Substitute Wife, Genius CEO novel Chapter 136

An old friend sitting next to Harrison saw right through Lily's intentions and teased with a smile, "Harrison, Lily here is an excellent prospect. Her presentation this morning was stellar. The fact that she's willing to share some of her patent's source code for public study shows a level of open-mindedness and ambition most people simply don't have. You've always cherished great talent, so don't let this one slip by."

Harrison, of course, recognized exactly what Lily was angling for. Since she hadn't stated it outright, it would have been awkward for him to reject her to her face.

His friend's comment actually did him a massive favor. Harrison feigned a headache and sighed, "Miller, you know perfectly well I just took on a new, junior student. I don't have the energy to guide another newcomer. Since you think so highly of Lily's talent, why don't you take her under your wing?"

He had reviewed Lily's resume long ago. It was exactly as she described—competing in tournaments from a young age, winning countless awards, diving deep into her field while studying abroad, and even securing a patent.

He admitted she was quite exceptional, but her character was rotten. He wanted nothing to do with her.

More importantly, Summer was his student. If he took Lily in, where would that leave Summer?

He had to protect his own student's peace of mind.

Professor Miller glared at Harrison. "You know damn well my research focus isn't in her exact field, yet you're purposely trying to annoy me. Otherwise, you think you'd even have a shot at her?" Who wouldn't want to mentor a highly gifted student? It was a massive point of pride.

Harrison rubbed his thinning hair with a deeply troubled look on his face. "Who's trying to annoy you? That bratty student of mine gives me enough headaches as it is."

Seeing that Harrison's distress seemed entirely genuine, and that he truly had no intention of taking Lily on, Professor Miller was surprised. After all, a talent like hers was a rare find.

There was no way Lily missed the underlying meaning of Harrison's words—he had zero interest in her and wasn't going to take her as a student.

She grit her teeth, forcing herself to maintain a natural, poised smile.

Harrison acted as if he had only just noticed Lily was still holding her teacup up in the air. He smiled. "As the honorary principal, I am incredibly happy that Empire State University produced such an outstanding student. I hope you continue to work hard and face any future challenges without fear."

With that, Harrison lifted his own cup, clinked it against hers, and drained it in one gulp.

Xavier knew full well that this kind of thing couldn't be rushed. Heavyweights like Harrison carried a profound sense of pride in their bones.

He shot Lily a subtle glance. No matter how anxious she felt, she had no choice but to smile, agree politely, and try her hardest to leave a lasting good impression.

He was still utterly convinced that Summer would never actually go through with the divorce.

Her recent behavior—a total 180 from her previously gentle, submissive image—was just a cheap tactic to exploit a man's curiosity and rebellious nature.

She was using a massive personality shift to grab Xavier's attention and seduce him.

It was exactly like a line out of a cheesy romance novel: Woman, you have successfully captured my attention.

He was certain Summer was still completely obsessed.

Xavier stood tall, one hand slipped casually into his pocket. His cold eyes radiated a deep sense of irritation. "What are you doing here?"

Jude let out a mocking laugh. "Some people just love to act like peacocks strutting their feathers, flattering themselves to death. Do you honestly think the entire world revolves around you?"