Alexander couldn’t hide the shift in his expression as he took in the situation.

He’d assumed Jarrod brought Sylvie along just to consult on some technical matters, at most-never imagining Jarrod had his sights set on the old professor’s coveted graduate slot.

He instinctively glanced at Elodie.

That spot had always been reserved for her.

Yet here was Jarrod, ever resourceful, swooping in at the last minute to snatch it away.

Elodie had already forced herself to calm down, her eyes cool and steady as she regarded the pair before her.

With a subtle tug on Alexander’s sleeve, she signaled for him to keep his composure.

Sylvie glanced up at Jarrod’s profile, then turned to address Professor Charlie Sterling with earnestness. “I know the admissions policies back home are different, but I’ve studied extensively at the Pinecrest Institute of Technology and have solid project experience. You’re a pioneer in the field, and my dream is to use technology for the greater good. I hope you’ll consider me.”

Though she’d done advanced research abroad, Professor Sterling was a giant in her home country. If he took her on, the prestige would far surpass anything she had now.

Charlie regarded Sylvie thoughtfully.

Of course he recognized the young woman-because of her, the Sterling Research Center had just received a $20 million grant from The Silverstein Group.

But-

His gaze shifted to Jarrod, a flicker of something complicated passing through his eyes.

“Ms. Fielding, is it?” Charlie’s tone remained unchanged, his severe expression betraying nothing, his words even bordering on caustic. “Every year, the best and brightest line up for a shot at my graduate program. Exceptional talent and relentless work ethic are just the bare minimum to get through the door.”

“If you want to be my student, Ms. Fielding, which of your qualities do you believe is truly flawless?”

It sounded like a routine question, but it made Sylvie’s expression tighten, a hint of confusion crossing her face.

She knew Professor Sterling was well aware of her academic background and the projects she’d participated in at Verdania. Why, then, was he being so exacting?

Alexander couldn’t help the hint of a smile tugging at his lips.

That was just like the old man-making it clear that knowing the right people wouldn’t earn anyone a shortcut.

He glanced down at Elodie, raising an eyebrow.

Elodie caught Alexander’s glimmer of schadenfreude and shook her head, amused by his childishness.

Nearby, Naylor had just finished exchanging pleasantries when he overheard Sylvie’s request-and caught Elodie’s little smile in Alexander’s direction.

He frowned instantly.

What right did Elodie have to mock Sylvie? If Sylvie wanted, she could ace the entrance exam and take that spot. But Elodie? She had nothing to offer-what business did she have acting superior?

Sylvie quickly regained her composure, her tone still sincere. “I understand. I just hope you’ll give me an interview. I’ll do my best to impress you.”

Charlie clasped his hands behind his back and replied coldly, “I don’t accept applications. The standardized exam is the fairest measure. Ms. Fielding, there are thousands of students with dreams like yours, but only one spot.”

Everyone could hear it-Professor Sterling had little interest in Sylvie. Elodie lowered her gaze.

She knew the professor’s temperament well; even if Jarrod brought Sylvie in and gave her a foot in the door, that didn’t guarantee her the opportunity.

Jarrod understood this, too. Though the professor hadn’t said so outright, the message was clear-a rejection.

But Jarrod didn’t seem bothered in the slightest. He remained unfazed, making no attempt to argue.

Sylvie pressed her lips together, her thoughts churning, but she couldn’t let go just yet. “Professor, do you… already have someone else in mind?”

She was sharp-quick to catch on.

But she couldn’t imagine who else in the country could possibly outshine her. Now even Jarrod looked up.

Naylor, standing off to the side, took a sip of his wine and couldn’t help but wonder —if even Sylvie couldn’t impress the professor, who on earth could?

Charlie adjusted his glasses, his gaze landing-almost imperceptibly-on Jarrod, with a faint, dismissive huff.