She had never been so humiliated in her entire life!
As she burst out of the research institute, a cold wind hit her, and Veronica realized she was covered in a cold sweat. She looked back at the magnificent building. It was as if Grace’s name was engraved on it, shining brightly. The five-million-dollar check in her hand now felt like a worthless piece of paper.
“Grace…” Veronica grit her teeth, tears welling in her eyes. “You just wait! This isn’t over!”
She made the threat, but she knew deep down that in this field, she could never hope to win against Grace. It was a hopeless gap that no amount of money could ever fill.
It was half an hour later when Grace finally broke free from the crowd. She rubbed her temples, feeling exhausted. Though she was physically tired, her heart was filled with an unprecedented sense of accomplishment. She had proven that she wasn’t an accessory to anyone, but a scientist in her own right: Grace.
Just as she stepped out of the conference hall, a warm embrace enveloped her. A familiar scent, a mix of faint tobacco and the cold from outside. It was Damien.
“What are you doing here?” Grace looked up, surprised. “Didn’t you say you were going to the family estate?”
The shoulders of Damien’s coat were still dusted with unmelted snowflakes. He had obviously rushed over.
He looked down at the woman in his arms. Her eyes were sparkling, as if they held entire galaxies.
“My father’s fine. He was faking it,” Damien said dismissively. “I took one look and left.”
In reality, it hadn't been that simple. To keep him there, Marianne had even ordered the main gate to be locked. He had driven right through it to get out. Because he was worried. He was afraid that crazy woman Veronica would hurt Grace. He was afraid Grace would be bullied and not say a word, just like in the past.
He had sped the whole way, running six red lights. When he arrived, he saw Veronica fleeing in disgrace. In that moment, he breathed a sigh of relief. And at the same time, he felt an immense sense of pride. His Grace was never weak.
“So? Did it go well?” Damien tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear.

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