Elodie had just stepped out the door when she ran straight into the tail end of a conversation.

Had she just stumbled onto Sylvie’s “proposal” scene?

The last time—on Jarrod’s birthday—it had ended in disaster. Now, without any preamble or subtlety, Sylvie seemed to be taking a far bolder approach.

There weren’t many people in this corridor, so it was impossible to avoid passing them. Elodie would have given anything not to witness a moment like this. Still, dodging them would only make things more awkward.

She glanced over.

Jarrod saw her and looked up, his gaze meeting hers.

Of course, Sylvie had noticed Elodie come out. Turning her head, she shot Elodie

a look filled with icy sarcasm.

“Ms. Thorne, why don’t you give us a little privacy?” Sylvie’s voice was cold, almost a dare.

The words dripped with warning, challenge, and mockery—a clear sign she had no intention of backing down.

Asking the wife to step aside for the mistress’s proposal-now that was a first.

Jarrod shot Sylvie a cool, sidelong glance.

Since she’d spoken, Elodie finally looked at her, realizing that Sylvie had changed -her attitude, her entire way of doing things was different now.

Elodie’s voice was calm, almost bored. “With Ms. Fielding’s sense of decency, do you really need anyone to leave the room?”

She didn’t bother responding to Sylvie’s deepening scowl, just turned and walked away.

She hadn’t paid the “proposal” any mind at all. Like a stranger passing through, Elodie left without a second glance.

Whatever happened between them was their business. She had no desire to eavesdrop.

As for Jarrod’s answer-she neither knew nor cared.

She was only out here to meet Esmeralda.

Back in their suite, as she and Esmeralda returned to their room, Elodie checked her phone and saw a message from Watts: [I’ve arrived at the hotel today. Want to have dinner together later?]

She thought about it for a moment, then replied: [I’m afraid I don’t have time tonight. Let’s do it another day.]

Esmeralda noticed her message and grinned. “Still not giving Mr. Aldridge a chance, huh?”

She knew Elodie had turned down Watts. “He’s a genius-of course he’d have a spot on the team. But with his management position at Eldrion Global, joining the ‘national team’ would be a huge stretch timewise. Honestly, I think he’s only here because of you.”

If he really made the cut, wouldn’t that mean even more chances to see each other?

Esmeralda smirked. “He’s definitely got an agenda.”

Elodie just smiled and didn’t answer.

The whole cruise thing still bothered her; it was strange, and she was grateful that Watts was, at least, a gentleman. Nothing had happened that night-after all, Esmeralda had been sleeping in her room

The next morning, Elodie was in good spirits.

She took her medication before Esmeralda even woke up.

When they arrived at the stadium, Elodie spotted plenty of familiar faces in the stands.

Maurice was chatting with Joseph Naylor Whitaker and a few others.

This competition was not only a talent showcase but also a prime opportunity for major companies to scout for new hires.

Several big tech firms were present.

Elodie recognized quite a few industry heavyweights. Getting so many top minds under one roof at a public event was a rare feat.

As she approached the inner area, Elodie spotted Klein Whitaker and Waldron.

Klein waved, smiling. “Elodie, today’s

In

your big moment-time to show them what you can do.” He lowered his voice, conspiratorial. “Some high-level executives will be here today-it’s still under wraps. After it’s over, you should introduce yourself, talk about what projects you’d like to pursue.”

Elodie felt a flutter of nerves but nodded. “Okay. Got it.”

Waldron gave her a critical look. “I’m curious to see if you’ve lost your edge over

the years—or if Charlie Sterling has made a mistake about you.”

Elodie could only sigh inwardly.

Klein shot Waldron a puzzled glance. “Mr. Ferguson, you know exactly who Elodie is…”

Everyone knew Waldron was aware she was the lead developer of U.N2-so why the sharp tongue?

“Come on. Don’t waste your time with people who aren’t worth it.” Charlie had walked over, giving Waldron a frosty look before addressing Elodie.

She nodded obediently and followed.

Waldron, watching this, gave a cold huff and turned away to take his seat.

Klein just shook his head at the spectacle.

Still at it after all these years. Will they ever stop bickering?

Watts made a special trip over to say hello to Elodie. “Nervous?”

She shook her head. “I’m good.”

Watts glanced over at the judges’ table. “You know Mr. Ferguson well?” He’d just seen her talking with

Waldron. Very few people could get Mr. Ferguson’s attention.