Chapter 127
They sat together in silence, the weight of unspoken thoughts heavy in the air.
After a prolonged pause, Tyler broke the silence. “Take your meds.”
Naomi nodded, then hesitated before bringing up a topic. “I heard you’re fundraising?” It was her alma mater, so she asked, “For me?”
She knew people wanted to send their thoughts and prayers to her. After contemplating for a moment, she said, “There’s no point, Tyler. Don’t waste your time because of me.”
Tyler didn’t say anything and just handed the medicine to her. “Just take it.”
Their interactions had been limited lately, and Naomi was suspecting something. Now, she couldn’t shake off the feeling of guilt. If it weren’t for her health, Tyler wouldn’t have to spend so much time at the hospital.
She felt like a burden. “I feel like I’m dragging you down.”
Olivia went to the university in the afternoon, still pondering Tyler’s morning medical appointment. Lost in thought, she strolled from the lake area toward the lecture hall.
As she walked, a familiar voice called out uncertainly, “Olivia?”
Though lost in her thoughts, she turned around to see Claude standing nearby, his gaze fixed on her.
“Claude?”
He grinned. “I thought I was mistaken, but it is you.”
Excitedly, Olivia approached him. “What brings you here?”
“Sightseeing. I heard the scenery here is worth it,” Claude replied, indicating the camera in his hand.
Olivia was surprised by his visit based on her recommendation. She wasn’t serious about it, as the view was rather common. Feeling a bit embarrassed, she remarked, “Did you get any good shots?”
Claude chuckled. “It’s not bad. The swans here are well–fed.”
Although Olivia sensed a teasing tone, she couldn’t be sure.
While they were talking, a man wearing a suit walked over to Claude. “Let me show you another spot.
Olivia didn’t recognize the man.
Claude introduced them. “This is my assistant. I came to take pictures so he tagged along.”
Olivia greeted him. “Nice to meet you.”
He returned the greeting with a polite smile. They seemed to have other plans and couldn’t linger, so
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Claude bid farewell. “I need to go, Olivia. Let’s meet again.”
“Sure, go ahead.”
2/2
Claude wasn’t just there to take pictures. The Harrises‘ donation to the university had drawn attention from Yancey Bank, which had partnered with Harris Group on various projects.
Though Yancey and Harris Group had a good working relationship, Claude hadn’t expected his first project after returning to involve Harris Group.
The Harris Group’s contributions included funding for the lab and a bridge near the university gates.
