chapter1048

Carson could see right through it. The Gibson family wouldn't show up with such an extravagant gift unless they wanted something in return. But he already had a favorite student, and he wasn't interested in taking on anyone new.

"Miss Gibson, your gift is truly generous. Thank you for your respect. But to be honest, I've already accepted my last apprentice. I really can't take on anyone else right now. Still, you have real talent and passion. If you ever have questions about Go, you're always welcome to come and ask me."

Everyone in the room was stunned. Carson already had a final disciple? How had no one heard about this? Or was he just saying that to politely turn her down?

A few minutes ago, Lucinda had been fuming that Rosie beat her to it. She hadn't expected Carson to refuse so directly. Rosie had gotten so full of herself lately, flaunting her uncle's high rank. Now she'd been put in her place, finally.

Lucinda was a little disappointed, though. She'd been hoping to become Carson's student just to get one up on Lydia. Oh well. If he'd already chosen someone, that was fine. As long as it wasn't Lydia, Lucinda didn't really care.

Rosie, on the other hand, clearly didn't believe him. "So you've already taken a student, Carson? I don't think I've ever heard about that. Who's the lucky person that got to be your final disciple?

Everyone else was thinking the same thing.

Carson just laughed. "No, I'm the lucky one. I found a truly brilliant student. When she gets here, I'll introduce her to everyone."

Now the room was buzzing. So Carson actually had a student? And he was so proud of her he said he was the lucky one? Just how talented was this girl to get that kind of praise?

Lucinda stepped up with her own carefully chosen present. "Carson, wishing you health and happiness for years to come.

She handed him a set of Go stones, carved from the finest stone. They were smooth and cool to the touch the white ones like pure cream and the black ones a deep, glossy darb

green. Elegant and classy, exactly what Carson would appreciate.

He was clearly pleased. He smiled, nodding. "Miss Norwood, you're very thoughtful." Then he turned to- Cameron and Kylie. Mr. Norwood, Mrs. Norwood, you're so lucky. Your daughters are so outstanding."

That caught people off guard. As far as everyone knew, Cameron and Kylie only had one daughter, Lucinda. Why did Carson say daughters? Maybe he'd just mixed up their sons and daughters.

Cameron and Kylie exchanged a surprised look. Did he know something? But that was impossible. Hardly anyone knew Lydia was their daughter.

Lucinda thought it was odd too, but she didn't dwell on it. She smiled and said, "I'm glad you like it. I've studied Go a bit myself. I hope I can come to you for advice sometimes."

Carson chuckled. "Of course. You're welcome any time."

Off in the corner, Juna nudged Lydia. "Hey, everyone's giving their birthday wishes. Shouldn't we join in?"

Lincoln shook his head. "It's packed over there. Why get caught in that crowd? We can go when things calm down."

He turned to Lydia, grinning. "Lydia, is there anything else you want to taste?"

The birthday wishes were almost

over, and Carson still hadn't spotted

his favorite student. He kept

glancing around, stretching his neck to see over the crowd, but there

were just too many people.

Others started to notice him searching. Earlier he'd hinted his student would be

here. Was he looking for her now?