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.

fierce the competition will be this time. If you're not certain you can win, it could be a

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

her cool, distant expression, a faint smile tugging at his

we'll have Nexus Analytics on

Understanding dawned on Elodie.

to drape his jacket over her shoulders in a show of concern. So, he wasn't just being friendly. He was

but in reality, it was just a way for Neural Intelligence to seize their first big break by leveraging every available opportunity. Elodie didn't answer. She stepped past Jarrod and

joint bid was a solid, pragmatic strategy-Jarrod was right about that, and time was running short. Even if

timed his

Elodie didn't dwell on it. VistaLink Technologies wasn't hers alone to command; she had no intention of making unilateral decisions. This would have to be discussed as a

finished touring the prototype room, Elodie went to meet up with

she found Jarrod and Sylvie nearby

sides acted as if nothing awkward had ever happened between them, and the issue

second glance. She 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. Dr. Sterling, would you mind asking the professor to

was warm and sincere, clearly eager