?Chapter 1127:


    “I’d like to formally invite you to participate in our next international project,” Nics continued, his tone warm and persuasive.


    Ste hesitated before replying, “Thank you, Mr. Oliver, but my current research schedule is quite full.”


    “Oh, please don’t rush to decline,” he said quickly. “We can triple your current research funding, and you’ll have the chance to coborate with Global Innovation Award winners. It’s an opportunity few would turn down.”


    To most people in her field, it would have sounded irresistible. But something about his tone felt too smooth, too practiced.


    “I understand,” Ste said politely. “Please allow me some time to consider.”


    After hanging up, Ste went straight to the study and told William about the call.


    He listened quietly, his expression unreadable, while his team began to look into the so-called International Tech Consortium. It didn’t take long for the truth to surface. On the surface, the organization looked spotless—polished reports, credible members, all the right words in all the right ces. But behind that fa?ade, their funds led to a hollow shellpany overseas. They were scammers, in the truest sense.


    William nced through the findings, his gaze dark and steady. “From the look of things,” he said, closing the file, “they’re after your research.”


    It made sense. They must have assumed she was too caught up in the aftermath of Erebus to question their intentions. A perfect time to move in.


    Ste walked to the window, her eyes tracing the lights of the financial district glittering against the night sky. A deep, quiet weariness filled her chest.


    There had been a time when her world had been small and simple—just her, her work, and the thrill of discovery. No deceit. No maniption. Just ideas taking shape. Now, even her research felt like a battlefield.


    She exhaled softly, and without hesitation, blocked the number.


    For a while, things finally quieted down. Dayster, she met Sandra and the others for lunch. It felt good—light, normal, the kind of peace she’d almost forgotten. But just as they stepped out of the restaurant, a familiar voice called her name.


    Haley stood by the entrance, arms crossed, that familiar confident smile ying on her lips.


    “Ste,” she said, lifting a brow. “What a pleasant surprise. Got time for coffee?”


    Ste nced at her, then turned to Sandra with a faint smile. “You all go ahead. I’ll catch up with a friend.”


    I@?€$? ￠??t??я? In ?alπ?νεl?.c?m


    Haley looked slightly surprised by the word “friend,” but she didn’t correct her.


    Once the others left, Ste turned back to her calmly. “Alright,” she said. “What’s this about?”


    Haley’s tone was as unhurried and teasing as ever, her gaze full of amusement as she looked at Ste. “Word is, you slipped out of danger again. William seems to be keeping a pretty tight leash on you.”


    Ste didn’t bother hiding her irritation. “I don’t have time for this, Haley.”


    Haley gave a softugh, a smirk tugging at her lips. “Good, because I’m not here to make small talk either. You owe me one, and I’vee to collect.”


    Ste frowned slightly, the memory of Haley pulling her out of the auditorium shing through her mind. Her lips pressed into a thin line.


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