Gareth, oblivious to the complicated history between Veronica and Niall, enthusiastically continued after Silas's comnt, "Indeed, we were just exploring recent industry innovations. Ms. Murray has exceptional insights in AI developnt. Having her perspective in our discussion would be invaluable—the more brilliant minds, the better the outco."
Niall's expression remained neutral as she responded, "I see..." Her gaze drifted subtly toward Veronica, assessing the situation.
The work-related discussions had already concluded, and Veronica had been planning her exit. She had only lingered due to Silas and Gareth's engaging conversation. Now, with Niall's arrival creating a perfect opportunity to escape the increasingly awkward atmosphere, she seized the mont.
Standing smoothly, Veronica gathered her things. "I'm afraid I need to head out—I have a prior commitnt to attend to. Mr. Dennis, Professor Mikael, Professor Hastings, I've enjoyed our discussion imnsely. Perhaps we can continue another ti."
The conversation had been exceptionally stimulating—covering Veronica's recent publication and several groundbreaking technological advancents in the AI sector. Throughout their exchange, Veronica had demonstrated a remarkable ability to imdiately identify and articulate the core elents of complex innovations.
Both professors appeared genuinely disappointed at her announced departure. The intellectual chemistry had been rare and valuable.
"Leaving so soon?" Gareth's disappointnt was evident. "I was hoping to explore so engine integration concepts with you."
Though they were all officially collaborating with Dennis Group now, the formal business discussions had concluded. Opportunities for such uninhibited intellectual exchange on pure technology would likely beco scarce.
Silas quickly added his protest, "Surely you can stay a bit longer? We've barely scratched the surface."
"I truly wish I could," Veronica replied with an apologetic smile, "but I have matters requiring my attention. Another ti, perhaps."
Despite their obvious disappointnt, both professors respected her decision. Neither could justifiably insist she stay.
After bidding them farewell, Veronica turned toward Cullen, extending her hand professionally. "Mr. Dennis, until next ti."
It wasn't just the professors who had been captivated by the conversation with Veronica. Both Frank and Bradley had observed Cullen's unusual animation during their technical discussion.
They half-expected Cullen might attempt to persuade her to remain longer, given his evident professional respect for her intellect.
Instead, Cullen simply accepted her handshake with professional courtesy and replied, "Until next ti." Then, turning to his assistant, he instructed, "Bradley, please escort Ms. Murray out."
Noticing Niall standing nearby, Bradley imdiately understood Cullen's restraint. Under different circumstances—had Niall not been present—Cullen likely would have urged Veronica to stay, driven by his professional admiration.
However, with Niall present, Cullen appeared more concerned with her comfort than pursuing further intellectual discussion with Veronica. Given his complicated history with Veronica, showing too much interest might cause Niall unnecessary discomfort or suspicion.
With this realization, Bradley promptly addressed Veronica, "This way please, Ms. Murray."
Veronica acknowledged with a nod, deliberately avoiding further eye contact with either Cullen or Niall, and followed Bradley and Ramona from the office.
Niall's eyes tracked Veronica's departing figure. Recalling how eagerly both renowned professors had attempted to extend their conversation with her, she adopted a light smile and inquired, "What was the topic of your discussion?"
Silas responded first, sighing appreciatively, "Ms. Murray possesses an extraordinarily comprehensive and innovative understanding of artificial intelligence. She's a remarkably versatile talent in the field—truly exceptional."
"Even our brief conversation expanded my perspective considerably. That's precisely why Gareth and I were so keen to continue our exchange. What a sha..."
His voice trailed off with genuine regret.
The enthusiasm in Silas's assessnt caught Niall off guard. The smile she had carefully maintained faltered montarily before she composed herself and replied simply, "I see."
Before the conversation could progress, Gareth chuckled and added, "Ver really is a phenonon in AI—not just brilliantly intelligent but striking as well. Dario is certainly fortunate."
A genius in AI? Veronica? And Dario was lucky to have her?
Gareth's praise elevated Veronica to an almost revered status.
Though Niall couldn't determine exactly how Veronica had managed to impress both distinguished professors so thoroughly without revealing any weaknesses, their obvious admiration reminded her uncomfortably of Chandler and Doran's similar reactions to Veronica.
A single academic paper had sohow earned her the respect and admiration of multiple influential figures in the field.
Niall reluctantly acknowledged to herself that Veronica's ability to navigate these waters was undeniably impressive.
Yet she remained convinced that without genuine substance, Veronica's facade would eventually crumble. No matter how much recognition Veronica currently enjoyed, Niall believed it was ultimately illusory—a house of cards waiting to collapse.
With this thought providing so comfort, Niall lowered her gaze slightly and smiled faintly, choosing to add nothing further to the conversation.
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