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.

distinguished faculty members. He greeted her warmly. "Ms. Thorne, thank you so much for coming to speak with our students today. In

Elodie agreed without hesitation.

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

she replied politely, her composure unshaken by pride

photo soon, and smaller

was at that moment Sylvie caught sight of Elodie, surrounded by students and professors. Sylvie clenched her fists unconsciously, snapping out of

it felt as if she'd never even been part of

things

more than ever, she needed to get her research noticed by these influential

appeared beside her. "Ms. Fielding, would you

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

"Yes, let's," she replied.

relieved; he'd feared she might be angry with him, especially

approached the editors whom

She greeted them with careful courtesy. "Hello, would it