I wasn’t entirely shocked. I knew Alex was powerful; I just didn’t expect him to be so charismatic.

Mr. Augustine finally summoned the courage to step forward. “Mr. Hastings, we’ll take full responsibility for the university’s lack of oversight. Mr. Herbs lacked judgment and unfairly punished Ms. Ashford, so he’ll be demoted.” He continued, “Regarding the rumors, the university will release the original video on our official website to clear Ms. Ashford’s name. Do you find that acceptable?” Alex nodded slightly before turning to me. “What do you think?”

“I think this is splendid,” I said, nodding fervently. All I wanted was to dispel the rumors and escape the public attention. I didn’t want Alex to go to war on my behalf. I was worried he would become entangled in these absurd rumors. Someone like him shouldn’t be stained by baseless gossip.

“Alright then. We’ll take our leave,” Alex said, standing and politely nodding at Mr. Augustine and Mr. Herbs. As he walked past Julian, he stopped briefly. “I’m targeting the Blakes because I’m unhappy with your behavior. If you have any dignity left, stop making things difficult for Serena.”

Ian’s face flushed crimson with embarrassment.

Once we left the attic, Julian took the car keys from his assistant. “Get in.” I watched as the assistant said goodbye to Alex and headed toward the university gate. I felt uneasy. “Where is he going?”

Alex looked at me. “He’s going home, of course. Am I supposed to drive him home personally?” So, this was the privilege of the wealthy. I could only complain silently. After all, Alex had just solved a massive problem for me, and I was joining Hastings Group soon.

“Where are we going?” I asked as I approached the passenger seat.

Alex got in the car. “Dinner.”

Alex took me to a high-end restaurant owned by Hastings Group. The staff looked at me curiously while greeting Alex. I wished I could disappear.

“What’s your take on this matter?” Alex asked.

I was slightly taken aback. He continued, “This situation isn’t as simple as it seems. Someone is pulling the strings behind the scenes.” I’d thought of that, but had no idea who was responsible.

“You should be more careful at the university,” Alex said, placing a piece of bread on my plate. I nodded, and the atmosphere became quiet.

“How are your interview preparations going?” Alex asked.

I nodded. “I’m ready, but I have a small request. Can I not join the company directly? I want to attend Hastings Group’s recruitment fair.”

Alex looked at me. “With your qualifications, are you sure you can even pass the recruitment process?”

I wasn’t confident, but I didn’t want to show weakness. “I think so. I might be a fresh graduate, but I have a very good record at the university.”

Alex nodded. “Alright. When applying, only apply for the office assistant position.”

I asked, “Why that position?”

“Less competition,” Alex said with a straight face.

I frowned. “But I didn’t see that position on the company website.”

Alex smiled. “You must double-check once you get home.”