Caught Him Cheating My Life Restarted (Natalie) novel Chapter 181

Marie was gritting her teeth in frustration. These research types really were dense, so infuriatingly rigid.

"You're not wrong, but our child isn't just any child, is he? He admires science, and you're his idol. Don't you think the social climate is terrible right now? Most kids worship celebrities. Having a researcher as their idol is the kind of positive influence we need."

"There are many ways to spread a positive influence in the world. A child's birthday party is just another way for you upper-class folks to show off. I won't be a part of it."

Patrick's brow furrowed. A million dollars for an appearance—one could only imagine how extravagant this party would be. Why would he encourage such a toxic trend?

Just as Patrick was about to hang up, he heard Marie's urgent voice.

"Mr. Mercer, please don't hang up. We've met before, at the mathematics competition hosted by the International Mathematical Union. I was one of the winners. Although I didn't pursue a career in research afterward, I've worked hard to cultivate my son, and he's won several national awards. If someone hadn't sabotaged him, he would have been selected for the Project IronMind Junior Division and become your student."

"What's his name?"

"Hanley. He's Darren Cross's son, from the Cross Group."

Patrick clearly froze for a few seconds. The Cross Group? So that child was *her* child.

"I understand. I'll be there."

With that, Patrick hung up the phone.

Her assistant asked, "Ms. Ward, how did it go? Did Patrick agree to come?"

Marie replied, "Of course he did."

"You're brilliant, Ms. Ward," the assistant said. "You're so persuasive. I'm truly in awe of you."

"Naturally. You should know who you're dealing with."

Marie's eyes glinted with triumph. There was no one she couldn't win over.

Soon, she would make sure everyone saw their happy little family of three.

***

The next day.

He really had become the youngest academician of Aurelis.

Years ago, she had also been a member of the Helios Institute for Advanced Minds. Patrick was her senior and had been very kind and protective of her.

But then her father had repeatedly caused scenes at the institute, and she'd had no choice but to withdraw.

Later, it was Patrick who convinced the other mentors to let her return.

She still remembered the day he had excitedly told her that he'd persuaded everyone and she could come back. But instead, she had told him she was getting married.

She would never forget the desolate look on his face that day. He had smiled bitterly and said, "I fought to get this chance for you, but you're choosing to get married instead."

Natalie felt a deep pang of guilt, but she had already been pregnant at the time.

They lost contact after that. He went abroad to pursue his research, and over the years, she had only heard his name in the news.

His star had risen higher and higher, and she was truly happy for him.