A cacophony of voices filled the school's activity center as a group of female teachers gathered, their discussion so animated it seemed the ceiling might lift off.
"Did you hear that there is a dashing alumnus who launched a new grand project with our school, he's the head of Astra Tech!"
"Is that true? What's his purpose? Business or personnel?"
"Oh, you're out of the loop." a teacher chimed in, voice laced with feigned sophistication.
"Rumor has it, he's here to attempt to get back his ex-girlfriend. Imagine this, a successful businessman coming back to school to win over past love. How romantic, how devote."
"What?!" The surrounding area erupted in excitement, drawing the attention of students passing by.
"That's a wonderful story. Who is the girl? She is lucky enough to have such a handsome and passionate man pursuing her?"
"If I were her, I'd accept his proposal on the spot!"
"You spinsters don't hold back, do you?" a few male teachers passing by mocked, earning a series of eye rolls in response.
During the chaos, Grace Jones, deeply engrossed in her research, couldn't help but overhear the absurd gossip.
As an exceptional student, she was not only academically accomplished and strikingly attractive but also known for her straightforward and fiery demeanor, usually dismissing unfounded rumors with contempt.
However, this time, she was seething with anger-the so-called "passionate suitor" the CEO named Daniel Evans, was the very person she despised.
"Grace, what's wrong? You look like you're about to commit murder." Eva Hudson commented, placing a cup of water on her desk with concern.
"It's nothing, just some ridiculous rumors." Grace replied, managing a strained smile while suppressing her rage.
"Oh, I see, it's about the sensational big news that's got our campus buzzing!" Eva said with a knowing smile, but noticing Grace's mood darkening, she quickly changed the subject.
"Anyway, as you might have noticed, I got here earlier than you today, because I wanted to get well-prepared for today's lessons."
Grace noticed nonchalant tone by her best friend, then teased, "Wait a second! Don't tell me you've finally decided to pursue that physics professor you've been admiring from afar?"
"What are you talking about? I don't have a crush on anyone!" Eva blushed, hastily looking down to organize her papers.
Grace chuckled, shaking her head.
As she turned to leave, a surge of disgust washed over he. Daniel had entered the room, exuding arrogance as if he owned the place as if the entire campus owed him something.
While Grace gritted her teeth in frustration, she heard Eva whisper." These damn campus rumors can be so damaging.".
A chilling realization dawned on Grace: Could Eva possibly know that I am Daniel's passionate pursuit?
As she pondered, a familiar, pompous voice called out from behind, "Hi, Grace, have you made up your mind already?"
Grace Jones froze, turning to face his impassive face.
For the first time, his brazen audacity left her speechless, and just as she was about to react, his next words silenced her.
"Scared? My dear lady? I'm just here to see if you're ready to move in with me."
The crowd murmured, and countless eyes scanned Grace. Her face reddened, and she was at a loss for words.
As she opened her mouth to retort, Daniel covered it with his hand. His lips twisted into a sly smile. "Shhhh, no need to talk, just obey."
His eyes narrowed dangerously, thumb caressing her swollen lips. "I'm waiting for you to shack up with me. Remember, be good, stop thinking of running away from me."
With that, he released her and strode away, leaving her alone and flustered.