As Liza approached the university gates, a commotion drew her attention. Students had gathered, their excitement palpable. “Wow, look at that luxury car!” someone exclaimed. “It’s stunning! Whose car is that?” A more informed student snorted. “Clearly, you don’t know much. That’s the Reed Family’s car. Judging by the style, it must be the eldest daughter of the Reed Family.” Another student frowned. “Eldest Miss Sophia ? Is she a student here? Why haven’t I heard of her before?” Hearing the name Eldest Miss Sophia , Liza couldn’t help but smirk faintly. It seemed someone was eager to make her presence known, even chasing her down to the university. The murmurs continued as a well-informed student eagerly shared gossip. “You might not know Eldest Miss Sophia , but you’ve definitely heard of the Stone family’s eldest young master. Rumor has it she’s set on marrying into the Stone family and tying the knot with him.” The mention of the Stone family’s eldest young master caused a stir. Even among students who weren’t well-connected, Gavin’s name carried weight. Those from influential families in particular were all too familiar with him, having grown up under strict instructions to avoid provoking him. “Wait,” someone interjected. “Are you saying Eldest Miss Sophia is marrying Gavin?” “Exactly!” the gossiping student confirmed, lowering their voice for dramatic effect. “Apparently, this marriage was arranged ages ago by the Stone family’s old master himself. You know how these wealthy families are—they love cementing alliances through marriage. But this isn’t just a political move. From what I’ve heard, the two are completely in love.” A chorus of agreement rippled through the crowd. “That makes sense. Gavin doesn’t need to marry for status or power. If he’s pursuing this, it must be true love.”Nearby, George, one of Gavin’s trusted aides, overheard the conversation and stifled a laugh. Internally, he rolled his eyes. True love? Hardly. In Gavin’s mind, the only person who mattered was the mysterious Miss Liza. While even George didn’t know her true identity, he knew that Gavin had gone to the Civil Affairs Bureau for her. Unfortunately, Miss Liza had never shown up. Whether it was due to hesitation or outright refusal, she had clearly declined to marry him. And that decision had led to Gavin’s current marriage—to Liza. Gavin scanned the crowd with a detached air, his gaze briefly settling on Sophia. Without much interest, he asked, “Where is Liza?” George stepped forward promptly and replied, “Madam went back to the car. She’s likely waiting for you there.” Gavin nodded slightly and then said in a calm but commanding tone, “Deal with those spreading the gossip. Their chatter is irritating.”George froze for a moment, taken aback by the unexpected instruction, but quickly complied. “Understood.” This was unusual. Gavin had always been indifferent to idle talk. Now, he seemed bothered by rumors about who was infatuated with whom. Could it be that he was worried such nonsense might upset Liza? Meanwhile, Sophia made her entrance on the university campus with a conspicuous display of wealth. Flanked by bodyguards, she strolled confidently, her presence immediately capturing the attention of students. She was the epitome of high society—impeccable beauty, an elegant figure, and an aura that screamed exclusivity. Even the handbag dangling casually from her arm probably cost more than what many of the students’ families could earn in a year. While many admired her from afar, a discreet bodyguard approached Sophia and whispered something in her ear. Her expression shifted instantly. “He left? With whom?” she demanded, her tone sharp. The bodyguard hesitated before answering, “H-he left with Miss Liza.” The name ignited a storm in Sophia’s chest. Her eyes widened in fury as she clenched her fists tightly. Liza! That lowly woman must have anticipated her visit today and deliberately clung to Gavin to avoid her. Did Liza think she could monopolize Gavin? What arrogance! Suppressing her anger, Sophia let out a derisive chuckle. She glanced at the surrounding students, an idea forming in her mind. Public opinion was a powerful weapon. Did Liza honestly believe that being called Mrs. Stone meant she was invincible? Nearby, a few students had been surreptitiously taking photos of Sophia, intrigued by her glamorous demeanor. As they watched, her expression shifted. Her anger gave way to a heart-wrenching vulnerability, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. She looked utterly aggrieved, her beauty even more striking in her apparent sorrow. Her noble composure, even while distressed, left an impression on everyone watching. Sophia composed herself and approached the students with a gracious yet sorrowful air. “Excuse me,” she began, her voice soft yet tinged with melancholy. “Do you happen to know Liza?” The students were stunned, unable to believe that someone as prestigious as Eldest Miss Sophia was speaking to them directly. Flattered, they nodded eagerly. “Yes, of course, we know her. Miss Sophia , why are you looking for her?” Sophia’s eyes shimmered with unshed tears, the redness in them making her look even more delicate. “Could you tell me where she is?” The students exchanged uncertain glances. They hadn’t expected this question, nor did they have an answer. “We’re sorry, Miss Sophia ,” one of them finally said hesitantly. “We don’t actually know where Liza is right now.” Sophia’s expression tightened imperceptibly, but she maintained her poised demeanor, her mind already scheming her next move.