Reign's colleague, whom Lydia recognized from a few past encounters, approached. They were not particularly close but had exchanged polite nods in the past. Elaine, on the other hand, seemed to be more familiar with him. Without any formalities, she scoffed and said, “What does it matter who she is? Julian, your professor seems to have a very special attitude toward his students.”

The way she emphasized the words “very special” made it clear she wasn’t ...