Mom was the only family I had left in this world. If she had sinned, I was willing to bear half the burden. Because of this, I had lived for years with a sense of inferiority and self-doubt.

This time, the silence between Alex and me lasted longer than before. As the plane was about to land, Alex suddenly said, “You’re going to graduate soon. What are your plans after graduation?”

That immediately lifted my spirits. As a young woman about to enter society, I was naturally full of eager anticipation.

“I’m planning to submit my resume to some major companies and attend their recruitment fairs. Then, I’ll choose a suitable company for an interview,” I replied.

“Is Hastings among those companies?” Alex asked.

I had gone to great lengths to ensure one of the companies I selected was associated with the Hastings Group.

Unexpectedly, Alex’s expression darkened. “You’re being too naive.”

His sudden anger was puzzling. I looked up at him, wondering what I had done to provoke him.

“Large companies nowadays generally look for candidates with a master’s or doctorate degree. You’re just a fresh undergraduate with no significant work experience. What makes you think any major company would give you an opportunity?” Alex asked.

Even though his words were logical, I disliked hearing them.

“Don’t underestimate me,” I said coldly. I refused to back down. “I have significant experience from university and have already worked in the field. I’m a hard worker, and I got into Grandview University with one of the top scores.”

“Social experience and adaptability are far more important than academic achievements,” Alex sighed. He softened his tone. “You can come work at Hastings Group.”

I shook my head firmly.

A hint of exasperation crossed his face, but he still drove me back to campus.

“With regards to work, don’t be so quick to reject me. Think it over carefully,” Alex said, gripping the steering wheel.

I nodded. “Think about returning to the Hastings residence as well,” I added.

The car’s temperature seemed to drop. I knew Alex didn’t want to hear it, but I still said, “I’ll do my best to make up for the harm my mother caused you.” After saying that, I got out of the car. I only dared to look back after walking a considerable distance. Alex’s car was already gone.

That night, I couldn’t stop replaying the day’s events and couldn’t fall asleep.

“Serena, you’ve been tossing and turning all night. Are you planning on letting no one sleep?” Lila sat up.

“Sorry, I’ll try not to move so much,” I said with a chuckle. Lila jumped up and climbed into my bed. “Forget it. Tell me, Serena. Why can’t you sleep?”

“I… I don’t know how to explain it to her,” I mumbled. I found it difficult to talk about it.

“Out with it,” Lila said softly, closing her eyes.

“It’s about the job offer at Hastings Group,” I replied.

“Isn’t that a good thing? You’re being offered a job; you’re sleeping on that?” Lila cracked open one eye.

Lila raised a hand and tapped the bed. “What’s there to lose sleep over? If Mr. Hastings is offering good pay and benefits, then pick him. If any other company offers better terms, then pick the other company.”