The King's Heiress

3: Reputable Enough

Kei’s POV

I entered the classroom with my best friend, Gail Wright. In just a few days, we would be graduating. Gail had decided to take an internship at a company to gain experience before taking over her family’s business. In many ways, we were similar—not just because our names sounded alike. We were both only children, and our fathers each owned small businesses that we were expected to inherit one day. That’s why we chose this course.

But unlike Gail, I planned to continue my studies. After finishing this two-year course, I wanted to pursue architecture to build a solid foundation for my future. I had never been in a relationship, nor had I ever been interested in one. My focus was on my education. Growing up as the daughter of a real estate and architecture firm owner, I knew I had to learn as much as I could. My goal was to be certified in my chosen profession, and I wasn’t about to let anything distract me.

A minute later, our professor entered and announced that we would have a guest lecturer. I had no idea who he was, what he did, or how good he was at his job. Growing up in a small village with my grandmother, I wasn’t familiar with many people in the industry. But since he was here, I figured he must be important.

I was busy pulling out my study materials, barely paying attention as he introduced himself. All I could register was a deep, calm male voice. I tried to process what he was saying, but I remained lost in thought.

He started his lecture, and for once, the class was silent. There was no usual whispering, meaning everyone was listening intently. When he finished, he asked if anyone had questions.

This was my chance.

I had a question—one not covered in his lecture but something I needed to know. Still jotting down notes and making my own remarks, I raised my hand without hesitation. I was so focused on my notes that I didn’t realize he had chosen me until Gail nudged me with her elbow.

I finally looked up and saw his hand pointing in my direction. His long, bony index finger caught my attention first. I glanced around, making sure he really meant me, before finally looking up at his face.

And then, I froze.

He was the most handsome man I had ever seen. No—he was beyond that. But strangely, I felt no romantic interest, just admiration for his appearance.

I shook my head, pushing the thought away and refocusing.

Now, he was staring at me. His eyes held something I couldn’t quite read.

Suddenly, my heartbeat raced, almost as if it wanted to escape my chest. I tried to stay calm.

What the hell is he thinking with that indecent stare? I thought to myself, feeling his gaze pierce right through me.

I had had enough. Waving my hand in front of his face, I snapped him out of it. The class erupted into laughter and teasing.

“Shameless people with indecent minds,” I muttered, rolling my eyes.

He quickly regained his composure and smiled warmly. It wasn’t just any smile—it was the kind that could reach deep into your soul. I felt my cheeks heat up.

Shaking off my flustered state, I repeated my question, ignoring the class’s continued whispers. He looked around before giving the lamest excuse I had ever heard.

“Acquaintance, my ass. I’ve seen this scene play out more times than I can count,” I muttered, rolling my eyes again.

Eventually, the class quieted down, and he refocused on me.

“I beg your pardon, miss?” he asked.

“Kei Miller,” I said, a little irritated now. “And my question is—”

I made sure to speak clearly so everyone could hear. He answered in the simplest way possible, as if explaining to a child.

Did he think I was stupid?

Still, I took down his words carefully, making sure I understood everything.

The lecture ended, and the bell rang. I packed my things, smiling as I prepared for the next class.

Before he left, I suddenly felt a chill run through me. Looking up, I found him staring straight into my eyes.

“Goodbye,” his gaze seemed to say before he turned to address the class and walked out.

The moment he left, the room exploded with gossip. Even Gail wasn’t an exception—she tugged at my arm, her jaw practically on the floor as she continued staring at the door he had exited through.

“Was she like this the whole time?” I wondered. I had been so focused, I hadn’t even noticed.

“Did you see him?!” she shrieked. “Do you know who he is?!”