Gray’s happy days were soon over.

One more week after, and he knew he couldn’t refuse any invitation sent his way. Alistair, using Steven, had invited him 2 times already to join in one of his visits during the last 2 weeks.

He didn’t want to make it seem that he was intentionally avoiding it. After talking to the lawyer to make sure it would be fine, he agreed to the 3rd invitation.

That’s why right now, Gray found himself standing in front of the large gates of Westbridge College.

It was a small university that had just a few thousand students. The university looked noticeably newer since it was just established a few decades ago.

On top of the university’s gate, a large banner was hanging across the entrance that read: Welcome, Mayor Alistair!

Gray didn’t even need to ask about it as he already knew why such a thing was in there.

During the meeting weeks ago, one of the directors proudly mentioned how Alistair had donated to his school multiple times. With Alistair’s help, they renovated their buildings and even funded scholarships.

That was why the students and the administration in this school liked Alistair. Because he was basically funding a portion of their tuition and salary.

The moment Gray stepped out from the car that Daniel was driving, flashes and the sound of camera shutters immediately greeted him.

There were a lot of media vans on the side and also reporters who were on standby.

"Sir Adams! Over here!"

"Sir, are you here to support the Mayor’s educational campaign?"

Gray’s expression changed smoothly into a polite smile. He gave the people a small wave before facing the person who asked him that question.

"Hello, good afternoon," he greeted the camera lightly. "We’re all here to support the students."

As soon as he answered those questions, more microphones were immediately raised toward him. Everyone was hoping that their own questions would be answered.

"Sir Adams, how have you been these past few weeks? We haven’t seen you in the Mayor’s recent visits."

Gray kept the smile on his face.

"I’ve been doing well," he answered calmly. "I’m just handling some internal matters in my own business. You know how busy things get during the transition of next quarter."

"So there’s no issue between you and Mayor Alistair?" another reporter quickly asked. "Some people online noticed your absence for the last few weeks."

Gray let out a small chuckle, as if the thought itself was amusing to him.

"There’s no issue at all," he replied smoothly. "The Mayor and I work closely together, but of course were still in different fields. Sometimes our schedules simply don’t align."

"Will you be joining more of his public appearances from now on?"

"If my schedule allows it," Gray said politely. "But today is about the students and the future of education. I think that’s what we should focus on."

He redirected every question effortlessly.

The reporters exchanged glances, but none of them could pull anything controversial from his answers because they were simply neutral and believable.

When no more questions went to his way, Gray simply gave them another small wave.

"Excuse me."

Without waiting for more questions, Gray turned and walked toward the entrance gates. Security personnel quickly went to his aid and gently stepped in to create space between him and the media.

The security staff guided him through the gates while the cameras continued snapping photos of him as he walked away. Gray could only maintain his composed expression as he walked inside.

Then, as soon as he entered the main building, a staff member immediately approached him.

"Sir Gray, this way please. The principal is waiting."

Grat nodded and followed the man. The man led him down a hallway lined with framed photos of past graduates and award ceremonies. At the end of it was the principal’s office.

The door opened before he could even knock.

"Sir Gray!" the principal greeted him warmly. The man looked overly enthusiastic.

"Good afternoon." Gray accepted the handshake that was offered to him.

"It’s such an honor to have you here," the principal continued, smiling widely. "The director told me about your arrival. The Mayor will also be arriving shortly."

"I see." Gray nodded.

"Do you want to stay here for the meantime, or do you want to meet the students already? They’re already gathered at the auditorium." The principal smiled warmly at him.

"I’ll just wait for Alistair. Thank you."

"Alright, Sir," the principal quickly nodded and led Gray inside to sit.

Gray sat on the couch inside the principal’s office. He wanted to take a moment of silence, but the principal was insistent on making small talk with him.

"You know, Sir, the students are very excited today," the principal said with a proud smile on his face. "Many of them are scholars under the Mayor’s program."

"Yeah, I learned of that," Gray nodded politely.

The principal chuckled a little.

Their conversation continued on for 15 more minutes before they heard a small commotion from the hallway.

With this, the principal quickly stood up straight. He looked visibly excited and nervous at the same time.

"He’s here," Just as the man said those words, the door opened once again.

In there, Alistair appeared. He was dressed formally, and even when they were just in closed doors, he was already smiling widely. Behind him was Steven, who was holding a tablet and two other staff members who were part of his campaign team.

"Mayor Alistair!" the principal hurried forward, almost bowing slightly as he extended both of his hands. "Welcome, welcome!"

Alistair shook his hand firmly.

"Thank you for having me," he said smoothly. "It’s always a pleasure to be back here."

"Of course, Mayor. How can we even forget you?" The principal exclaimed out loud.

Behind their backs, Gray slowly stood up from his seat. A small smile appeared on his lips as he greeted Alistair, too.

"Mayor..."

Alistair’s eyes quickly moved to him. Gray was expecting Alistair to greet him cheerfully as before. However...

"Hello, Gray," He was greeted by a cold and almost formal tone.