---- Chapter 17 No.17 Ethan sneered. "Immature before? Isn't it ridiculous for you to say that now?" Ava's face turned pale. A surge of annoyance rose in Ethan's heart. He didn't want to say that. This was what he had hoped for. He was about to say more, but Ava cut him off. It is ridiculous, she admitted. "If you don't like me calling you my guardian, | won't." | will find a way to repay your kindness over the years, she said. "From now on, besides gratitude, there will be nothing else between us." After speaking, she bowed deeply, then turned and ran towards Julian Ethan felt a churning in his chest. He hadn't come here to hear this. For the past ten years, Ava had called him all sorts of endearing names. This was the first time she had called him "Mr. Hayes." For a moment, the tall, imposing figure of Ethan Hayes looked ---- utterly defeated. A few minutes later, Ava and Julian were out of his sight. This was the first time Ethan had ever seen Ava walk away from him. His hands clenched into fists. He had long prepared himself for the day Ava would leave and get married, but seeing her walk away for real, his heart ached unbearably. Ava and Julian walked towards the apartment. Although she knew Julian hadn't heard everything, she still felt embarrassed. Julian was tactful and didn't ask about Ethan, instead chatting about their coursework. As they talked about her studies, the unpleasantness caused by Ethan's appearance began to fade. They reached the apartment building. There was still more to discuss about her studies. Ava wanted to say thank you, but it felt strange. Instead, she asked how Julian knew her father. Julian explained that he had met her father at a banquet and was involved in some of her father's business ventures. Ava was surprised. She hadn't realized their connection ran that deep. She suddenly laughed. Julian was puzzled. "| just think you're amazing," she said. "I ---- hope to be like you one day." Perhaps you'll be even better than me, Julian said. Ava smiled lightly. "| hope so too." Julian's lips curved into a smile. He found her confidence and ambition endearing. Ethan left the university, unable to find Ava. He quickly found her apartment building. The door was knocked. Ava thought it was Julian. When she opened it, she saw Ethan. She was surprised. She thought he wouldn't come looking for her again. Ethan ignored her surprise and dialed her number. "Your phone didn't ring." He opened his messaging app. "Why did you block me? What have | ever done to you?" You said you respected me as your guardian. Is this how you show your respect? he demanded. Ava recovered from her shock. Her hands clenched slightly. She took a deep breath and looked at him. "What are you doing here?" Ethan's cold expression instantly turned dark. "I'm taking you back. I'll arrange for you to transfer to Wharton." 1