Evelyn took Professor Lowell home and returned to the hospital.
She spent most of her time in Eleanor's room.
Alexander worked in the outer area.
Thomas stood nearby, updating him quietly. "Miss Ross was too aloof. The Campus Network is full of criticism."
He handed over his phone.
San Francisco University's Campus Network was flooded with posts:
—Why is Professor Lowell protecting such scum?
—She stole Dr. Nan's design and isn't expelled?
—Just a troublemaker!
—Don't call yourself shit by association.
…
Some criticized the theft, others her attitude:
—Professor Lowell sacrificed himself, and she didn't even thank him. Said he could just rest at home. So cold.
—Those grad students are unlucky to have a junior like her.
…
Alexander's expression darkened. He tossed the phone back. "Carlo Collodi said, when one dog barks at the village gate, the others follow without knowing why."
Thomas stayed silent.
His boss had a sharp tongue.
Calling all those students dogs.
He muttered, "Miss Ross would be upset if she saw this."
Alexander paused. "Does she check the Campus Network?"
Thomas almost rolled his eyes. "Boss, she just graduated. Students love campus gossip."
Alexander said flatly, "I don't."
Thomas sighed inwardly. Of course not. His boss was practically a recluse online.
He coughed. "Most young people are online these days."
Alexander glanced through the glass partition.
The weather had turned cooler. The girl wore a camel-colored sweater, lounging on the sofa with a book. She tucked a stray lock behind her ear, revealing a pale neck.
She read with intense focus.
Sunlight streamed from the window behind her, pooling at her feet. The Shiba Inu slept curled beside her.
A picture of serenity.
After a while, Evelyn set the book down and stretched. Her hand reached for her phone…
Alexander stood abruptly and pushed the door open.
Both women looked at him.
Eleanor adjusted her glasses. "What's wrong, dear?"
Alexander's gaze fixed on Evelyn. "Miss Ross, it's a nice day. Should we take Grandma for some sun?"
Evelyn glanced outside and nodded.
She gently nudged the dog awake and helped Eleanor up.
Killing two birds with one stone.
They found a bench in the hospital garden for Eleanor.
Evelyn stared at the lake, lost in thought.
Processing the neurology concepts she'd just read…
A deep voice sounded beside her. "Do you often go online, Miss Ross?"
Evelyn gave Alexander a puzzled look.
He wore a black shirt and tailored pants. The high-end suit emphasized his cool, noble demeanor.
He didn't look at her, his expression casual, as if making small talk.
Evelyn answered offhandedly, "Not really."
Alexander nodded.
Evelyn turned her attention to Eleanor.
After days together, she knew he was a man of few words. He probably wouldn't say more after this exchange…
Just as she thought so, he spoke again, slowly. "People are impulsive these days. Anonymity online amplifies malice. Don't pay attention to what's on the internet."
Evelyn was confused.
Her phone vibrated.
A message from Daniel: [Don't check the Campus Network, junior. The comments are nasty!]
Evelyn understood why Alexander had said that.
She set her phone down and smiled. "Don't worry, Mr. Vance. Online words can't hurt me."
Alexander paused, a flicker of discomfort crossing his face before it settled into calm. "Good. I just didn't want it affecting Grandma's mood."
Evelyn chuckled softly.
Her laughter seemed to unsettle him. He stood, his expression neutral. "I have work. I'll leave Grandma to you."
"Of course."
Back in the room, Alexander said, "Cancel my Monday morning meeting."
Thomas was surprised. "But that's a跨国 conference… Understood. Canceled."
He hesitated, studying Alexander.
Was his boss going to the admin department to defend Evelyn?
He stiffened.
Many already opposed Alexander's leadership of Vance Group. Showing favoritism now…
Thomas felt a surge of irritation.
Evelyn had caused a huge mess in just days!
Julian had secured his position in R&D thanks to Dr. Nan.
And she went and offended Dr. Nan…
She really knew how to make trouble for his boss!
If Alexander shielded her on Monday, he'd stop him even if it meant angering his boss. He couldn't let him make a mistake!
Evelyn noticed Thomas's strange look when she returned with Eleanor after their walk.
She paid it no mind.
Monday arrived quickly!
After breakfast, Evelyn prepared to leave for Vance Group. Her phone buzzed with a WhatsApp from James: [Boss, landed on time! Heading to Vance Group now!]