How a Dying Woman Rewrote Her Epilogue

Elodie had just finished reviewing the document and switched off her phone.

Grady watched her, his expression a mix of emotions. Ever since he'd learned that Elodie was Mrs. Silverstein, old memories came flooding back-awkward ones, mostly, and a growing sense of sympathy for Sylvie. No wonder Elodie had always targeted Sylvie, always making things difficult for her.

"Ms. Fielding's latest paper just got published in a top journal," Grady said, seizing the chance to defend Sylvie. "Elodie, maybe you could learn a thing or two from her."

Sylvie's mind drifted back to when Elodie was still in New York, hopelessly lost during their academic discussions-like a student reading a foreign language.

Still, Sylvie kept her composure, chin lifted, and said nothing.

Elodie merely flicked her gaze toward Grady, but before she could reply, Alexander returned from chatting with a few acquaintances. He'd caught the tail end of the conversation and said, "No wonder Esmeralda once mentioned wanting a paternity test. You work so hard, but have you ever gotten a single word of praise from Ms. Fielding? Maybe she needs a refresher course on positive reinforcement."

Sylvie's brow furrowed.

Grady's face darkened. "Mr. Sterling, I was just giving Elodie some friendly advice. Is that so wrong?"

Sylvie added, "Mr. Sterling, I'd appreciate it if you didn't speculate about my professional relationship with Mr. Mercer."

Alexander dusted off his sleeve, feigning sudden realization. "Fair enough. After all, these days you're working for Elodie's 'husband.""

Sylvie's expression turned icy.

slipped quietly into his seat, seemingly oblivious to the

paid them no further attention. Alexander's comment had

she spotted Charlie arriving at the door and immediately remembered to go greet him. Standing up, she

steady herself, a hand appeared right

Jarrod, eyes still on his phone,

touch me" in front of everyone, and

didn't go unnoticed; several people in the room shot glances at Sylvie, some barely hiding their

lips pressed into a thin line, a chill

reflex; he calmly withdrew his hand and returned to his

when she greeted him with a polite, "Professor," his face relaxed a little. He looked around, hands tucked

her: "This

Elodie."

so openly, and the

cold scoff sounded

and Elodie. "Quite

was infamous for his bluntness; no one

the center of things. When's the

a clear

of course, knew better than to argue

But-