"When are you leaving?" my grandfather, Mr. Nicolas Hawthorne, the formidable chairman of Hawthorne University and Hawthorne Enterprises, asks as he stands by his desk, his back straight, hands clasped behind him.
"Tomorrow morning," I reply, trying to match his level of formality.
"Good. Inform my secretary if you need anything more while you're there. As my grandson, you are expected to oversee the volunteering team and make sure everything runs smoothly. There will be eyes on us, and any misstep could reflect poorly on the university. Don't create any problems, and handle the situation properly."
"Yes, Grandfather," I respond, the weight of his words settling in my chest.
His eyes flicker for a moment, softening ever so slightly. "Also... be safe out there. And take care."
"I will, Grandpa."
There's a brief pause as we stand in the grand office, surrounded by decades of legacy, portraits of past Hawthornes staring down at us from the walls. My grandfather doesn't usually show his emotions, at least not in the typical way. He's strict, with an air of authority that commands attention—probably a result of the immense responsibility he's carried for years. But beneath that stern exterior, I know he cares. It's just... different.
The thing is, Hawthorne University has always been his first love. He built it from the ground up, sacrificed time with his own family to see it flourish. Sometimes, I wonder if the university means more to him than my father and I ever will.
"Remember," he continues, his voice taking on that familiar tone of authority, "protecting the university's reputation is paramount. This project is a reflection of Hawthorne, and by extension, of us. Keep that in mind."
"I understand," I say, my jaw tightening. I do understand, but it doesn't make it any easier.
He nods, satisfied with my answer. "I'm trusting you, Alex. Don't let me down."
The words sting more than they should. His trust feels more like a burden than a gift sometimes. But I've learned to carry it, to push aside whatever resentment I might feel. This is my family's legacy, after all.
As I turn to leave, I hesitate for a second, then glance back at him. "Grandpa... I know the university is important to you. But I'll make sure everything is fine, not just for the reputation. For the people who need help there too."
He looks up, caught off guard by my words. For a brief second, I see something in his eyes—pride, maybe? Or understanding? It vanishes as quickly as it appeared, replaced by his usual stoic expression.
"Good," he says. "That's exactly what I expect from you."
With that, I leave his office, my thoughts swirling. It's always been like this with him—duty, expectations, and the unspoken love he hides beneath layers of responsibility. I know he cares. But sometimes, I wish I didn't have to prove myself to him over and over again.
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to whoever is reading this thanks fr and sorry for these short updates will give you more soon ;) :)
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Scandal & Scholarship
RomanceWhat happens when dream University turns into a nightmare for you just because a man has sworn to destroy you just because its fun
