**When the Stars Forgot to Return My Wishes**
**Chapter 230**
As Simon moved through the circle, he greeted each individual with a practiced smile, his gaze deliberately skimming past Autumn as if she were nothing more than a shadow on the wall.
Autumn had become accustomed to this behavior over time; the sting of his disregard had dulled, yet a small flicker of disappointment still ignited within her chest, a reminder of her unfulfilled hopes.
It was as if the universe conspired to highlight her isolation. Just then, when David Cowell posed a question to the group, Ethan, who had been observing the subtle tension, shifted in his seat. With a gentle motion, he directed his hand towards Autumn, as if to summon her from the depths of invisibility.
“Mr. Cowell,” Ethan began, his voice steady and clear, “Autumn is one of our core engineers. You should definitely engage her in conversation—I’m confident she can offer you significant insights.”
The attention of the entire circle pivoted towards Autumn, including Simon’s gaze, which bore a weight of skepticism that made her skin crawl. She could feel the unspoken doubts swirling around her like a thick fog. They didn’t believe in her capabilities, and she was acutely aware that proving herself would be a formidable challenge.
Especially since she had chosen to keep her true identity cloaked in secrecy. Yet, despite the hurdles that loomed ahead, she resolved not to let them deter her spirit.
With a quick glance at Simon, she leaned closer to Ethan, her lips barely moving as she whispered a few strategic words.
Ethan nodded, an understanding glimmer in his eyes, and then he confidently addressed the very question that David had posed, weaving in her insights without giving away the depth of her knowledge.
To Simon, Autumn’s quiet interjection appeared to be a calculated affront. Just the previous night, he had warned her against becoming too entangled in Ethan’s world, yet here she was, seemingly relishing her place beside him in full view of their peers.
It struck him as a waste of his efforts; he had no intention of concerning himself with her choices any longer.
As Luna and Julian approached, they caught the tail end of Ethan’s endorsement of Autumn. A flicker of annoyance crossed Luna’s features, but it was quickly masked by her practiced composure as she noticed the uncertainty etched on the faces around them.
To everyone else, Autumn was merely a pretty face with little substance behind it. No matter how eloquently Ethan praised her, the prevailing sentiment was that no one would take him seriously.
Julian and Luna stepped forward with an air of confidence, exchanging pleasantries with the group in a seamless manner.
She had anticipated a hint of embarrassment from Autumn, but to her surprise, Autumn appeared unfazed. Instead, she was engaged in a lively discussion with Ethan, seamlessly shifting the focus away from herself.
Luna realized she had underestimated her.
Rather than stumble over unfamiliar territory, Autumn navigated the conversation with Ethan, effortlessly avoiding any awkwardness that might have arisen.
Before long, Luna found herself too engrossed in the technical discussions with the executives, who were eager to hear her insights.
She slipped into her element with grace, responding to each inquiry with a confidence that radiated from her.
Watching his sister bask in the spotlight, Simon felt a swell of pride rise within him, mingled with an unexpected admiration for her poise and expertise.

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