When Hearts Collide: From Ashes to Love

Chapter 37: Turmoil

Zoe, acting like a mother hen protecting her chick, patted Marian's hand and said, "Alright, then let's just stay for now. After we finish eating, we can find a nice spot for afternoon tea."

Marian murmured a couple of "uh-huhs," forcing a thin smile to put everyone at ease.

Just then, the door to their private room swung open, and Aaron walked in, accompanied by professors and leadership from the university. He was in the center of the group, a testament to his status.

His gaze swept the room casually, pausing when he caught sight of Marian at a nearby table.

"Mr. Fu, right this way," the college leadership urged him forward with smiles, guiding him to the main table in front. The seat of honor was left empty, reserved specifically for him.

Aaron took his place, then spoke in a measured tone, "Professor, please, let's not be too formal. This is a class reunion, not a business meeting. I'm merely an alumnus of Xicheng University, so there's no need to call me Mr. Fu."

Still beaming, the college leadership nodded repeatedly. "Yes, yes, you're absolutely right."

But despite what they said, their attitude treated him as if he were still the revered Mr. Fu.

After all, before coming here, the president of the university had repeatedly instructed them to secure Yutou Group's sponsorship, which was rumored to be a 100 million donation.

What should have been a lively reunion took on an oppressive air the moment Aaron arrived. None of the classmates dared raise their voices; they merely whispered among themselves.

Zoe, always outspoken, made a sour face. "Certain people really are like a rat dropping ruining the whole pot of soup." Everyone at the table knew exactly who she meant, covering their mouths to stifle laughter. Even Marian broke into a smile. Still, she nudged Zoe's arm, hinting she should lower her voice. "Stop it. If he hears you, it'll be awkward." Zoe shrugged. "Barefoot folks aren't afraid of those wearing shoes. I'm not embarrassed—he'd be the one embarrassed."

Sensing the heavy atmosphere might be connected to him, Aaron raised his glass toward the college leadership and professors. "Professor, about the donation project, I've already instructed my staff to move forward. We should have the funds in the school's account by next month."

He then added, "You both must be busy with school matters. I truly appreciate you attending, but if it keeps you from your duties, I'd feel quite guilty."

The college leadership caught his drift—he was politely telling them to leave. They didn't mind; they'd already confirmed what the university president cared about. Draining his cup, the leader said, "Mr. Fu, you're absolutely right. We do have a lot on our plate, so the professor and I will return to campus. We appreciate Yutou Group's generosity and thank you on behalf of all our teachers and students!"

With that, the leadership stood and offered a quick explanation to everyone else before walking out the door.

Aaron stood as well, his voice cool yet tinged with courtesy. "Today's a class reunion. Have a good time—I'll cover everything!"

A classmate let out a whistle. "Mr. Fu, that's awesome!" and everyone cheered, the atmosphere reviving instantly.

Aaron chatted casually with a group of male classmates. Someone inquired about his job, and he didn't shy away, responding nonchalantly, "Yes, I'm a CEO. But it's exhausting—I sometimes feel like I'm working twenty-four hours a day."

Zoe snorted. "A capitalist trying to fit in with the commoners. Look at him, lording it over everyone."

Li Lin had a different view. "Come on, he doesn't seem so arrogant. He's right: the higher the position, the bigger the responsibility. Even my mid-level boss is drowning in eighteen-hour meetings daily."

Zoe rolled her eyes. "When someone wealthy or powerful claims they have it tough, it's just false modesty. Meanwhile, we truly overworked folks aren't receiving any sympathy from them!"

Li Lin felt stung by that remark, lowering her head to eat quietly.

Marian said nothing and placed some food onto Zoe's plate. "Why are you so fired up today? Eat some bitter melon and cool off."

"I'm just doing it for you," Zoe huffed.

Marian set down her chopsticks, speaking earnestly. "I told you I'm fine now. I'm working 9-9-6 every week, basically living at the project site. I'm begging on all sides for help—both mentally and physically drained. I have zero energy to dwell on the past!"

Li Lin nearly spat out her rice in a burst of laughter.

Zoe finally chilled out. "Alright, alright, I get it. Here, have a rib. You need the protein."

With that, their table's mood lightened, everyone reminiscing freely about old times, though carefully avoiding the subject of Marian and Aaron's past relationship. Midway through the meal, classmates began exchanging toasts. The class president and Aaron went around, table by table, greeting everyone with a drink. Zoe teased that they looked like a newlywed couple making the rounds. Marian just smiled.

By now, she was full. She checked her phone for messages in the project chat. She'd taken the afternoon off to attend, but she couldn't entirely ignore work—this was the project's final push, and she had to monitor everything closely.

When she was done reading, the class president and Aaron had arrived at her table. The class president was an earnest sort, at a loss for words before a table full of women. With an awkward smile, he said, "I'll toast you all. If you can't drink, don't force yourselves—juice is fine."

Zoe frowned. "Come on, Class Prez, we graduated five years ago. Who doesn't know how to drink by now?" With that, she tossed back half a glass of red wine.

Marian wasn't as bold but still finished half a mug of beer.

"Whoa," the class president exclaimed. "Marian, you can drink now?"

He recalled how, back in college, she once got drunk and caused quite the stir, sparking gossip in several dorms… all of which, incidentally, related to the man standing beside him, Aaron. The class president glanced his way, but Aaron's face remained impassive.

Time changes everything, the class president thought.

Marian smiled, her brows arching lightly. "Yep. I mean, I'm still not great. Beer is all I can handle. Wine or liquor? No way."

The class president nodded and moved on to the next table. But before he could, Aaron, holding his glass, extended it toward her. "Long time no see."