David Macmillan was unusually enthusiastic toward Sophia Sullivan in his office.
He barely acknowledged Ethan Sullivan's presence.
"Miss Sullivan, these are all rare pieces I've collected over the years."
David began introducing the artifacts with a smile.
"A gold-inlaid jade bracelet, white jade bangle with Eight Immortals motif, gold filigree earrings, the 'Blessings and Longevity' hairpin..."
He gestured toward the porcelain displayed further away.
"And over there, a Guanyin vase and a jade spring vase. Please feel free to choose any."
Finally, he carefully retrieved a brocade box.
Inside lay an exquisitely carved jade pendant.
"I heard you appreciate jade. This four-hundred-year-old Hetian jade is for you."
David was practically offering his entire collection.
This wasn't just about repaying a favor.
He wanted to retain the talent standing before him.
"I'm getting old. Teaching has become difficult."
"I fear these traditional crafts may be lost."
"If you're willing to stay and teach, I'd even step down as dean for you."
Tears glistened in the old man's eyes.
But fate couldn't be forced.
Sophia silently surveyed the treasures filling the room.
After a moment's contemplation, she spoke.
"David, I can't stay."
"Why? The students adore you."
David pressed urgently.
He'd believed his sincerity would move her.
Sophia recalled the classroom scenes vividly.
The students' eager eyes still shone clearly in her memory.
"They are indeed exceptional."
"Full of vitality and pure-hearted."
"But..."
She shook her head gently.
"I'm not a professional restorer."
"Just someone with some passing knowledge."
Sophia knew her limitations well.
Occasional guidance was manageable, but systematic teaching wasn't her forte.
"You're too modest."
David's expression darkened.
His admiration was genuine.
"Teaching requires long-term commitment."
"I won't remain in A-City permanently."
Sophia's tone was firm.
"I won't be an irresponsible instructor."
"But I promise to help whenever needed in the future."
No matter where life took her, she'd remember this bond.
Ethan's hand trembled slightly as he held his teacup.
Tea leaves swirled in the liquid.
At "won't remain permanently," his chest tightened.
Yet he merely lowered his gaze to conceal his emotions.
David finally relented.
"Very well, I won't insist."
He looked at Sophia's youthful face with deep regret.
"The position of visiting expert will always be yours."
"The Treasure Appraisal Institute's doors remain open to you."
"I'll visit when possible."
Sophia smiled in response.
Truthfully, she had another purpose today.
Her gaze flickered toward the closed office door.
"About what I asked you to find earlier—any leads?"
Her voice carried subtle anticipation.
David hesitated, glancing at Ethan.
"It's fine. He knows about this matter."
Sophia assured him.
Only then did David open his desk drawer.
He retrieved a wooden box.
"Some clues emerged, but I can't be certain."
Lifting the lid, he revealed the contents.
"This gold-wrapped jade earring came from the black market."
Sophia's fingers clenched abruptly upon seeing it.
"The serpentine design resembles what you described."
"Unfortunately, it's damaged beyond clear identification."
David sighed regretfully.
"I attempted restoration but failed."
Sophia drew a deep breath.
"This is it."
Her voice trembled faintly.
After all these years, she'd finally found traces of her mother.
The truth was now within reach.