Coincidentally, she was a bit short on cash lately and wanted to borrow some from Ione. Darcy only learned about Kaia's visit when she got home from work. After washing her hands, she sat at the dining table and rolled up her sleeves. "What did she come for?" Ione didn't notice the lack of warmth in her daughter's voice when she mentioned Kaia. "She had the day off and came to see me." "Mm." Darcy picked up her fork and started eating, not asking further. Kaia's attitude last night made it clear their relationship could never go back to what it was. But her mother was different. Ione saw Kaia as a daughter. If Kaia meant no harm to her mother and was still affectionate toward her as before,there was no need to tell her mother everything and worry her. Ione had intended to mention that Kaia had also borrowed a small amount of money today. But her daughter seemed in low spirits. Suddenly, she recalled what Kaia had said earlier. Kaia mentioned Darcy had quit SummitCore, was struggling to find a job, had sneaked into a forum to network, and had seen her buying a bunch of luxury items last night—probably dirty money. Ione put down her fork and knife, hurried to the bedroom, fetched her wallet, and returned to the table. "Here, take this." Ione slid a bank card toward Darcy. Darcy was stunned. "Mom, why are you giving me your card?" "I know you're looking for a job and need money. Take it."Hearing this, Darcy immediately understood. Kaia must have told her mother about their encounter. She pushed the card back. "I already found a job. The salary and benefits are double what I had before. I don't need money. You keep this. It's your hard-earned retirement savings. I won't take it." Ione was surprised. "You found a job already? So fast?" "Yeah. Your daughter is capable and talented. Plenty of people want me," Darcy said proudly. Ione smiled, patting her daughter's head. "My girl is amazing!" But thinking of Darcy's situation with Zane, she sighed again. She tested the waters. "So, you and Zane are really done? I think he's a decent kid. Didn't he come looking for you the other night?" Darcy's hand holding the fork paused. She hadn't realized her mother saw Zane that night. Ione continued, "I think he does love you, he's just not good at expressing it. Want to give it another thought?" "No." Darcy put down her fork and wiped her mouth with a napkin. Her clear eyes met her mother's. "Mom, don't bring him up again. I'm done wasting time on him. Whether he loves me or not, I don't care anymore." Even mentioning Zane was a waste of breath... Ione sighed, "Alright, alright. I won't mention him again." ... Another Saturday, Darcy was studying at the library. As lunchtime approached, she was about to pack up and head to the cafeteria when her phone rang. She answered to find Jethro on the line. Jethro asked, "Free for lunch? I'll take you to my uncle's place."What?! Her mind flashed back to their conversation on the way to the forum, when he mentioned taking her to Alistair's house. She'd thought it was a joke. She hadn't expected it to be real. What surprised Darcy even more was that Jethro remembered and was actively bringing it up. She hadn't expected a business leader of his stature to remember such a small thing. She felt a touch of gratitude. She really hadn't misjudged him. Jethro was an excellent boss! "Yes, of course I have time!" Darcy replied without hesitation. "Good. Meet at the North Gate in ten minutes." The North Gate of Quest University led directly to the faculty housing. Unsure when she'd return, Darcy decided to take her backpack. As she approached the gate, she saw a conspicuous Rolls-Royce parked by the curb. A tall, elegant man stood under a tree, one hand in his pocket, looking distinguished. He stood straight, with handsome features. Many female students passing by couldn't help but glance at him. Even Darcy couldn't help slowing down. Her boss was truly handsome. Top-tier look, with a gentle, easy vibe to match. Especially now, his gaze as he looked over was warm and clear. "Jethro," Darcy greeted him, approaching. She followed his rule—off the clock, use his name. "Mm. Get in." Jethro opened the passenger door, placing one hand protectively on the roof. The car started. Two minutes later, it turned into an old, quiet lane and stopped. Getting out, Darcy suddenly remembered something."I forgot to buy something," she said, embarrassed. Jethro smiled faintly, "Buy what?" "Gifts. You can't visit someone empty-handed. Is there a supermarket or convenience store nearby?" "Not necessary," Jethro chuckled, opening the trunk. "I bought a lot. Pick two items. They'll count as yours." Uh... Is this okay?