Everything Taken I Left to Become CEO (Darcy and Zane) novel Chapter 15

**TITLE: Pain Refines the Soul — Jason Brooks**

**Chapter 15: Stalling for Time**

Jethro reclined in his chair, crossing his long legs with a casual air. “Everything is progressing smoothly. We’ll continue to support your lab this year. At the very least, you’ll have access to all the graphics cards you could possibly need.”

The prices of graphics cards had been soaring for years, a trend that didn’t seem to be slowing down. Alistair’s lab, known for its demanding computational needs, relied heavily on the funding from Quest University, which unfortunately couldn’t cover all expenses. The backing from the Blackwood Group was not just helpful; it was essential for the lab’s survival and success.

A wave of relief washed over Alistair. He felt a surge of gratitude and wanted to express his appreciation. “That tech company of yours—if you ever find yourself in need of assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. The master’s and PhD students under my supervision are incredibly talented.”

Stratagem Tech’s focus was perfectly aligned with the expertise of his students in financial engineering. It was an ideal partnership waiting to happen.

Jethro, however, merely smiled, his expression hinting at something more. “Not at the moment, thank you. I recently brought someone on board who is quite exceptional. I have high hopes that she’ll steer the company in the right direction very soon.”

“Oh? And who might this remarkable individual be?” Alistair’s curiosity piqued, his mind racing with possibilities.

“I’ll make the introductions another time. I’m certain you’ll find her impressive.” Jethro’s smile deepened, a flicker of warmth lighting his eyes as he thought of Darcy.

Alistair stroked his chin thoughtfully. “A woman?”

“Yes,” Jethro confirmed, his voice steady.

“Do you have feelings for her?” Alistair pressed, his interest growing.

“… ‘Appreciate’ would be a more fitting description,” Jethro replied, carefully choosing his words.

“If you’re open to the idea, I suggest you spend some time with her. It’s been nine years since you and Jocelyn parted ways.”

At this, a shadow crossed Jethro’s face, his smile faltering ever so slightly. Memories of the past stirred within him, but he quickly redirected the conversation. “So it’s settled then. I’ll pick you and Aunt Seren up tomorrow at noon.”

As he stood to leave, Alistair hesitated, rubbing his hands together nervously. “Will… will the grandparents be joining us?”

In his younger days, Alistair had been the black sheep of the Reed family. While others pursued lucrative careers in business, he had chosen the path of academia and research, a decision that had sparked countless heated arguments with his parents. The rift in their relationship had grown wider over the years, leading to infrequent visits.

He had long since stopped returning to the Reed Manor during the holidays, opting instead to send gifts through his nephew. Despite the family’s considerable wealth, Alistair and his wife preferred the simplicity of their modest faculty housing.

Jethro’s voice broke through his thoughts. “Don’t worry. They won’t be coming.”

Alistair visibly relaxed at this news, a weight lifting from his shoulders.

He adjusted his glasses, a thoughtful look crossing his face. “Tomorrow at noon, my students are throwing a small birthday gathering for me as well. I told them I’d only be able to stop by for a little while. How about this: you take me to their event first? I’ll say a few words, and then we can head to the restaurant.”

“Sounds like a plan,” Jethro replied, nodding in agreement.

The following day, as noon approached, Bram scanned the private room with growing impatience. His eyes darted around, searching for any sign of Darcy.

He glanced at his phone, noting that Alistair would be arriving soon.

What’s going on with Darcy? Is she really going to stand me up again?

It had taken considerable effort to convince Alistair to attend, and Bram had even teased him with the promise of a surprise. If Darcy didn’t show up, it would feel like a missed opportunity, a disappointment that loomed large in his mind.

Pushing aside his worry, Bram stood up and placed a colorful birthday hat atop Alistair’s head. He encouraged him to blow out the candles on the cake, making a wish in the process.

Alistair feigned protest, calling the act childish, but he couldn’t help but indulge his students, their excitement contagious.

After thanking them and reminding them about upcoming research project deadlines, Alistair prepared to leave.

Bram quickly sliced a piece of cake and handed it to him. “Prof. Reed, have a slice of cake before you go.”

The other students chimed in enthusiastically, “Yes, please! Have some cake! It’s from the latest trendy place.”

With a resigned smile, Alistair accepted the slice from Bram, chatting amiably with his students as he savored the cake.

Five more minutes slipped by, and Alistair stood up again, ready to make his exit. This time, Bram was quicker, serving him a piece of steak.

“Prof. Reed, you must try the steak here. It’s even better than what Mrs. Reed makes!”

Everyone knew how much Alistair relished meat. He often praised his wife’s cooking to his students and frequently invited them over for hearty meals.

Bram’s unusual behavior today began to raise Alistair’s suspicions.

What’s going on with this kid? He’s acting strangely.

Of all his students, Bram was typically the most mature and observant. His actions today were decidedly out of character.

Still, Alistair took a bite of the steak, savoring the flavor, but a nagging feeling lingered in the back of his mind.