Liza followed Mason to the school board’s office, her expression calm and composed. Mason placed a freshly poured cup of tea in front of her. “Sister Liza, why didn’t you tell me you were coming? I could’ve met you at the university gate.” “There’s no need. It’s not my first time here,” she replied, taking a small sip of tea as he settled into his usual chatter. “You’re participating in the competition as Ruby co this time. Are you planning to reveal your true identity? If Master knew about this, he’d be thrilled,” Mason said with a grin. Both Liza and Mason shared the same mentor, though their paths to apprenticeship were vastly different. Mason had secured his position thanks to his father’s connections, while Liza’s extraordinary talent had made their master personally pursue her for over a year before she finally agreed. Despite being her senior in title, Mason had always treated Liza like an elder sister. Her skills and accomplishments far outshone his own. However, Liza preferred to keep a low profile, working under the pseudonym “Ruby co” and rarely appearing in public. Their master often lamented how his most gifted disciple stubbornly refused to showcase her brilliance. At the mention of their master, a rare warmth flickered in Liza’s usually indifferent eyes. “How is Master?” “He’s doing well,” Mason replied, pulling up a chair to sit beside her. “By the way, Sister Liza, have you decided on your collaboration partner for this quarter? Any preferences?” Liza glanced at him knowingly. “Just say what you’re getting at.” Straightening up, Mason confessed, “There’s this friend of mine whose company has been desperate to work with you. Their design team has sent you countless emails, but you’ve ignored them all. After a few drinks one night, I accidentally mentioned my connection to you, and now they’re begging me to help. Can you consider it?”Resting her chin in her hand, Liza asked lazily, “Which friend? And what’s the company’s name?” “I’m sure you’ve heard of it—it’s Stone Corporation, the biggest name in Li City!” Liza nearly choked on her tea. Coughing and struggling to catch her breath, she waved him off as Mason hurriedly poured her water and patted her back. Once she calmed down, he pressed on carefully, “So, what do you think? Can you give them a chance?” “We’ll see,” Liza replied wearily, brushing off the topic. Mason looked ready to cry. He had promised Gavin he’d secure this collaboration, but convincing Liza was proving impossible. Meanwhile, at the gates of Li City University, a line of university leaders stood in their finest suits, waiting anxiously. The arrival of an important guest had them on edge. A sleek black Maybach rolled to a stop, its presence commanding silent respect. George stepped out of the passenger seat, glanced at the gathered leaders, and turned to open the back door, bowing slightly. “President.” A polished leather shoe appeared first, followed by long legs in tailored trousers. When Gavin stepped out, a collective gasp rippled through the crowd. His sharp features, high nose bridge, and piercing eyes were framed by a cold, expressionless demeanor. Even without speaking, his presence exuded authority. “President Gavin,” the university leaders greeted him respectfully, quickly recovering their composure as they escorted him inside. Back in the office, Mason received word of Gavin’s arrival. He made one last attempt to persuade Liza. “Sister Liza, are you sure you won’t consider meeting my friend? Stone Corporation is one of the most influential companies in Li City. Collaborating with them would be a win for you.” Liza dismissed him with a wave. “The fashion design competition is about to start. Let’s deal with your friend later.”Mason sighed in defeat. There was no convincing her—not yet, anyway. … Inside the Chancellor’s Office As Gavin concluded a serious discussion with the university leaders, Mason stepped in, looking slightly tense. “I heard Ruby co will be serving as a judge for the competition. Have you come across her yet?” Gavin asked, his tone calm but probing. Mason shifted uncomfortably in his seat, clearly caught off guard by the question. “I have, but…” His voice trailed off, leaving the rest unsaid. Gavin didn’t need him to finish. With a faint scoff, he remarked, “It’s a lost cause.” Mason’s eyes widened. What do you mean ‘it’s doomed’? If you think it’s so easy, why don’t you try convincing her yourself! he thought bitterly but dared not say aloud. The chancellor, observing the exchange, cautiously interjected, “President Gavin, are you aiming to secure a collaboration with Master Ruby co this quarter?” Gavin gave him a brief, unreadable look but chose not to respond. Realizing his words might have been out of place, the chancellor forced a polite laugh. “Well, of course, who wouldn’t want to collaborate with Master Ruby co? It’s a rare opportunity.” Pausing thoughtfully, the chancellor continued, “Master Ruby co is known for her eccentric personality, and it’s no secret that working with her can be… challenging. However, if you’re finding it difficult to establish a partnership, I might have an alternative suggestion.” Gavin raised an eyebrow but remained silent, signaling the chancellor to proceed. “Our university has a particularly talented student named Serena. She’s one of the best designers we have, with a distinctive style that’s gaining recognition. More importantly, she’s Master Ruby co’s personal disciple and has received direct guidance from her,” the chancellor explained earnestly. The implication was clear—if collaborating with the elusive Ruby co wasn’t possible, partnering with her protégé, Serena, could be a viable second option. The suggestion hung in the air, met with silence. Gavin’s expression remained unreadable, while Mason shifted uncomfortably in his chair, stifling the urge to correct the chancellor’s misunderstanding.