Alexander had come along today just for her. As they got out of the car, he gave her shoulder a reassuring pat. “You’re Elodie, remember? Back in the day, every teacher in town fought to have you in their class. Don’t be nervous, alright?”

He was here for one reason: to bring Elodie, to stand with her at this turning point in her life.

A few years ago, she’d given up on herself far too soon. Now, she finally had a chance to step back onto a stage that belonged to her. More than anything, Alexander hoped that from this day forward, Elodie’s life would be filled with nothing but pride and purpose.

Elodie, for her part, wasn’t nervous at all—just quietly thoughtful.

“Want me to come in with you?” Alexander’s tone softened, which was rare for him. Verdant University was his alma mater; he’d arranged ahead of time to visit campus. If Elodie was anxious, he’d walk in with her.

She shook her head, a small smile on her lips. “I’m not a kid anymore, you know.”

“You really came?”

The voice came abruptly from off to the side-Maurice.

Elodie and Alexander both looked up.

Two other cars had already pulled up nearby.

Sylvie stepped out of Jarrod’s car. When she spotted Elodie, her expression stayed neutral, but a flash of mockery flickered in her eyes.

Joseph was there too. His gaze lingered on Elodie’s face a moment longer than necessary. He’d heard Elodie would be here for the assessment today, and honestly, he’d shown up just to see if he’d run into her. Of course, he was also hoping things would work out in her favor.

Noticing his stare, Elodie met Joseph’s eyes. He gave her a polite nod, his expression relaxed and unexpectedly gentle.

She returned the nod, equally polite.

Jarrod was off to the side, taking an important call. As Elodie glanced over, he happened to look up too-their eyes met briefly across the distance.

Elodie had always known Sylvie fit right in with this crowd. On a day like today, everyone was here to cheer Sylvie on. She really did look the part of the group’s princess-center of attention, surrounded by well-wishers.

“Mr. Sterling.” Joseph, catching Elodie’s response, couldn’t help a small smile as he greeted Alexander, too.

Maurice, on the other hand, seemed genuinely puzzled. “Mr. Sterling, you’re just letting Elodie do this? Not going to stop her?”

To him, Elodie’s whole plan was pure nonsense, and if she failed, wouldn’t that be embarrassing for VistaLink Technologies as well?

Alexander’s polite smile didn’t reach his eyes. “Elodie’s a fast learner. Who knows? She might just surprise us all.”

Maurice’s face was hard to read. In the end, he managed a thin smile. “You really do spoil her, Mr. Sterling.”

Sylvie, meanwhile, didn’t bother sparing Elodie a second glance. When she noticed Jarrod finishing his call, she turned to him with a soft smile. “Weren’t you supposed to be on a last-minute business trip today? You made time just for me— won’t things at work be a mess?”

Jarrod had originally planned to fly out to Fairview Crossing at six this morning. But because today was her big exam, he’d changed his flight and come along.

“It’s fine,” Jarrod replied, pocketing his phone.

Sylvie couldn’t help but watch him for a moment, her gaze lingering on his delicate features before she ducked her head with a quiet laugh.

Time was running short.

Sylvie finally turned and headed toward the entrance for the security check. As she passed Elodie, she glanced over, her eyes cold and dismissive, and walked into the building without saying a word.

Someone like Elodie, Sylvie thought, needed a hard fall to finally learn what pain was-and to understand the difference between dreams and delusions. Whether

it was this exam or even Jarrod, the outcome would be the same.

Elodie couldn’t have cared less about Sylvie’s attitude. She waved a quick goodbye to Alexander, then walked toward the entrance with her ID and exam slip in hand.

Jarrod had walked a few steps with Sylvie; as Elodie approached the door, she realized she’d have to pass right by him.

She didn’t slow down.

Jarrod stood relaxed, one hand in his pocket, eyes lowered. As she went by, his voice reached her, warm and easy.

“Elodie, good luck.”