After warning Pauline, Gwenda finally found peace of mind, allowing her to work more attentively. KG Entertainment, having lost two artists in a row—the Lan Russell scandal plastered all over the internet—was struggling. Their stock plummeted, and they faced widespread online criticism from fans.

Gwenda was leaving her classroom when she checked the news about KG Entertainment. Just as she was about to read further, August called.

"Hello, August!" Gwenda answered sweetly.

August scoffed, raising an eyebrow. "Where are you?"

"I'm at school. Just finished classes. August, why did you call?" Gwenda was surprised; they hadn't spoken since she borrowed money from him. "Wait for me at the school gate. I'll pick you up for lunch," August said, hanging up before she could respond. Frowning at the darkening screen, she wondered, Lunch? Why does he want lunch with me?

Ten minutes later, August's car pulled up. He rolled down the window, revealing his handsome face. Gwenda got in. "August, why the sudden lunch invitation?"

"It's not me," he corrected, revving the engine and driving off.

Gwenda was puzzled. "If not you, then who?"

August ignored her. Seeing he wouldn't answer, Gwenda changed the subject, smiling. "August, are you still keeping your word?"

"What word?" August asked casually, raising an eyebrow.

"What? You haven't forgotten! You promised to transfer Grandma's shares if I proved myself," Gwenda said, startled by his attitude. "Did I prove myself?"

August snorted. "You don't think aiding an internet celebrity's rise to fame counts, do you?"

"Internet celebrity?" Gwenda's face fell. "August, Cecilia isn't an internet celebrity! She debuted as a proper artist; she just gained popularity on short-video platforms first. She's now on a TV music program."

"Then tell me, what's Cecilia's endorsement fee? How many high-end endorsements does she have?" August's question was pointed.

Gwenda was speechless.

"No answer? Then what else is she but an internet celebrity?" August scoffed sarcastically.

Gwenda clenched her teeth. "Cecilia's just starting out! Her achievements are excellent for her current stage. Do you want her to run before she can walk?"

"No, but her current position isn't conducive to her development."

"How's that?" Gwenda huffed. "August, don't be a buzzkill just because you don't want me to have Grandma's shares. I'm trying my best!"

Gwenda was furious. If not for his past kindness, she would have complained to her grandmother!

"You wouldn't understand, brat," August rolled his eyes.

"How would I understand if you won't explain?" Gwenda retorted angrily. "You're the brat!"

She turned to the window, ignoring him. Silence fell, heavy and tense. Fortunately, they soon reached the restaurant. August got out first. Gwenda followed, but as he walked toward the entrance, she said sullenly, "I don't want to eat with you anymore."

August stopped and looked back. "Fine. Leave. But don't say I didn't give you chances." He continued toward the restaurant.

Gwenda was stunned. Chances? What chances?