She’s Done. He’s Breaking novel Chapter 26

**Chapter 26**

The moment Stella dialed the number, it felt as if time stood still. The ringing echoed in her ears, each tone a reminder of her anxiety.

“Professor Jenkins, do you have any updates regarding Annabeth?” Stella’s voice was laced with urgency, the words tumbling out before she could take a breath.

“Charlie managed to set up an appointment with Scott,” Hayden replied, his tone calm but reassuring. “He’ll be speaking with Tristan tomorrow, so you can put your worries aside for now.”

The mention of Charlie brought a glimmer of relief. Unlike Tristan, Scott had a reputation for being more approachable, a fact that eased some of the tension in Stella’s chest.

“Alright, that sounds good,” she responded, trying to mask her lingering anxiety.

However, when the next day arrived, Hayden was conspicuously absent from the university.

With no immediate tasks left after preparing the teaching materials for the week, Stella felt a restless energy coursing through her. She decided to take a stroll around the campus, hoping that the fresh air would clear her mind before she settled down in the library to delve into some books.

The day unfolded beautifully, with a gentle breeze and the sun casting a warm glow over the campus. After a light lunch, Stella took a moment to relax, soaking in the pleasant atmosphere before making her way to the library.

Inside, she selected two books, her fingers brushing over the spines as she contemplated which would be more enlightening. With her literary treasures in hand, she sought a spot outside to bask in the sunlight. As she wandered, she spotted a familiar figure—a bespectacled elderly gentleman with wispy white hair.

The old man was squinting at a newspaper, holding it at arm’s length as if the words were playing a game of hide-and-seek. He adjusted his glasses repeatedly, frustration evident in his furrowed brow.

Even from afar, Stella recognized him instantly. A wave of nostalgia washed over her, but hesitation crept in. After a brief internal battle, she summoned her courage and approached him. “Mr. Fulton,” she called out softly.

Kieran Fulton looked up, his gaze landing on her. He removed his glasses, peering intently, yet his expression suggested he was struggling to place her.

“It’s me, Mr. Fulton. Stella Roberts,” she clarified, her heart racing as she spoke.

Recognition flickered across his face, and she could see the gears turning in his mind.

Kieran was not just any retired professor; he was the former principal of Justicia University and had been Hayden’s mentor. By the time Stella was studying under Hayden, Kieran had already stepped into retirement, yet he had continued to guide her, inviting her to various academic seminars and encouraging her ambitions. He had once told her that she was one of his most cherished students, second only to Hayden himself.

Years ago, he had even recommended her to esteemed professors at prestigious universities abroad, believing wholeheartedly in her potential for a doctorate. But in a moment of desperation, she had gone behind his back, submitting her resume to Aspica Capital.

The memory of that betrayal stung. She had been so eager to seize the opportunity, fearing she might lose her chance to be with Tristan. It wasn’t until she had successfully navigated the grueling interview process that she had shared the news with Kieran and Hayden. She could still vividly recall the hurt in Kieran’s eyes when he learned of her decision. He had stood up abruptly, leaving her in silence, disappointment radiating from him like a palpable force.

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