How a Dying Woman Rewrote Her Epilogue

Chapter 287

Charlie looked over and waved Elodie over. "Come here. This is Eaton Aldridge- you've probably heard of him."

Of course Elodie recognized the man standing before her. She'd seen his face countless times in political briefings, international summits, and news about military affairs.

This was one of the country's top defense leaders.

No matter how calm and composed she tried to be, Elodie couldn't help but feel a flicker of surprise meeting someone of his stature.

She stepped forward and offered a polite, "Hello, I'm Elodie."

Eaton shook her hand, warm and relaxed, carrying none of the intimidating aura one might expect from someone in his position. "I know. Charlie's told me about you plenty of times. I finally get to meet the brilliant young lady he keeps mentioning."

Elodie glanced at Charlie.

He scowled, feigning gruffness. "Don't listen to him. This girl's got a rebellious streak a mile wide-I hardly ever bring her up."

Elodie could only smile wryly.

It was obvious Eaton and Charlie went way back. Both were always busy, so it was rare for them to actually sit down together like this.

"Have a seat, Elodie. Make yourself comfortable," Eaton said, his tone friendly and approving.

Elodie nodded quietly.

Eaton continued, "Your work on U.N2 has been a real breakthrough for our military technology. It's impressive to finally meet you in person-I didn't realize you were so young. You're living proof that science is the future."

Charlie took a sip of his drink before interjecting, "Don't let her get a big head over it."

Elodie let out a soft, helpless laugh.

Eaton ignored Charlie's teasing, his expression sincere. “I've read the two papers you published in the top aerospace journal a few years back. They're outstanding."

a prestigious journal-Elodie's reputation

meant it. To have talent like this in the country was something to be proud

couldn't help but ask, "Why did you stop pursuing the research after that?" Elodie smiled faintly. "I got married not

ever the straight-shooter, immediately added,

told Charlie that the divorce papers had already gone through; as

the time or place to get into the details of her

heart rarely followed logic-being exceptional in one area didn't guarantee happiness

moved on, steering the conversation toward the real reason for today's meeting. "You're a remarkable talent, Elodie. I sincerely hope you'll contribute your expertise to our national

bid for a military-sponsored project focused on urban security

projects demanded top-tier

aback, but answered quickly, "If there's a chance, I'd be

the military was no small feat. Competition would be fierce, drawing companies from

a call from VistaLink Technologies- something about a

kindly. "No worries. Work comes first. We'll

nodded with quiet

gave her a nod

Elodie stood and

out of the private dining room, she passed someone

paused, glancing in the direction

well-they'd met at

key figure at

on it and

him, “You're a bit

asked, "Who?

Elodie, Charlie had eyed him suspiciously. "Aren't you a fan of U.N2's lead developer,

an indignant look. "You sly fox. Why didn't you tell me it was her?

missed the meeting. He'd only come because Eaton had called for a dinner, and he happened