DONOVAN POV:
Philip Price entered the study. I was sitting in front of the massive floor-to-ceiling window, spinning a hockey stick in my hand. The green of the lawn outside was just a blur. My mind was still replaying a mistake from yesterday's practice.
"Sir, Miss Miller's termination agreement." Philip placed the folder on the desk.
I didn't turn around. "She signed it?" My voice was ice. "Did she ask for anything extra?"
This tutor was arranged by my housekeeper. I haven't even met her in person. All I know is that her code name is D.
She gives me online lessons, helps me with my homework, and sends me papers.
We have always been in contact using an encrypted number.
She is just a tool I use to deal with those stubborn old-timers in the administrative department. It's only to ensure that my average grade is high enough so that I can continue to play on the ice.
Ice hockey is the only thing I care about.
"No, sir." Philip's voice was as steady as ever. "In fact, she voluntarily waived the compensation stipulated in the agreement."
My wrist stopped moving. The stick went still.
Waived it? That money was enough for a regular student's tuition and living expenses for two years.
I slowly turned around, my blue eyes locking on Philip. I frowned, the old scar on my eyebrow becoming more pronounced. "Why would she do that?"
"She said it was a matter of principle, sir," Philip answered truthfully. "Personally, I believe Miss Miller is a young lady with a great deal of self-respect."
A quiet, cold laugh escaped my lips. Self-respect? In this world, was there anything more real than money? It was either a pathetic attempt to play hard to get, or she was just stupid.
Still, it sparked a flicker of interest. This girl seemed a little more interesting than I'd thought.
"Noted." I turned back to the window, resuming my indifferent posture. "Leave the agreement there. I'll deal with it in a couple of days."
"Sir," Philip reminded me, "the PR department advises handling this promptly to avoid any negative rumors about your academic standing. It could affect your NIL endorsement renewal next month."
I waved a dismissive hand. "Tell them to shut up and do as I say."
