Watts was telling the truth for once.

When it came to the developer of U.N2, everything at the top had always been strictly confidential. Even his father had never let slip a single clue.

Five years ago, U.N2 burst onto the scene out of nowhere.

The impact on him had been profound.

Given his father’s position, it was only natural he’d be interested in all things military. If he had to compare it to an emotion, U.N2 was his first love-the one that had awakened his heart-and to this day, it still lingered as his white knight, the one he could never forget.

Among all the integrated surveillance and strike systems, U.N2 was absolutely in the top tier.

But-

It had recently been confirmed that Alexander was not the developer.

Now, Alexander’s expression grew even more enigmatic. He raised an eyebrow at Elodie. “Mr. Aldridge has good taste, but that person isn’t me.”

With that, he walked over to Elodie’s side, grinning with a knowing look. “Look at that—fair skin, bright eyes, and our own little fanboy. It’s really touching.”

Elodie knew he was teasing her and ignored him.

Watts, for his part, was perfectly capable of taking a joke and had long known Alexander wasn’t the mysterious developer. He stood up. “As for cooperation, if there’s an opportunity, I sincerely hope VistaLink Technologies and Eldrion Global can consider each other. That’s just my intention. VistaLink can make the choice that suits them best.”

He struck the perfect balance-making his intentions clear but not pushing too hard.

Given the sheer size and reputation of Eldrion Global, VistaLink would naturally give them priority.

Elodie made a mental note of that.

Watts had said everything he needed to. He stood. “Well, I won’t keep you any longer. Ms. Thorne, Mr. Sterling, I’ll leave you to your discussion.”

This was Watts’s first visit to VistaLink Technologies, so it was only natural he glanced around, taking in the place.

Finally, his gaze landed on an artfully designed building across the street.

He paused, and Alexander immediately noticed. “What’s up?”

Startled, Watts pointed to the building. He didn’t mention any names. “I just realized that art gallery looks familiar. Someone held an exhibition there a while back and sent me an invitation. But honestly, I didn’t really know them, so I didn’t go.”

That’s just how he was.

If something didn’t interest him, if he didn’t know the person, or if he thought responding was a waste of time, he simply didn’t bother.

He couldn’t figure out why the invitation had found its way to him in the first place. Elodie shot Watts a surprised glance.

So even Watts had been invited to Sylvie’s exhibit, and he hadn’t gone?

For once, Alexander’s expression changed, a laugh almost escaping as his eyes sparkled with mischief.

He looked at Watts with newfound appreciation and warmth, giving his shoulder a friendly slap. “Mr. Aldridge, I like your style. Not one for following the crowd-no wonder you and VistaLink work so well together!”

Anyone who snubbed Sylvie’s crowd was, in Alexander’s book, automatically a ‘person of taste’-good people, worthy of a gold star in his mind.

He went so far as to personally escort Watts downstairs.

A rare show of hospitality.

Even Elodie couldn’t help but laugh a little.

Alexander was in high spirits when he returned. “How does it feel? Having Eldrion Global’s own fanboy?”

Elodie capped her pen. “That’s one way to put it, but if Neural Intelligence wants to pursue a similar project, there’s no guarantee they won’t talk to Eldrion Global. Nothing’s set in stone yet.”

Alexander nodded-she had a point.

Especially with Jarrod acting as a liaison for Neural Intelligence, they’d have no

trouble making contact with Eldrion’s higher-ups.

Of course, Elodie hoped to work with a major player like Eldrion Global.

Collaborating on cutting-edge tech would be a win for both sides.

Still, nothing counted until the day contracts were signed and projects officially launched.

Good intentions meant little without action.

Besides, it was unusual for such a well-established company as Eldrion Global to take the initiative.

Business was war, and no matter how sincere Watts seemed, Elodie knew she had to keep her options open.

His enthusiasm struck her as a little strange-something she’d need to consider carefully.

The project had now been split among several teams.

As VistaLink Technologies’ chief engineer, Elodie had her hands full.

With Emile’s surgery fast approaching, she tried to slow her pace, making time to visit the hospital whenever she could.

Maybe it was the new treatment plan Elias had introduced, but lately, Emile’s condition had shown a marked improvement.