There was no hint of pretense in Alexander’s expression; he asked his question as if it had simply followed from the conversation.

Sylvie frowned slightly, masking her reaction. She couldn’t understand why Alexander always seemed so protective of Elodie, unwilling to hear even the smallest criticism of her. Now, he’d gone so far as to turn the criticism back on her and Jarrod.

What ulterior motives?

Naylor glanced at the pair-Sylvie and Jarrod seemed so close, it was obvious they were headed for marriage.

Alexander’s tone was perfectly genuine. “Mr. Silverstein, have you two set a date yet? I imagine your family must be quite pleased with Ms. Fielding?”

Elodie stayed silent.

She knew exactly what Alexander was doing: he couldn’t stand to see her mistreated and was determined to return the favor. After all, Henrietta only acknowledged her as Jarrod’s wife now; otherwise, Jarrod would never have insisted on such a draconian divorce agreement.

Alexander feigned surprise. “You haven’t introduced her to your family yet? What’s the holdup?”

Even Naylor looked surprised. In his eyes, Sylvie was outstanding, and their relationship seemed stable-surely meeting the parents and making things official was only a matter of time.

Sylvie glanced up at Jarrod, lips pressed together, saying nothing.

Jarrod’s face barely changed; he gave a small, polite smile. “That’s a private matter, but thank you for your concern, Mr. Sterling.”

He clearly had no intention of elaborating.

Alexander’s pointed question seemed to bounce right off him-Jarrod was utterly unflappable.

Only then did Alexander’s smile fade a little. Of course he could tell: Jarrod was still protecting Sylvie’s reputation, making sure no one could accuse her of being the ‘other woman.’

Elodie had no interest in the topic. She knew Jarrod would eventually introduce Sylvie to the Silversteins. That was his choice, and none of her concern.

She turned to Alexander. “You two go ahead-I’m heading up to my room.”

Everyone had already exchanged greetings. It was their first day in Goldspire, just time for introductions; the real work and site visits would begin in the following days.

Elodie left first, not bothering with the rest of the reception.

Haywood emerged from the crowd, hoping to catch up with Elodie for another conversation, but she was already gone. He felt a pang of disappointment. He’d had the sense that Elodie might share some valuable technical insights with him

Back in her room, Elodie didn’t waste any time. She and Alexander would be in Goldspire for three days, so she’d brought along a stack of books to work through in her downtime.

She had no idea when the gathering downstairs wrapped up.

The next morning, the research facility sent vehicles to pick everyone up.

Elodie rode with Alexander. As they stepped out of the car, she spotted Jarrod getting out of another vehicle. He opened the door for Sylvie with effortless chivalry. Sylvie stepped out, laughing at something he said, and Jarrod bent down to listen as she whispered in his ear.

Elodie kept her gaze straight ahead and followed the facility director inside.

The center showcased the latest in drone technology, autonomous vehicles, and military aircraft—there were experts on hand to explain everything, and visitors could get up close, even participate in live demonstrations and flight tests. Charlie, the lead engineer, guided the main group toward the centerpiece of this year’s research: a military transport plane.

Sylvie was clearly familiar with this type of aircraft. When Charlie hit the key technical points and the engineers launched into a lively debate, she confidently highlighted the main issues, drawing the attention of engineers from several companies.

Charlie gave Sylvie another look; it was obvious she was no amateur. She had a solid technical foundation.

But there’s always someone more accomplished.

Five years ago, Elodie had already been working at the cutting edge of this field. Compared to her, Sylvie still had a long way to go.

Still, many engineers were eager to talk to Sylvie, gathering around to discuss ideas.

Several looked genuinely impressed. “No surprise, really-coming from the Pinecrest Institute of Technology, Ms. Fielding is bound for great things.”

Someone else grinned. “Mr. Silverstein’s girlfriend-she must make the rest of us look bad!”

Sylvie flushed with embarrassment, glancing at Jarrod with a gentle smile. Alexander couldn’t help getting goosebumps at the sight. Was this a research trip, or a couples’ showcase?

Elodie never lifted her head, not sparing them a single glance. She took notes, listening intently, occasionally leaning in to study the aircraft’s data up close.

She quickly analyzed the available figures, jotting down a new approach in her notebook.

Haywood arrived just in time to catch a glimpse of her notes.

Impressive seriously impressive.

“Ms. Thorne, have you come up with something new?” Haywood had taken a liking to Elodie’s low-key, focused style. Even the brief conversation they’d had in the elevator yesterday had taken him by surprise.