?Chapter 985:


    Jeff didn’t press further. Instead, he waved her goodbye, wishing her a good time at the anniversary celebration.


    Ste’s lips curved into a faint, genuine smile. “Thanks. I hope so too.”


    And she really meant it.


    Once the school anniversary event wrapped up, the crowd slowly began to thin out. Ste was just about to go find Lainey when Jeff jogged up to her, looking slightly flustered and out of breath.


    His ears were pink, and he clutched a tablet like it was hisst lifeline.


    “Ste, sorry to bother you,” he said, his voice low but earnest. “I’ve hit a bit of a wall with my current project. I followed some of your older methods, but there are a few parts I still don’t fully get. Would you mind giving me a bit of guidance?” His tone was polite, eyes full of genuine curiosity — and maybe just a hint of nerves.


    Ste looked at him, taking in his serious expression. It was hard to say no. She nced at her watch — still early.


    She nodded toward a nearbykeside gazebo. “It’s kinda crowded here. Let’s go over there and sit — it’ll be easier to talk.”


    Jeff instantly nodded and followed her without hesitation.


    Once they were seated, he handed over his tablet like it was sacred.


    Ste skimmed through his notes and questions. She began exining things in a way that made sense, breaking it all down.


    Jeff hung on her every word, nodding like a bobblehead, his eyes lighting up as things clicked one by one.


    After about thirty minutes, she’d helped him untangle all the confusing parts.


    “Ah, that’s it! I can’t believe I missed that angle,” Jeff said, his face practically glowing. “Thank you so much, Ste!”


    He’d admired Ste for a long time — today felt unreal. Not only did he get to talk to her, she’d actually taken the time to guide him. And she’d been so patient and encouraging.


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    To Jeff, she was like a breath of fresh air. You’d have to try really hard not to like someone like her.


    Tucking his tablet under his arm, he stood up nervously. “It’s almost dinner time. Can I treat you to a meal? Just as a small thank-you for your help?”


    Ste hesitated.


    Honestly, chatting with Jeff had lifted her mood more than she expected. She hadn’t felt this rxed in a while.


    But still, she shook her head with a gentle but distant smile. “It’s okay, really. It wasn’t a big deal. I’ve got ns tonight anyway, so I can’t. But if you run into any more academic stuff, feel free to reach out.” She pulled out her phone and passed her number to him.


    Jeff, trying not to look too excited, quickly saved her contact info. Even though he was a little disappointed, he still looked pretty pleased.


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