She Quit Her Family and Found Herself novel Chapter 144

Dr. Atherton's arrival sent massive shockwaves through the venue.

Ever since his health failed and he officially retired from active duty, he had practically vanished from the public eye.

Countless people desperately wanted an audience with him, yet none were given the chance.

Rumor had it that his condition was incredibly fragile, requiring strict medication regimens. A sudden medical emergency could strike at any moment, and without a specialized medical team on standby, it could quickly become fatal.

Because of this, Dr. Atherton had spent the last several years permanently residing at the sanitarium.

No one expected him to personally attend today's product launch!

"Even Dr. Atherton is here. The rumors must be true—the newly appointed R&D director really is his favorite protégé."

"So he came out here personally to show his support!"

"Who's the young man with him?"

"I think that's Caspian Sterling, Bertram Sterling's adopted son. He recently returned from abroad and is the current CEO of Trident Corporation."

"Wait, is Trident joining the public bid too?"

"Haven't heard anything about that. I think they're just here for the launch."

Standing near the aisle, Herbert and his team watched the two men enter. After the initial shock faded, excitement set in.

Herbert, in particular, was ecstatic. He had never dreamed he would actually get to see Dr. Atherton in person today.

He had struggled just to get a brief meeting with Dr. Lowe, who eventually blocked his number entirely.

He hadn't even had the chance to meet the new R&D director yet.

As for Dr. Atherton, Herbert hadn't even dared to imagine it.

Caspian's eyes darkened. "She won't," he said with absolute certainty. "She's incredibly strong."

As they spoke, a figure began making his way toward them.

Seeing someone approach, Dr. Atherton cut off the conversation. A polite, professional smile formed on his lips.

Then, Caspian casually muttered, "That's Hulda's ex-husband."

The polite smile vanished from Dr. Atherton's face before it even fully formed.

Approaching with Sylvie and the bespectacled executive in tow, Herbert clearly saw the shift in the older man's expression.

One second the legend was smiling, and the next, his face was stone-cold.

Though utterly confused, Herbert maintained his professional composure and braced himself as he stepped forward. "Dr. Atherton, it is an absolute honor. I am Herbert Jewell from H&J Technologies. I am thrilled to attend the institute's launch today and incredibly honored to meet you."