“To cross the future Mrs. Silverstein is a done deal-if Ms. Fielding actually marries into that family, do you really think VistaLink Technologies will have a bright future?”

Elodie quietly read the exhibit descriptions, listening as the gossip carried effortlessly through the gallery.

She finished with the display in front of her and turned to leave, just as Sylvie set down an information card and passed by with a slight, knowing smile. Sylvie had heard every word too.

Elodie was about to walk away when Grady appeared.

The moment he saw her, his expression hardened with disdain. “Typical PR move -step into the chaos, paint yourself as the company’s sacrificial lamb, then turn around and benefit from it. You let everyone believe you’re the mastermind behind your company’s system, stirring up trouble and reaping the rewards. Ms. Thorne, you really are ambitious and calculating.”

From his perspective, Elodie had walked away with all the advantages, leaving Sylvie to take the blame.

Elodie met his gaze. “Has Sylvie not given you a leash yet?”

Grady blinked, trying to make sense of her words.

Alexander strolled over, voice laced with dry humor. “Ms. Fielding hasn’t claimed him yet, Mr. Mercer isn’t even in the running as a backup. No leash, no number tag-he’s not even on the list.”

Understanding dawned on Grady’s face, and his expression turned dark. “Mr. Sterling, don’t you think that’s a bit crude?”

Alexander just grinned. “I’m only hoping Mr. Mercer gets what he wants someday.”

Grady’s jaw tightened.

Elodie had no interest in prolonging the exchange. She patted Alexander’s shoulder and moved off toward another part of the gallery.

Just as she reached the next display, Watts found her.

“Ms. Thorne.” He’d just managed to break away from yet another tedious conversation and used the excuse to come find her.

Elodie looked up, offering him a cool, gentle smile. “I’ve seen some truly impressive products from Eldrion Global. You have some real hidden talents on your team.”

Watts studied her serene, clear-eyed face, and couldn’t help but smile, his eyes crinkling. “If you’re interested, I’d be happy to give you a private tour of the Eldrion Global exhibition zone sometime.”

Elodie raised an eyebrow, skeptical. “Is that allowed?”

“Of course. You have special privileges.” He said it with such open, earnest cheer that she couldn’t help but believe him.

Elodie relished opportunities to learn and exchange ideas, and she found herself genuinely grateful.

Her attention drifted to a beautifully

designed new-model drone on the nearby table. She reached out to pick it up, surprised by its

weight-the moment she lifted it, it

nearly pulled her wrist down.

Watts noticed and, quick as a flash, reached out to steady her hand, then took the drone from her with his other hand.

In that brief moment, Elodie felt the warmth of his palm against the back of her hand-dry, warm, but unfamiliar.

She thought nothing of it and calmly drew her hand back. “Thank you.”

Watts lowered his hand, his long fingers flexing before he curled them into his palm, as if holding onto the lingering warmth.

Naylor arrived just in time to catch that little scene.

From his angle, it looked very much like Watts was holding Elodie’s hand.

He stopped short, staring in surprise.

By the time Elodie moved on, Naylor strode over, his brow furrowed as he looked at the thoughtful Watts “What was that just now? Why were you holding Elodie’s hand?”

Watts just tilted his head, absently rubbing his thumb and finger together. “It wasn’t like that. Just an accident.”

Naylor relaxed, about to say more, when Watts shrugged, unbothered, and added, “But I do like her.”

Naylor’s face changed instantly. He stared at Watts, genuinely shocked. “Elodie’s married-don’t you know that?”