How a Dying Woman Rewrote Her Epilogue

Chapter 369

In this crowd, some people seemed to think every problem could be solved with petty scheming.

She couldn't agree less.

Now that Neural Intelligence had landed TerraCore Technologies as a partner, Elodie's antagonism struck her as even more childish and laughable.

The institute's open house had drawn in a mix of students from Verdant University, representatives from other firms-and even a few CEOs who, not long ago, had shown up at Selma's art exhibition just to save face with Jarrod. They all made a point of coming over to exchange pleasantries, working the room with practiced ease.

Several events were scheduled across the grounds that day.

Before long, Charlie arrived, striding across the lawn with a distinguished man in his forties. Their presence seemed to infuse the gathering with fresh energy.

Elodie recognized the man beside the academic: Professor Abbott, the very first doctoral student the institute's founder had ever mentored. With his wire-rimmed glasses and gentle composure, Abbott exuded quiet sophistication.

Catching sight of him, Sylvie greeted Abbott with polite warmth. "Professor."

nodded in acknowledgment. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed Elodie. He paused briefly, then offered her

furrowed ever so slightly

and murmured, "Don't let it bother you. Elodie is Mr. Sterling's student now-of course Professor Abbott would greet her. Without the academic's endorsement, she wouldn't be anybody

lips curving into a wry smile.

hadn't taken it to heart, Grady

little closer and lowering her voice until only he could hear. "Jarrod, I'm still a bit nervous about seeing

soothing. "You'll be fine. There's nothing

Sylvie managed a small, grateful

brief the event coordinators about which areas would be open

guest who'd overheard Sylvie call Abbott "Professor" couldn't help but interject, surprise in their tone. "I never quite understood it-why

that Sylvie's original goal

who ended up as Mr.

their eyes drifting toward Elodie.