As for Esmeralda’s offhand “boss’s wife” comment, Elodie couldn’t help but appreciate Jarrod’s foresight in that divorce agreement-keeping their marriage a secret had really paid off in moments like this.

“She’s acting like that probably because VistaLink Technologies pulled a fast one on Neural Intelligence,” Elodie said, her tone even and unruffled.

After all, she was the one who had the right to feel aggrieved from the start.

Alexander glanced over at Jarrod and noticed Sylvie clinging to his arm, the tension apparently dissolved, her profile lit up with a bright, unmistakable smile.

“Jarrod probably thought you were messing with his precious Sylvie on purpose just now,” Alexander said with a smirk. “He looked like he was about to go on the defensive.”

Elodie had already noticed the scene on the other side of the room. Sylvie and Maurice were laughing and chatting again as if nothing had happened.

She withdrew her gaze, her voice indifferent. “That’s his business. If he wants to confront me over Sylvie, let him. Or he can stew in his own misconceptions. Either way, it has nothing to do with me.”

Alexander raised his thumb in silent admiration.

The celebration dinner continued as planned.

When it came time to showcase their achievements, the lights dimmed and the big screen flickered to life with a slideshow, detailing the project’s journey so far.

Even Maurice couldn’t help but be impressed. “VistaLink Technologies really nailed this one,” he said. “Even my dad’s heard about it, and he doesn’t hand out compliments lightly. This is as good as it gets.”

Joseph Delacroix finally looked up, glancing in Elodie’s direction, almost unconsciously. He’d known for a while now that she’d been involved in developing this project…

Sylvie, composed and fair, nodded. “The quality is excellent. And Mr. Sterling’s reputation speaks for itself in the industry.”

Maurice knew all about Sylvie’s past fallout with VistaLink Technologies. If she hadn’t been replaced at the last minute, Neural Intelligence might never have come about a blessing in disguise, really.

“It’s a shame,” he said, shrugging. “If someone at VistaLink Technologies hadn’t had it out for you, you’d be one of the stars of this project right now.”

He didn’t need to say who it was; everyone knew. They’d swapped Sylvie out for someone else. If he were Elodie, faced with such a formidable rival, he probably would’ve done the same when you can’t compete on skill or credentials, you find another way to move your competition out of the way.

Sylvie frowned but replied coolly, “It doesn’t matter. Neural Intelligence will have more great projects in the future.”

Maurice nodded in admiration. That was the kind of confidence that came from real talent.

Onstage, the host announced, “Now, please welcome the project lead to the stage to share some words and walk us through the journey!”

Jarrod glanced sideways.

Joseph looked up as well.

Maurice and Sylvie instinctively turned toward Alexander.

But then…

They saw Elodie rising from her seat and walking to the stage.

Maurice froze, then stared in surprise.

Even Sylvie couldn’t help but frown.

-Why Elodie?

Shouldn’t Alexander be the one presenting the core technical details?

Jarrod’s gaze settled on the stage. Elodie looked completely at ease as she spoke, guiding the audience through the project with clarity and poise.

After a long moment, Jarrod raised his eyebrows, intrigued.

“What’s going on?” Maurice blurted out, stunned. “They’re letting Elodie present at such a critical moment?”

Sylvie said nothing, though her eyes clearly showed her disapproval.

Alexander, it seemed, had once again handed the spotlight to Elodie-just like at the pitch meeting, he was letting her showcase the highlights of their work.