Chapter 589
These alumni were all famous within their own circles in the country. They were the pride of Alnewgo University. Most people would only see them on their
television screens, but the students were given a chance to see them in person on this day.
Amongst the alumni was Alexi, who had recommended Jack to the university. He initially didn't have the time to attend the celebration, but he had ultimately conceded after George's enthusiastic encouragement and the idea of so many of his old classmates making an appearance. Thus, he had rushed to return to the university the day before.
Next to him stood an elegant woman. Her makeup was light but no less attractive, and every movement she made oozed with the charm of a mature woman. Jack was surprised to see that the woman was none other than Bella's mother, Clarice. They were truly destined to run into each other no matter where they went.
Jack had been cracking his head trying to think of a way to meet Clarice to find out the reason for Bella's departure. He didn't expect her to appear before him just like that.
He suddenly recalled the time he had dinner with Clarice, and how the topic of conversation had constantly orbited around the centennial celebration. Clarice had received an invitation because she was also an alumni of Alnewgo University.
Alexi and Clarice appeared to be close to each other. They chatted amongst themselves as they walked.
Alexi was all smiles as he said, "Clarice, I heard your daughter is also studying in Alnewgo University. Why don't I treat the two of you to a meal after the celebration is over? We can have a gathering with a few of our old classmates."
Clarice replied with a smile, "Sure. I won't say no if you're treating us. However, my daughter might not be able to join us. She has transferred to Montclair Conservatory."
Alexi looked shocked. "Why did she transfer to Montclair? The standard of Alnewgo University's School of Music is comparable to Montclair in the past couple of years."
"She started dating someone, but Jasper didn't approve," Clarice explained, melancholy swimming in her eyes.
The Avans family had strict family rules that didn't allow their children to date when they were still studying. Jasper Avans, who was the head of the family, also wished for Bella to enter an arranged marriage to increase the Avans family's political power. He would never allow her to marry an unknown man who had nothing to his name.
If Bella married Jack, her future would become extremely uncertain. She might even waste the bountiful wealth and resources of the Avans family.
Alexi nodded in understanding. He was a little knowledgeable about how the Avanses operated.
A family such as theirs would definitely not allow their children to marry someone who was not of the same standing as them. It would be considered a great sin that would bring misfortune upon their family.
Alexi dropped the topic and switched to talking about the achievements of their peers in recent years. The mood turned lively and comfortable once more. They arrived at the designated seats for the invited guests soon after.
When Alexi sat down, he realized that the seat to his right was empty. He swiveled his head around but couldn't spot Jack anywhere, so he waved a student council member who was nearby over.
Caesar, who had argued with Jack earlier, trotted over to Alexi. His voice was pitched in such a way that it made a person's skin crawl as he asked, "Mr. Bloomsfield, how can I help you?"
"Where's the young student who's supposed to be seated here?" Alexi asked, a little panicked. "Where has he gone?"
Caesar's expression turned awkward. "Maybe he hasn't arrived yet? There was someone else sitting here earlier, but I assumed he was in the wrong seat, so I asked him to leave."
Alexi turned even more panicked. "How old was he? Did you force him to leave?"
Fear flashed across Caesar's face. "He's about the same age as I am. I thought he was just a regular student, so I..."
"How dare you do that?" Alexi's temper flared as he screamed at Caesar. "Where is he? Tell me right now. I'll bring him here." Content originally comes from finḑnovel.net
Caesar was scared out of his wits when he realized he might have made a huge mistake. He pointed at the direction Jack had walked off to earlier and stammered, "He went that way."
Alexi didn't have the patience to continue dealing with Caesar. His priority was to locate Jack as soon as possible.
Next to him, Clarice was shocked speechless.