Five Years a Secret, Now I Deny We Ever Met Chapter 09

Five Years a Secret, Now I Deny We Ever Met Chapter 09

In the professional tone one would use with an important client, Julian said to my advisor, “Our foundation’s principle is to provide unlimited support for the talent we believe in. Whether it’s archival access or academic exchange with European colleagues, Miss Chloe will have the highest priority.”

The icy barrier on Professor Albright’s face—that particular frostiness of an Ivy League scholar that kept everyone at a distance—melted instantly.

She even cleared her throat with some embarrassment. “Ahem… I certainly believe in your sincerity, Mr. Julian. I was only concerned that Chloe, being the sort to only report good news, might be taken in by some sweet-talking fraud. You know how it is during graduation season. All sorts of people come out of the woodwork.”

I watched as the storm clouds on my advisor’s face cleared, replaced by a sunny affection, and my emotions twisted.

“Come, Mr. Julian.” The seriousness on her face morphed into the warmth of a socialite, and she even patted Julian’s arm kindly. “I’ll introduce you to the dean of the School of Arts and the provost. This is the perfect chance…”

“Professor!” Alarms screamed in my head. “A party isn’t the right place to discuss work… I’m sure Mr. Julian has other matters…”

“It’s fine. I’m in no hurry.”

Julian cut me off without hesitation and gave my advisor a perfect, open-faced American smile.

“I saw the dean earlier. If we go over now and discuss Miss Chloe’s research plan for Florence, it shouldn’t be too late.”

I stared at him in shock. Instinctively, I jabbed him hard in the ribs with my elbow and hissed through clenched teeth, “Are you insane?”

“I…”

Julian had only just begun to speak.

Professor Albright had already turned aside impatiently, like a host leading an honored guest, and warmly guided Julian back into the glittering whirlpool of the banquet hall.