Song Ying frowned, a trace of disappointment flickering in her eyes. "Their marriage is solid, Xu Ran. I really don't think anyone could come between them."

She set her coffee cup down on the table with a thud, splashing a few drops onto the surface.

"Song Song, I literally came to see you right after getting off my flight, and all you do is take a stranger's side." Her face was full of displeasure. "Anyway, all I did was ask. What's so wrong with showing a little concern for a classmate?"

Song Ying knew exactly what she was thinking. Xavier Foster was the heir to the Fu family in the capital, and there was never any shortage of ambitious people trying to get close to him—even if they couldn't, at least they wanted to be recognized by face.

Back then, Xavier Foster wasn't even a student at S University; he'd attended a prestigious private school abroad but had ties with Professor Liu from the finance department.

Song Ying, as the student council president at the time, had encountered him a few times, thanks to the sponsorship deals between his family and the school.

Xu Ran, on the other hand, was a year younger—a campus beauty at S University, envied and pursued by many, and naturally, she carried herself with a certain pride.

She didn't think much of others, but having heard some things about Xavier Foster, she had started—whether intentionally or not—to create associations between herself and him. Even just passing by each other on the same road became, in her mind, a so-called romantic encounter.

She once tried to deliver a love letter to him upon graduation, but was intercepted by the Fu family's bodyguards.

Xavier Foster likely had no idea she even existed.

"He doesn't need your concern. Also, Miss Ye isn't some random stranger to me. I'm the one responsible for her health now, and she's a genuinely good person. I'd appreciate it if you didn't talk about her."

Song Ying took a napkin and wiped her hands, clearly preparing to leave.

Xu Ran panicked and softened her tone, "Don't go, Song Song. Let's just finish our coffee. I won't mention her again, okay?"

Only then did Song Ying pick up her cup again. Xu Ran sneered inwardly. Her own family background was nothing special, and during these years abroad, if she wanted to live comfortably, carry luxury bags, or buy designer brands, she naturally had to trade something for it.

Youth and beauty were her assets, and she could see things clearly now—no man would devote himself to just one woman forever. Sooner or later, he'd grow bored.

Now, with her intentions to settle in the capital, she had to find someone wealthy to lean on. As for Song Ying, she could probably still squeeze a bit more information out of her.

"By the way," Xu Ran suddenly remembered, "the school's centennial is next month. Song Song, we should go together."

Song Ying merely hummed, already losing interest in continuing the conversation. She was always someone who drew sharp lines; even old friends, if she saw something in them she couldn't accept, she would slowly distance herself and maintain a polite separation.

It might seem a bit cold-hearted, but that was just who she was—and she didn't feel compelled to change.

Their rare reunion as best friends ended on a rather sour note, with both finishing their coffee before parting ways.

……

In the office of the Fu Group, Xavier Foster opened an invitation in his hand.

It was for S University's centennial celebration. He frowned—he'd never attended S University himself, but as a leading school in the capital, the Fu family donated generously every year.

He glanced at the date: June 20th. He honestly had no intention of going.

By then, Cecilia would be eight months pregnant—with just two months left, he planned to stay home with her.

Xavier Foster tossed the invitation aside. Only this morning, Professor Liu had already called and specially asked him to attend, hoping he would give a speech as a long-time sponsor.

Just then, someone knocked at the office door. Lao San poked his head in, carrying a food thermos. "Boss, Madam is here."

Cecilia was outside, chatting with Henry Hart.

Xavier Foster stood and went out to bring her in.

Lao San set the thermos on the table and scampered away.

"What brings you here so early today?"

He reached out and gently led Cecilia toward the table.

"I woke up missing you," she said, flashing a sweet smile. "I asked Aunt Whitney to make lunch quickly so I could bring it over."

Ever since Dr. Song had visited a few days ago and suggested she move around more to keep the baby from getting too big, Cecilia had started bringing Xavier Foster lunch at the office every day—so she could see him and they could eat together. She was delighted by this new routine.

Xavier Foster sat down in his chair and pulled Cecilia onto his lap. Cecilia glanced at his computer. Good—he wasn’t in a meeting today.

Seeing her actions, Xavier Foster smiled. Even if he had a meeting, he wouldn't need to hold it in his office. Besides, his Cecilia was always a little scatterbrained these days.

"Are you tired?"

Cecilia shook her head. "Not at all. You go ahead and work. Can I keep you company here?"

Xavier Foster was more than happy to oblige, letting her lean against him as he scooted his chair forward. "Mmm, just relax with me for a bit."

He picked up some documents and started to read. Cecilia nestled quietly in his arms, her tiny fingers fiddling with his collar.

The office was silent and peaceful. After finishing a file, Xavier Foster leaned down and kissed her gently.

They sat quietly like that for a while, until Cecilia straightened up. The baby had been especially restless today, and staying in one position felt uncomfortable.

"What's wrong? Not feeling well?" Xavier Foster kissed the top of her head, pausing his work.

"Mm, are you done? Can I sit on the couch for a bit?"

"No rush—these aren't urgent." He pressed his strong hands to her waist and began to massage her gently.

Cecilia straightened up, and as she did, her eyes caught a glimpse of a red invitation packet on the desk. She reached out and picked it up.