Chapter 581

The plane trees of Hudson High School No.5 stood tall as ever, their dappled shadows dancing across the red brick walls like imprints of time. This century-old institution, founded during the early 20th century, had witnessed generations of students passing through its gates.

Evelyn Carter paused at the school entrance, gazing at the gilded nameplate with quiet reverence. One hundred and thirty years of history lent an air of gravitas to these hallowed grounds.

"Evelyn!"

Vivian Dempsey came bounding over, throwing an arm around her shoulders. "Finally! I've been waiting half an hour. That damn bus kept stopping and starting—I nearly got carsick."

"Why didn't you drive?"

"Gotta save on gas," Vivian winked. "Miss Liang's funding doesn't grow on trees. Oh, Principal Evans specifically requested you give the alumni speech as our star graduate."

Evelyn pressed her lips together in amusement. "He sent me a sixty-second voice memo last night, terrified I'd back out."

Vivian's expression suddenly dimmed. "If only I hadn't—"

"Stop." Evelyn pinched her lightly. "I'm perfectly happy now. Saving lives as a doctor beats fiddling with test tubes in some lab."

"But you were—"

"Viv," Evelyn turned toward the academic building, "look—the old locust tree is still there. Remember when you buried that time capsule beneath it during senior year?"

The diversion worked instantly. "Oh my god, yes! I wrote a letter to my future self about becoming this badass career woman..."

"Evelyn! Vivian!"

A robust male voice called from behind. They turned to see a sprightly middle-aged man approaching, his hairline slightly more receded than in their memories.

"Good afternoon, Principal Evans," Evelyn greeted politely.

The principal feigned offense. "Since when am I 'Principal'? 'Mr. Evans' still suits me fine."

Vivian grinned. "That hair dye looks natural, sir. Mrs. Evans has excellent taste."

"Cheeky as ever!" He raised a mock-threatening hand before addressing Evelyn. "Speech ready? These kids need proper role models—they've been getting restless lately."

Evelyn nodded. "Don't worry."

The centennial ceremony unfolded on the synthetic track field. A spring breeze carried the scent of fresh grass across the stands. When Evelyn stepped onto the podium, an immediate buzz rippled through the student section.

"Damn, this alum is smoking hot!"

"OB-GYN at Central Hospital—total brainiac!"

"Anyone know if she's taken?"

From the front row, Vivian spun around. "Single and available!"

Amid the laughter, Evelyn calmly accepted the microphone. Her crisp white blouse, jeans, and simple ponytail stood out refreshingly among the sea of suited alumni.

"Hello everyone. I'm Evelyn Carter, an OB-GYN at Central Hospital." She paused. "I won't feed you the usual 'study hard' platitudes today. Just one thought—life isn't a one-way street."

The crowd stilled.

"College entrance exams matter, but they're not the finish line. I've seen too many people stake everything on one test—acting like their lives are set after acing it, or shattered from failing." Her gaze swept across youthful faces. "Truth is, life's a marathon. What truly matters is finding your passion."

A lanky boy suddenly stood. "Dr. Carter! I wanna go pro in eSports!"

The audience erupted.

Evelyn nodded seriously. "Great ambition. But ask yourself—do you love the industry itself, or just playing games? If it's the former, start studying tournament rules and training regimens now. Not skipping class for internet cafes."

Thunderous applause followed.

Vivian recorded the moment, captioning her social media post:

[My girl Dr. Carter OWNING that stage!]

Nathan York instantly commented:

[Alex wants to know if he can apply as +1]

Vivian typed a frosty reply:

[Tell him to post his divorce papers first]