How a Dying Woman Rewrote Her Epilogue

Chapter 289

Other than the familiar scent of his cologne, Elodie caught the faintest trace of women's perfume clinging to the jacket.

Most likely, another woman had worn it before her, or at least brushed against it.

Her expression grew colder. Without a second thought, she shoved the jacket back into the crook of Jarrod's arm.

"Thanks, but I don't need it."

Her movements were crisp and decisive, not bothering to disguise her distance or rejection.

Jarrod didn't seem the least bit bothered. It was almost as if he'd anticipated Elodie's reaction all along. He draped the jacket back over his arm with an easy grace, unphased by her attitude.

Casually, he said, "The military's procurement tender-VistaLink Technologies is putting in a bid, aren't they?"

Elodie paused.

So Jarrod knew about that, too.

on. "I imagine VistaLink Technologies understands how fierce the competition will be this time. If you're

you suggesting, Mr. Silverstein?" Elodie cut in, her voice

faint smile tugging at his lips.

consider partnering up with Neural Intelligence. Your team has an edge in innovative tech development, while we'll have Nexus Analytics on board to ensure technical stability. We both get what we want.

Understanding dawned on Elodie.

suddenly come over to talk—or tried to drape his jacket over her shoulders in a show of concern. So, he wasn't just being friendly. He was here on business,

just a way for Neural Intelligence to seize their first big break by leveraging

strategy-Jarrod was right about that, and time was running short. Even if VistaLink Technologies wanted to find another partner, it was

had timed

Elodie didn't dwell on it. VistaLink Technologies wasn't hers alone to command; she had no intention of making unilateral decisions.

prototype room, Elodie

arrived, she found Jarrod and Sylvie nearby

nothing awkward had ever happened between them,

turned to Alexander and said earnestly, "I chatted with Dr. Charlie Sterling about grad school last time. It really solidified my decision to become his student—I'll do my best to get in. But right now, I'm focused on my thesis.

was warm and sincere,