"Good afternoon, Principal."
Su Enxi's slightly lazy voice came through the receiver, like silk warmed by the afternoon sun, gently brushing against his ears.
There was always a distinctive lilt to her voice, a trace of elusive seduction seeping through its languidness. Her final syllables dragged out slightly, as though coated in honey, inviting wild imaginings.
Those unfamiliar with her would likely picture this: a young, powerful lady reclining against a soft sofa, perhaps holding a slender cigarette between her fingertips or idly turning a crystal-clear wineglass. Her features were blurred by the afternoon glow, leaving only her voice clear—casually charming and distant.
After all, that voice alone was enough to set one's imagination wandering.
Those who knew her, however, would likely picture something entirely different: a messy-haired college girl in loose loungewear, curled up on a sofa piled with snack wrappers. One could not help wondering how many days it had been since she last went outside, or whether she had quietly gained a few more pounds around her waist.
There was not the slightest trace of sleepiness in Angers's voice, only his usual steadiness. "I hope you have a good enough reason, Madam Trustee. For an old man over one hundred and thirty, a good night's sleep is more precious than fine Bordeaux."
A light laugh came from the other end of the line, accompanied by faint chewing sounds, as though the other person were enjoying a snack.
"Oh, sorry, sorry. I forgot about the time difference. The sunlight here is so bright I can barely keep my eyes open."
Angers's knuckles lightly tapped the mahogany bedside table unconsciously, producing a steady rhythm.
"So, what matter could be worth disturbing an old man's pleasant dream on such a bright afternoon?"
"A small matter." Su Enxi's tone was casual,