Chapter 452: Chapter 452

Chapter 452:

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Though she could offer guidance, she lacked the academic depth that instructors like Roderick could provide.

“But that’s why they have you, Roderick,” she said, her voice sincere.

Roderick’s expression tightened with regret.

“That’s not true, Ms. Clarke. Your abilities are exceptional.”

He wasn’t the only one who thought so; anyone could see it.

He didn’t want her talent to go unshared.

“A true teacher should be there to support and guide, but since I can’t commit to staying, I don’t want to take on a role without being fully present for the students. Do you understand?”

Allison’s voice was steady as she made her intentions clear, offering a promise. “I may not be able to be their teacher, but I’ll always be there if you need me.” No distance could sever her bond with these old friends.

Beside her, Kellan’s hand shook ever so slightly, causing the tea leaves in his cup to dip and float, mirroring the stirring emotions he kept concealed by lowering his gaze.

Hearing her decision, Roderick reluctantly yielded.

“Alright, I won’t push you. But remember,” he added with a look of disappointment, “The position of expert lecturer at the appraisal center is always open to you. The door is yours to walk through whenever you like.”

“Thank you, I’ll be back to visit when I can,” she said with a smile.

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She had another purpose for her visit today.

Casting a brief glance at the closed office door, Allison quietly asked, “By the way, have you found any leads on what I asked you to look for?”

A hint of expectation colored her voice.

Roderick paused, his brow furrowing. “Ms. Clarke, Mr. Lloyd is here as well, so…”

“It’s alright, he’s aware,” Allison assured him.

After a moment’s hesitation, Roderick reached into his desk drawer and retrieved a small box, placing it gently in her hands.

“I found something that might be relevant, but I wasn’t sure, so I held off on telling you.”

“This is a jade earring with a gold wrap I picked up from the black market,” Roderick explained. As Allison opened the box, she saw the earring lying snugly on a cushion of soft fabric.

The second her fingers brushed the edge of the box, she felt her grip tighten instinctively.

Roderick’s voice drifted over, hesitant yet hopeful. “The design seemed close to the unique snake motif you described, so I figured it was worth buying to show you. But… it’s incomplete. Without the missing piece, I can’t say for sure if it’s what you’ve been looking for.” His voice softened, laced with regret. “I even tried restoring it myself, hoping to recreate the missing section from the remaining details. But it didn’t come together the way I hoped.”

Allison took a deep, steadying breath, cutting him off before he could finish.

“This… This is the piece I’ve been searching for.” Her voice trembled, barely holding back the surge of emotion.

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