C17 Why Did You Come to Galvorn University?

To understand just how impressive Zorin's reputation was, one only needed to browse through the Galvorn University campus forum. Juno's entire perception of him was shaped by the glowing testimonials found there. He was consistently described as gentle, refined, and the epitome of a gentleman.

Yet Juno had witnessed moments when this paragon of virtue displayed his most passionate and unrestrained side. She was convinced that any woman would be captivated by Zorin's charm and fall head over heels for him. But not Juno. She was all too aware of the dangers that such a man posed and the vast chasm that lay between them.

In a moment of boldness, Juno seized his wrist, her eyes searching his for answers. "Why did you come to Galvorn University?"

"Is that question so important to you? Galvorn is my alma mater, after all. Why shouldn't I be here?" Zorin leaned in closer, ensuring she could hear his every word. "What's the matter? Are you scared I'll expose your secrets? Hmm?"

"Director Slater, I'm here to focus on my studies," Juno replied, her lips pressed tightly together. She could not afford to lose the scholarship for any reason. It was more than just a key to freedom; it was the embodiment of her dreams. She longed to study abroad, to distance herself from the Fowler family, and to escape the unsettling presence of this man...

Observing her demeanor, a hint of amusement flickered in Zorin's eyes. He leisurely began to unbutton his suit jacket, his fingertips grazing the fabric as if to test her resolve.

Juno waited anxiously for his response, feeling her patience wane.

"Do you really want that scholarship to study abroad?" Zorin asked, shifting the conversation. "There are only four spots available. Do you think you stand a chance?"

Juno sensed the implication in his words. "What are you getting at?"

"The Slater Group has always been a major benefactor of Galvorn University. What do you think I'm implying?" Zorin's eyes gleamed with a teasing light. "The Slater Group reviews and decides on the scholarship recipients each year. What do you suppose would happen if I were to strike your name from the list?"

"No!" Juno's response was immediate, her body tensing as she inadvertently brushed against Zorin's arm, prompting a subtle deepening of his gaze. "I desperately need that scholarship! Director Slater, regardless of how I may have wronged you in the past, I truly need it!"

She was so anxious that her tone of voice became noticeably agitated. Academic achievement was her sole source of pride, and she was determined not to let this dream fall apart.

Juno had heard that Galvorn University received support from some of society's elite due to its prestigious reputation, but she had never imagined that the Slater family was one of the hidden shareholders.

"Do you really want to go?" Zorin inquired, his tone noticeably softening as he caught sight of the hope in her eyes. "Alright, there's no problem. You're already on the recommended list. But why should I do this for you, Miss Fowler? What's our relationship? A client and an escort? It seems your services weren't exactly satisfactory."

Juno's breath hitched, and she spoke with difficulty, "Director Slater, I truly need this spot. I promise to value this chance to study abroad and will always be grateful for your generosity."

"Miss Fowler, I'm in business. I'm interested in what's beneficial now, not in the future," Zorin said, his eyebrows arching as he gave a cold smile. "You still owe me for last night; today seems like a good time to settle that debt."