brat! When it was time for Teacher Ewan to leave, he turned to Liza, his tone serious. “Liza, we’re not on the mountain anymore. You need to restrain yourself while you’re out in the world. Don’t—” Before he could finish his warning, which was meant to remind her to stop pretending to be meek and innocent, Liza interrupted with a confused expression. “Restrain myself? Gavin is so good to me! Why would I need to?” Teacher Ewan was left speechless. She really doesn’t understand me! He shot a pointed look at Gavin, intending to say more, but his eyes caught sight of something that made him freeze. Around Liza’s neck hung a simple jade token. His body stiffened in shock. “President Gavin,” he said slowly, his voice trembling slightly. “You gave this to her?” Gavin remained calm, his tone steady. “It was just a small gift.” Liza nodded, entirely unbothered. “Yes, Teacher. Why do you seem so surprised? It’s just a jade token.” To her, the token seemed unremarkable compared to the extravagant gifts Gavin had given her in the past. She had noticed its hollow center, designed to discreetly hold a few silver needles that could serve as concealed weapons if needed. Teacher Ewan’s mind raced. This wasn’t just a jade token—it was the Husband’s Decree of the Stone family! He struggled to process what he was seeing. The Husband’s Decree was a symbol of immense power within the Stone Family. For generations, it had been entrusted only to the mistress of the household. Possessing it granted the holder command over the family’s assets and influence, symbolizing ownership of half the Stone Family’s wealth. The Husband’s Decree had been thought lost for over a century, leading many to believe it had been abolished altogether. Yet here it was, hanging casually around Liza’s neck. Teacher Ewan’s hands trembled as he pieced it together. Gavin hadn’t just gifted Liza a token—he had bestowed upon her a symbol of unparalleled trust and authority. And the most startling realization of all? Liza had no idea. Teacher Ewan stared at Gavin in disbelief before speaking hesitantly. “President Gavin, I don’t think this is appropriate.” He couldn’t help but feel uneasy. The Husband’s Decree, now in Liza’s possession, was an incredibly powerful symbol. If it were to fall into the wrong hands or become public knowledge, it would undoubtedly draw dangerous attention to her. However, Gavin’s response was calm and unwavering. “There’s nothing inappropriate about it,” he replied in an even tone.Teacher Ewan opened his mouth to argue, but Gavin’s next words silenced him. “I gave it to her because I trust her completely. If anyone dares to challenge her, I’ll be there to protect her. No harm will come to her while I’m around.” The conviction in his voice left little room for doubt. Gavin genuinely believed that Liza was the most deserving person to hold the Husband’s Decree. Teacher Ewan took a deep breath, processing the weight of Gavin’s statement. He waved for Liza to give them a moment of privacy and lowered his voice. “President Gavin, you should know that Liza is a free spirit. She grew up on the mountain and has always hated feeling constrained. Even with the Husband’s Decree and the bond created by the blood treatment, you won’t be able to control her.” Gavin’s expression didn’t falter. He met Teacher Ewan’s gaze with understanding. “I have no intention of controlling her, Mr. Ewan. She’s her own person, and I respect that. I gave her the Husband’s Decree because I believe she’s the one who deserves it. As for her safety, I can ensure she’ll be protected, no matter what. As for the blood treatment…” Teacher Ewan initially thought Gavin would promise to handle the situation carefully so as not to harm Liza in the future. However, Gavin’s response caught him off guard. His tone grew more serious as he declared, “I’ll never ask for her blood again. Nor will I ever let her be harmed to save me.” Teacher Ewan was momentarily stunned. Gavin continued, his voice carrying a weight of regret. “The last time it happened, I was unconscious due to the poison, and she stepped in to save me. But I won’t let it happen again. If the poison in my body can’t be resolved, I’ll find another way. I won’t risk her health or safety for my sake.” The sincerity in Gavin’s words left Teacher Ewan at a loss for words. It was evident that Gavin genuinely cared about Liza and was willing to prioritize her well-being above all else. After a long silence, Teacher Ewan sighed deeply. “Very well. Take Liza home, then.”A faint smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he added, “She’s chosen a good man. You’ve known each other for a decade now, and I can see that you’re responsible and courageous. You’ll protect her, won’t you?” Gavin’s firm nod was all the assurance Teacher Ewan needed.