Chapter 591
Chapter 591:
Their first stop? The library at Eighfast Design Academy—a place known for its vast collection of reference books. Standing before the imposing entrance, Tessa paused.
“Yelena, did you know this was actually my top-choice school when I was applying for college? Unfortunately, things didn’t work out, and I didn’t get in,” she said, her voice tinged with a wistful smile. For a moment, regret flickered in Tessa’s eyes, though she quickly exhaled and brightened. “But hey, now I get to be here, even if it’s only for a tour. At least it feels like I’ve fulfilled a little dream.” With that, she gave a small shrug and walked inside. But Yelena couldn’t shake the feeling that Tessa’s heart still carried a quiet ache beneath the smile.
“Yelena p>
A friendly voice sliced through her thoughts. A woman, dressed like a faculty member, waved at Yelena and hurried over. She winked, nudging Yelena conspiratorially. “What’s this? Getting interested in our academy? Thinking about becoming a lecturer p>
The woman was Lori Cooper, someone Yelena had first met during her time abroad. Back then, if Lori hadn’t accidentally discovered Yelena’s true identity, she never would have guessed that the dazzling, intuitive designer she admired so much was none other than Yelena.
When Lori returned from overseas and resumed teaching at the academy, she’d asked Yelena to join as a lecturer more than once. Each time, Yelena politely declined.
“I’m not planning on teaching,” Yelena said with a small shrug.
Lori merely smiled, having expected that response. She pressed on undeterred. “No need for anything long-term. Just drop by whenever you like—share some of your experiences with my students p>
“You really think so highly of me?” Yelena asked, raising an eyebrow.
Rolling her eyes playfully, Lori waved a hand in front of Yelena’s face. “You’re kidding, right? Or maybe you’re not fully awake?” She feigned a dramatic sigh. “Are you seriously unaware of how amazing you are p>
Yelena had racked up countless accolades abroad—some of her designs even commissioned by members of a royal family.
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If it were anyone else, Lori might’ve assumed they were feigning modesty. But Yelena? She’d always lived life on her own terms, never really chasing the spotlight.
“Let’s head to my office. Coffee’s on me,” Lori said, smiling eagerly.
“Later,” Yelena replied, nodding toward Tessa. “I need to drop by the library first and help my colleague find a few books p>
Only then did Lori notice the young woman standing nearby. Tessa looked starstruck, so much so that she practically stumbled over her words. “H-hello, Miss Cooper. Could… could I have your autograph p>
“Oh? You know who I am?” Lori asked, arching a curious eyebrow.
Tessa nodded excitedly. “Of course! You’ve won so many awards abroad. You’re one of my idols p>
Lori chuckled, her interest clearly piqued. “One of, huh? So, who else do you idolize p>
Without hesitation, Tessa’s eyes sparkled. “Cocia—she’s my absolute goddess!” She spoke with such fervor that she didn’t even glance at the two women before her, instead gazing off as if picturing the celebrated designer in her mind.
Lori caught on immediately and threw Yelena a knowing look.
It appeared Tessa had no idea that Yelena was, in fact, her idol Cocia.
Noticing Lori’s look, Yelena merely arched a brow back at her.
A mischievous smile tugged at Lori’s lips as she leaned closer. “I think I know what’s going on… You owe me dinner p>
“Deal,” Yelena replied without hesitation.
Lori clicked her tongue in mock reproach, assuming Yelena had accepted so readily because she’d gotten caught in a secret.
In truth, Yelena was simply glad to have an excuse to meet up with an old friend. She and Tessa made their way to the library, its design section vast and filled with an impressive array of books.