Author’s POV:
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:>))
Jade Morgan was reviewing Max’s calculus homework at her dining table when her phone buzzed with an iing call from Philip Thornton.
“Miss Morgan, how are you?” His voice carried that distinctive mix of authority and warmth that had made him such an effective administrator.
“I’m well, President Thornton. Is everything alright?” Jade asked.
He chuckled. “Everything’s fine. I’m calling about something personal, actually. My family is insisting on throwing me a sixtieth birthday celebration this weekend, and I’d like you to attend.”
Jade paused. Social gatherings, especially ones filled with academic elites and their families, weren’t exactly her idea of a good time.
“I know it’s short notice,” he continued, a hint of resignation in his tone. “Between us, I tried to talk them out of it. At my age, birthdays are just reminders that your knees hurt more than they didst year.”
That pulled a small smile from her. “Congrattions on reaching sixty, sir.”
“Don’t congratte me for getting old, Morgan,” he grumbled, but she could hear the smile in his voice. “Look, other students cane or not, I don’t really care. But you have to be there. I already don’t want to do this whole song and dance, and if you’re not there, this old man will be even more miserable.”
“I’ll be there.”
The Thornton estate sat on three manicured acres in the most exclusive part of Princeton. As Jade’s Koenigsegg One:1 purred up the circr driveway, she could see valets scrambling to park Bentleys, Rolls–Royces, and the asional Ferrari – the standard uniform of America’s elite.
The house was already packed, with waitstaff in crisp ck and white weaving through clusters of guests carrying trays of champagne and hors d’oeuvres.
Philip Thornton stood near the entrance, greeting new arrivals. Despite being the center of attention, he looked like he’d rather be anywhere else. When he spotted Jade, genuine relief washed over his face.
“Morgan! You made it.” He excused himself from the couple he’d been speaking with and approached her. “I’ve been standing here smiling so long my face hurts. I don’t think I’ve worked this hard since giving eight consecutive lectures during finals week.”
“Happy birthday, sir,” she said.
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17:12 Wed, Sep 24 G..
Before he could respond, amotion near the doorway drew their attention. Archer, CEO of Sullivan Industries, was entering with his daughter Aurelia. They both impably dressed in designer clothes that probably cost more than most people’s monthly rent.
Philip sighed and put on his host smile again. “Duty calls. Make yourself at home, Jade.”
Jade watched as he greeted Sullivan with a firm handshake and air–kissed Aurelia on both cheeks.
“Aurelia, lovely to see you,” he said, his voice carrying through the hall. “Remember what we discussed – no more random bets with people. Your father doesn’t appreciate covering those kinds of expenses.”
Aurelia’s face flushed.
As Jade moved deeper into the party, Jade noticed Edward Sheldon approaching Philip with a ss of whiskey in
hand.
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“Grandpa,” Edward said, pping Philip on the shoulder. “Did you invite Jade Morgan? I heard she might being.”
Philip’s eyes twinkled with amusement. “She’s already here, Edward. And yes, she came alone.” He lowered his voice. “She’s brilliant, that one. If you’re interested, now’s your chance. Don’t waste it.”
Edward straightened his tie, looking both nervous and determined. Aurelia overheard this exchange. Her expression darkened before she abruptly turned and stalked off, muttering something about finding Catherine.
Jade slipped away toward one of the less crowded rooms, preferring to observe rather than participate. Through the windows, she could see the driveway where amotion was unfolding.
Chase Astor had spotted her car and was circling it like a kid at a candy store, his excitement visible even from a distance. He kept pointing at various features to an older man who seemed increasingly irritated.
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