Liza offered a faint smile before her expression shifted to one of fragile grievance. Her fingers fidgeted nervously, and she looked so delicate it seemed a mere breeze could topple her over. “Grandma,” she said softly, her voice trembling, “since you put it that way, then it must be my fault. I shouldn’t have come at all. The security guards didn’t stop me—I was late. I’m sorry, everyone!” Grandma Sinclair’s stern demeanor softened slightly. “At least you’ve shown some sense! Shameless girl!” However, a low murmur of conversation arose among the students nearby, their glances occasionally darting toward Grandma Sinclair. “Did you hear that? She’s blaming Liza, but it’s clear the security guards stopped her. She wasn’t late on purpose,” one whispered. “Right! And what’s with Serena acting so pitiful? If Helen hadn’t spoken up, I would’ve completely misunderstood Liza!”Victoria, catching wind of the murmurs, quickly interjected to redirect the conversation. Forcing a smile, she said, “Liza, it’s good you’re here. Your father went through so much trouble to organize this banquet just for you. He even had your room tidied up to surprise you!” Serena chimed in hurriedly, her tone syrupy sweet. “Sister, I personally helped clean your room. I really hope you’ll like it!” Suppressing her irritation, Victoria feigned a kind expression. “Liza, even though I’m not your biological mother, I’ve always treated you as my own. It’s time you come back home. Your father and I have been so worried about you. Living with… those men isn’t suitable for the long term.” The mention of “men” immediately caught everyone’s attention. Students exchanged wide-eyed looks, straining to hear more. Living with men? And more than one? Victoria sighed, adopting a tone of concern. “I understand you’re close to President Albert, but there should always be boundaries between men and women. If word gets out, it won’t reflect well on you…”Mr. Sinclair nodded in agreement, adding gravely, “Your grandmother and I feel the same way. Liza, it’s time you moved back home and distanced yourself from those men. It’s for your own good.” The room fell into an uneasy silence. Everyone’s attention was now squarely on Liza, waiting to see how she would respond. Among the elite circles, many were aware of the scandal involving Fragrance Hotel, but the students of Li City University had no knowledge of it. To them, “President Albert” conjured up an image of a balding, greasy middle-aged man who might be bankrolling Liza. Breaking the silence, Grandma Sinclair’s sharp voice cut through the air like a blade, further wounding Liza’s reputation. “Liza! You may be shameless, but the Sinclair Family values our dignity!” Her pointed words cast Liza into an even deeper pit of humiliation. The students exchanged wide-eyed, incredulous glances before their gazes turned to disdain, their expressions clearly condemning Liza. However, Liza remained unfazed, sipping her tea leisurely before smiling serenely. “Alright, I’ll move back.” Mr. Sinclair’s stern expression softened with surprise. He hadn’t expected her to agree so easily. If Liza returned home and severed ties with Albert, then Albert would likely stop supporting her. This way, Serena could step in and charm Albert with her gentleness and understanding. Once Albert favored Serena, he wouldn’t trouble the Sinclair Family anymore. Feeling triumphant, Mr. Sinclair nodded approvingly. “Good. Since you’ve agreed, then don’t leave tonight.” Liza tilted her head thoughtfully. “The only thing is… I have trouble sleeping in a new bed. I think…” Her words trailed off, and her gaze shifted to Serena with a subtle smile. “I’d like to stay in my original room.”Serena’s face went pale, her body visibly trembling. Mr. Sinclair’s face darkened, his voice growing impatient. “Serena is staying in that room now. Don’t stir up trouble!” Victoria forced a smile, though it was clear she was uncomfortable. “Liza, Serena has been living there for quite some time now. She’s accustomed to it. Why not pick another room?” At this moment, Ava, who had always harbored resentment against Liza since quitting university, saw an opportunity to lash out. “Liza! You’re so shameless! It’s bad enough that you’ve been living with different men, but now the Sinclair Family is graciously letting you move back, and you still have the audacity to demand Serena’s room? Serena even cleaned a room especially for you! Why are you being so difficult? You’re really petty!” Another young man, clearly smitten with Serena, chimed in angrily. “Liza, you’re Serena’s elder sister. Shouldn’t you give in to her? How can you try to take her room?”Liza’s gaze lifted, her expression calm and indifferent. “I’m taking her room?” Her lips curled into a faint smile, and she let out a soft sigh, feigning helplessness. “But I truly want to sleep in my old bed. The basement is so cold and dark. Aunt Victoria said my younger sister is now staying in my room. If there are no other rooms in the Sinclair Family’s home, then I suppose I’ll have no choice but to sleep in the basement. But…” Her voice trembled ever so slightly. “I’m so scared!”