Chapter 21 Surprise Grant let out a sharp reprimand, then explained to Oriana, "They're just causing a fuss, Oriana. Don't worry about it. The signing's all arranged-it's just a formality." Oriana remained calm. "When's the signing?" Alaric answered quickly, "Tomorrow at 3 p.m. The celebration dinner starts at 5. If everything goes smoothly, Grant will be done by 8. Just six hours. Oriana, can we borrow Grant for that?" Oriana nodded; a rare softening toward Grant in these past few days. "The signing is important. You should go," she said. Even though she wasn't as clingy or enthusiastic as before, the shift in her attitude was enough for Grant to see a glimmer of hope. He knew there had been a rift between them recently, but it was minor and would pass soon. Sure enough, in her heart, he and Aurora still came first. Grant felt a surge of joy. "I'll do as you say." "Yes! Oriana, you're amazing!" Alaric and the others cheered around her, practically treating her like a savior. Oriana watched quietly, suddenly realizing why they had been able to work together so long. They were all cut from the same cloth. The next morning, the house was quiet when Oriana got up. She assumed Grant had gone to the company early to prepare. She planned to pack the remaining things herself and later bring the luggage she had left at school. As she stepped out, Kirk called. "Oriana, the teaching assistant application has been stamped. You can check in at Jindiwood University Medical College with the electronic copy," he said. "Thank you, Mr. Locke," Oriana replied. "When are you planning to leave?" Kirk asked. "Today," Oriana said. "Ah, so soon? That's fine. I've already notified them there. Wishing you all the best," Kirk said. A smile curved Oriana's lips as she thanked him. She turned and suddenly bumped into Grant, who immediately asked sharply, "What are you up to today? Why are you so happy?" 1/3 Finished Oriana almost dropped her phone and spun around, meeting Grant's deep, intense gaze. She couldn't help but tense up. "Nothing," Oriana stammered, instinctively looking away. Her eyes dropped, noticing for the first time Grant's outfit, a custom high-end slate-gray suit she had never seen him wear. It fit him perfectly, the subtle silver threads in the dark fabric both understated and striking, proudly displaying the brand logo. Oriana knew Grant never cared about fashion, so it was obvious this expensive custom piece came from someone important. Grant looked a bit puzzled, then realized something, and a smile tugged at his lips. "Oriana, are we on the same wavelength? Were you secretly planning a surprise for me, too?" he asked. Oriana froze. A surprise? Kind of, but also, what did he mean? The next second, she understood. Grant took her hand-delicate and refined. Oriana had spent over a decade being pampered by the Sterling family, yet these past three years with him had been rough, leaving her soft palms calloused and rough, contrasting with the smooth elegance of her hand back. Thinking of this, Grant's heart softened even more. "Come on, Oriana. You're one of Aurora's partners. Come with me to the signing ceremony, and at the celebration, I'll formally introduce you to everyone," Grant said. Back then, Oriana had willingly given Grant the last sum of money from the Sterling family for his startup. He had taken it, promising her a stake as a partner and a share in future honor and wealth. Oriana had never been involved in Aurora's development or decisions; she only wanted Grant to succeed. Now, as she was close to cutting ties with him, he was going to introduce her formally. "No, I have things to do," Oriana instinctively refused. If she went with him, she wouldn't be able to leave. "Alright, I know you've always wanted to stay by my side, Oriana. This is a good opportunity. No fuss, okay?" Grant said gently but firmly. He held a cane in one hand and pulled her along with the other. 2/3 Oriana tried to struggle but couldn't break free. He forced her into the car. She twisted to get out, but he was faster and locked the door. Grant leaned in with a smile, buckling her seatbelt, looking at her flustered, lively eyes, and even brushing his nose affectionately against hers. "Don't worry. I'll be with you the whole time. No need to be nervous," Grant said. Oriana closed her eyes in despair. As the car started moving, she quickly messaged Zara. "Zara, can you do me a favor?" Zara replied, "What's up? Too much luggage? I can come find.you." Zara knew she was leaving for Jindiwood today. Oriana briefly explained, "I don't have time to pack. Can you take my school luggage to the airport? We'll meet there." Zara fumed, "Grant hasn't figured anything out, has he?" Oriana's chest tightened. She glanced at Grant driving ahead, his profile perfect, giving nothing away in his expression. 20 合 ! 3/3 Finished