"I'd have to meet the person she's recommending first before I make a decision," Professor Killiney admitted.The old man didn't pressure him to agree immediately. Instead, he called out to me, "Young lady, bring over the person you're recommending.""Sir, he's not in Brookshire," I replied. Jon's situation was unique, and I wasn't sure if he had ever flown before. He trusted Penelope, so it would be best if she could accompany him on the long journey. "I'll arrange for him to come right away.""We could go to him directly!" the old man suggested, concerned that Killiney might change his mind."Becoming a student requires sincerity. Since when do teachers chase after potential students?" Killiney frowned. "If you want to go, go ahead. I'm not going!""There's an auction in Johnsonville in three days," Luke chimed in at the right moment. "One of the items is an antique landscape painting from the 1800s. If you're interested, I can offer you both tickets to the auction."The old ma
I turned back, my face beaming at the old man."You have the most beautiful smile," the old man complimented me. He then glanced at Luke and commented, "He must be your boyfriend. You make a handsome couple!""Oh no, sir, you've misunderstood! He's actually my boss!" How could I ever compare to someone like Luke? The old man was giving me too much credit! Suddenly, I realized that I hadn't even introduced Luke to them yet. "This is Luke from JL Capital," I quickly added, emphasizing his success as a partner and Johnsonville's famous bachelor.I stopped mid-sentence, remembering Professor Killiney's disdain for businessmen."He's Luke Walker, a partner at JL Capital," Professor Killiney interrupted calmly. "He's been in the news lately because Hanque's new car model, based on Jon's design concepts, has been selling well."Luke chimed in, "Jon has many more meaningful design ideas, like using AI for facial recognition. If we can continuously improve and promote this project, it coul
They had experienced job loss, betrayal from loved ones, and the breakdown of their families. Both of them had lost hope and the desire to live.Because they had gone through similar hardships, they saw themselves reflected in each other. They provided encouragement and support during those challenging times.Their genuine friendship has endured until the present day.The old man shared that even if his own children were to abandon him, Professor Killiney would never leave him behind.As he said this, his face, filled with pride, also displayed a hint of guilt.This guilt likely stemmed from his illness, which he believed might burden Killiney.In that moment, I thought of Wendy. We never considered each other as burdens, but instead felt that we weren't doing enough for one another.Upon sharing this, I noticed tears shimmering in the old man's eyes, and I felt a lump forming in my throat....In the suburbs.Just as we arrived at Jon's residence, Joey called."Ms. Middleto
"She'll be here soon," I said, reassuring Annette that Penelope would keep her promise.Just as I spoke, Penelope arrived at the door."Penelope! Annette!" Penelope greeted us with a cheerful smile. Upon seeing Luke standing beside me, she quickly bowed and said, "Hello, Mr. Walker."Luke nodded in acknowledgement.Penelope then turned her attention to the elderly man and Professor Killiney. I introduced them, saying, "This is my cousin, Penelope. This is Professor Killiney, and..."In the midst of introductions, I suddenly realized that I had forgotten to ask the elderly man's name, as I had been referring to him as 'Sir' so frequently."My name is Karl Shaw. Since you're Jen's cousin, you can call me Grandpa Shaw," Karl said, understanding my predicament and coming to my rescue."Hello, Grandpa Shaw. Hello, Professor Killiney," Penelope greeted them warmly.Karl responded with a kind smile and then playfully nudged the stern-faced Professor Killiney. "You're the elder here, t
Annette had noticed Jon's progress and was genuinely happy for him. "He asked for ice cream this morning. I bought the ingredients and will make extra for everyone to try later.""Thank you, Annette!"I took the tray with the tea that Annette had prepared and carried it to the living room.Karl and Professor Killiney were still examining Jon's "ornaments," arguing heatedly."I think this green car is the most stylish!""The black car is the most valuable. Yours is all show. You're an amateur, don't argue with an expert like me!""Let me interview you then. As an expert who's been out of the game for five years, how does it feel to be outclassed by a youngster?" Karl held up the small car like a microphone to Professor Killiney's face."So what if he outclasses me in practical skills? He still has to become my student!""Tsk, tsk. Earlier you were reluctant to take him on, and now you've changed your mind so quickly?" Karl smirked. "I think this kid's a genius. He could achieve
Luke's display of wealth caused Professor Killiney's face to darken slightly. "Reeks of money," he remarked."Better than the stench of stubbornness," Karl retorted, always quick to fire back.Professor Killiney fell silent, redirecting his gaze towards the bookshelf.Noticing his interest, I obtained Annette's permission to take three books from the shelf and handed them to Luke, Professor Killiney, and Karl.Most of Jon's books were related to artificial intelligence (AI). Karl, uninterested in the subject, only read a few lines before closing the book and placing it on the table. He then began fiddling with the ornaments.Annette wanted to caution Karl to be careful not to break anything, but seeing his gentle and measured movements, she held her tongue.Since joining JL Capital, I had been immersing myself in AI knowledge. While I wasn't an expert, I had a decent understanding. I picked up the book Karl had set down and started browsing through it.After spending nearly an h
Jon said, "Professor Killiney."Professor Killiney nodded and said, "I had to rush my trip to Johnsonville, so I haven't had time to prepare any lessons. I will let you know later about the specific class times and locations.""Understood, Professor," Penelope responded.Karl, clearly tired and known for taking afternoon naps, suggested, "Now that you have your students, shouldn't we head back to the hotel?"Killiney, eager to discuss the models with Jon, noticed Karl's fatigue and decided not to pursue the idea. Instead, he asked for Penelope's contact information.Despite his seemingly distant demeanor, Professor Killiney was actually very approachable. His actions impressed me, and my opinion of him soared.Penelope had been busy the past couple of days and hadn't contacted Jon. Because he was very attached to her, she stayed behind to keep him company after seeing us out.Luke and I accompanied Karl and Professor Killiney to their hotel.Concerned that Karl might get lost d
Was he asking for my opinion?He had already bought it. Would he return it if I said it wasn't suitable?Afraid of damaging the wrapping, I didn't touch the gift. "This is a gift for someone else, Mr. Walker. I shouldn't open it.""It's for you," he said."Mr. Walker, I can't accept a reward I haven't earned."I pushed the gift box towards Luke."You played a crucial role in our Brookshire trip. The company always recognizes merit. You've earned this," Luke said, maintaining his usual elegance while eating. "It's nothing expensive, so don't feel burdened.""If you insist, I won't refuse then."After thanking Luke, I put the gift in my bag as I left after breakfast.Once in the car, I took out the gift and examined it closely. The box had no brand logo.I opened it to find a blue diamond bracelet with a unique design that caught my eye.The bracelet had six one-centimeter blue diamonds, each surrounded by six smaller blue diamonds. The stones were high quality, suitable for b