How a Dying Woman Rewrote Her Epilogue

Chapter 483

This whole public debacle-ironically enough-catapulted Elodie into the academic spotlight.

She understood exactly what Alexander meant. The more she thought about it, the more she realized he was right: what happened today had unexpectedly handed her a stepping stone.

Alexander let out a soft sigh. "You know, in our field-science, research, academia-no matter how brilliant someone is, most of us will never be known by the wider world. Names, reputations, even our greatest achievements-they usually pass unnoticed by the public. Most researchers live in quiet obscurity, their medals invisible to all but a handful. But today, you're the exception, Elodie. This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. In a way, you ought to thank Mr. Mercer for his...'foolishness.""

After all, the general public rarely pays attention to this kind of thing. Few scientists ever become household names or enjoy any real attention; most simply toil away in silence.

But today, Elodie had faced harsh public questioning-then, in a dramatic turn, received a resounding endorsement from Professor Waldron. The whiplash of disgrace and vindication had made her the talk of the university. People would remember her name now; her place in the academic community was secure, and those who truly understood what happened would only grow to respect her more deeply.

Her abilities and credentials were plain for all to see. No one would dare question them again.

How could that not be a good thing?

Yet, Elodie felt a swirl of complicated emotions—she couldn't quite put a name to what she was feeling.

her warmly. "Ms. Thorne, thank you so much for coming to speak with our students today. In a

Elodie agreed without hesitation.

some political stature, and to have earned his recognition was an honor. The group photo, she knew, would mark a significant

she replied politely, her composure unshaken by pride or

be a large group photo soon, and smaller ones for those who

students and professors. Sylvie clenched her fists unconsciously, snapping

a fleeting instant, it felt as if she'd never even been part of

and let things slip

get her research noticed by

appeared beside her. "Ms. Fielding, would you like to meet some

even if his earlier words had left her embarrassed. Whatever the past,

"Yes, let's," she replied.

with him, especially since he hadn't managed to smooth things over for

the editors whom Grady had

her goal. She greeted them with careful courtesy. "Hello, would it be possible for