Ariel had just finished reviewing her speech notes and turned off her phone.
Frederick finally noticed her, his expression conflicted. Ever since learning that Ariel was Jayson’s wife, he’d fe awkward about their past interactions. At the same time, he sympathized with Nancy. It explained why Ariel always clashed with her and made things difficult.
“Ms. Stanton’s research paper was of exceptional quality and has already been published. Ariel, you should try to learn from her,” Frederick said pointedly, clearly trying to Help Nancy get back at Ariel.
Nancy recalled how lost Ariel had seemed when reviewing the paper back in Nacsall. Still, she maintained her graceful posture and remained silent.
Ariel gave Frederick a sidelong glance. But before she could say anything, Chad had returned after mingling with a few acquaintances.
Upon hearing Frederick’s remark, Chad quipped, “No wonder Jan mentioned wanting a DNA test with you. You’ve worked so hard, but I’ve rarely heard Ms. Stanton praise you, Mr. Swanson. I guess it takes both carrots and sticks to train someone properly, huh?”
Nancy’s brows knitted together.
Frederick’s expression hardened. “Mr. Chad, I was simply giving Ariel some advice. Is it wrong to encourage her to put more effort into her studies?”
Nancy frowned deeply. “Mr. Chad, please refrain from making baseless accusations about my relationship with Mr. Swanson.”
Chad casually brushed off his sleeve and replied, as if the thought had just occurred to him, “Fair enough. After all, the person you’re involved with is Ari’s husband.”
Nancy’s face turned grim.
Jayson returned to his seat just as Chad finished speaking. He sat down, appearing as though he hadn’t heard a word.
Ariel ignored the tension. Chad’s remarks had effectively silenced Nancy and Frederick. As she turned her head, Ariel spotted Carlos entering the hall. She immediately stood to greet him.
However, her heels were slightly too high, and she stumbled as she tried to rise. Instinctively, she reached for the top rail of her chair for support.
Just then, someone reached out and caught her wrist, helping her steady herself.
Ariel turned and saw Jayson, still looking at his phone. Then he glanced at her
She frowned slightly but held back from telling him to let go; there were too many people around. Instead, she quickly pulled her hand away.
Several onlookers witnessed the moment and couldn’t help but glance at Nancy with sympathetic expressions.
Nancy’s lips pressed into a thin line, her eyes flashing coldly.
It seemed Jayson had acted reflexively. He calmly withdrew his hand.
Carlos had a frigid look until Ariel got there. After she politely greeted him with “Mr. Carlos,” his expression softened noticeably.
With his hands on his back, Carlos looked at the people around him. “She is my student, Ariel Walker.”
There were only a handful of students whom Carlos would bother to properly introduce. The people around him started greeting Ariel right away.
Suddenly, a loud snort echoed from behind.
Ariel looked up and saw Cedric striding toward them. He directed his gaze at Carlos and Ariel. “Showing off your prized student again?”
That was typical of Cedric–blunt and unfiltered. He never gave anyone special treatment. He then glanced at Ariel. “You’ve been in the spotlight a lot lately. Seems like you’re involved in every other incident. Are you even focusing on your research?”
It sounded like a criticism.
Ariel couldn’t talk back to a respected expert like Cedric. But…
“Why are you lecturing her when I haven’t said a word?” Carlos shot Cedric a sidelong glance. The two had always been like oil and water. Neither held back when expressing their opinions. “You should mind your own business.”
It was clear Carlos was defending Ariel.
Cedric didn’t seem offended. He snorted and retorted, “Looks like you’ve abandoned your principles for her too.”
Nancy arrived just in time to hear Cedric’s sharp remarks. Her expression remained composed, but inwardly, she was amused. She assumed Ariel had only earned Carlos‘ support because of her connection to Chad. To experts like Cedric, Ariel was clearly insignificant. His tone made that obvious.
“Mr. Warbrooke, you’re here,” Nancy greeted Cedric warmly.
He turned to her and gave a slight nod before heading inside.
Nancy curled her lips and quickly followed him.
The nearby guests began whispering and speculating. Nancy seemed to have a friendly rapport with Cedric.
They were both considered rising stars in the industry. Everyone knew Ariel was Carlos‘ student. But could Nancy be Cedric’s?
