Chapter 267

The faded school ID photo in the display case showed a softer, more youthful version of Vivian Hartley - rounder cheeks, untamed hair tucked behind ears, crisp uniform collar perfectly pressed. Now she stood before them like a vision, her beauty so striking it seemed almost otherworldly, as if she'd stepped out of some romantic fantasy.

Her warm hazel eyes held a depth of kindness that instantly captivated everyone in the room.

The teenage boys shuffled their feet awkwardly, cheeks flushing pink when she smiled at them. None dared meet her gaze directly for more than a second.

"Thank you for your generous donation, Mr. Montclair—" The principal's voice carried through the hall as he entered with his guest.

Vivian looked up sharply at the familiar voice. "Julian?"

There stood Julian Montclair in his signature crisp white shirt, the sleeves rolled up to reveal strong forearms. His easy smile radiated warmth that immediately put the entire room at ease.

Vivian remembered Julian mentioning growing up in Crestwood, but she'd never connected him to the schools in Willowbrook.

The principal glanced between them curiously. "Vivian, Mr. Montclair, you know each other?"

Julian turned to Vivian. "After I accompanied you to visit your mother's grave last year, I learned about the hardships you and your grandmother endured. It inspired me to start supporting schools here." He added with quiet sincerity, "I couldn't change your past, but perhaps I can help others facing similar struggles."

Sunlight streamed through the windows as Vivian felt her heart swell with unexpected emotion. Even back in their university days, Julian had always been the type to help quietly without seeking recognition.

The principal beamed. "We have Vivian to thank for Mr. Montclair's continued support all these years." The teachers nudged the gathered students forward. "Come now, show your appreciation to your inspiration."

The students who'd benefited from the scholarship program bowed deeply in unison. "Thank you!"

Touched by their gesture, Vivian shook her head modestly. "All credit goes to Mr. Montclair. I merely made the introduction."

The students then turned to Julian with equal reverence. "Thank you, sir."

Julian waved off their gratitude. "Seeing you all pursue your dreams is thanks enough." He gave an encouraging squeeze to the shoulder of the nearest student.

As Vivian prepared to leave, Julian smoothly interjected, "I can give you a ride."

She opened her mouth to decline when he leaned closer, whispering conspiratorially, "Help me escape the principal's inevitable dinner invitation? You know I can't hold my liquor."

Trapped between amusement and obligation, Vivian sighed. "Fine."

Outside, as they approached his sleek black Bentley, Vivian suddenly remembered something. "Were you at the cemetery yesterday?"

Julian unlocked the car doors. "I usually handle donations remotely, but since I was in Crestwood, I thought I'd pay my respects to your mother and check on the students." His lips quirked in that familiar half-smile. "Had to make sure my money wasn't funding juvenile delinquency."

Vivian swallowed her prepared polite response at his unexpected humor. Oblivious to her internal struggle, Julian held the car door open with old-fashioned courtesy. "After you."