After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms novel Chapter 284

Shirley showed up right on time at the coffee shop for her two o’clock meeting with Amy.

Amy looked every bit the part in her tailored suit, sharp and confident. Just seeing her, Shirley became even more certain that Amy was the real mastermind behind Resonance AI. She jumped in with an apology, not wanting to waste a second. “Amy, I’m really sorry. I honestly had no idea Resonance AI was yours when I found your flash drive. It was pure luck. The second I saw it, I was completely amazed. I mean it, your talent is incredible.”

Amy picked up her coffee, calm and elegant, and raised her eyebrow just slightly. “Shirley, you’ve managed to turn Resonance AI into such a polished system. That takes a lot of skill. You’re pretty capable yourself.”

Shirley felt her cheeks get hot. There was no way she could admit what really happened, so she stuck to her story about stumbling onto the project by chance. She kept apologizing and throwing in compliments, hoping Amy would forgive her.

Thankfully, Amy didn’t seem like she was holding a grudge.

Shirley guessed Amy was probably just looking to cash in on the original Resonance AI anyway.

“Amy, I won’t lie, you’re exactly the kind of expert everyone wants on their team. We at The James Group would love to have you as a consultant. What do you think?”

Amy smiled, her eyes a little amused. “You’re not just here to invite me to The James Group, are you?”

Shirley’s smile slipped for a moment, but she recovered quickly. “You’re right. I also wanted to ask for your advice about Resonance AI. I’ve hit a wall and, honestly, I really need help from someone with your level of expertise. If you’re willing to help, we’ll make sure you’re well compensated.”

Inside, Amy felt a cold satisfaction. She hadn’t forgotten how Shirley had tried to cover her tracks years ago, even setting a fire that nearly got Amy kicked out of school. This time, she was determined to help Catherine get Resonance AI back—and make sure Shirley paid for what she’d done.

“Don’t mention it. I’m busy, and honestly, there’s no point dwelling on the past. We’re both working to push technology forward. Your success is good for the field.”

Shirley let out a breath she didn’t know she was holding. She never expected Amy to be so forgiving. It sounded like she was ready to let go of the whole Resonance AI theft.

Still, Shirley wasn’t about to give up. She was determined to pull Amy into her corner, and if possible, get her to join The James Group for good.