The Man Who Waited vs. The Man Who Wasted novel Chapter 16

Jocelyn replied, "Go on."

"I want you to be responsible for all future updates and maintenance. Of course, I will pay you separately for your work. Also..."

His long, elegant fingers pushed a business card across the table.

"If you have time, Ms. Evans, I would like to invite you to visit my company. You are welcome anytime."

Jocelyn glanced at the card.

Vanguard Tech.

In an age where AI was booming, tech companies were popping up everywhere.

Jocelyn was familiar with most of the top tech companies in Northwood City.

This Vanguard Tech, she had never heard of it.

"Our headquarters are in Austin. I only recently expanded to Northwood City. I'm not familiar with the area, so I hope I can count on your guidance in the future, Ms. Evans."

No wonder.

"So you're from Austin, Mr. Vance. Your accent is perfect. I can't hear a hint of a Texan drawl."

"My father hired a language tutor for me when I was very young."

Their shared passion for computers gave them common ground.

The initial awkwardness between them dissipated, and their conversation began to flow smoothly.

After a thorough discussion, Jocelyn was surprised to find that this man was more than just a handsome face.

He not only had a deep understanding of the computer science field but also possessed a long-term vision and analysis of the future AI market.

Jocelyn finally understood the meaning of 'there's always someone better out there'.

How long had it been since she'd had such an exhilarating conversation?

Jocelyn had always been drawn to brilliant minds, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for Julian.

Julian said, "May I ask a bold question?"

Jocelyn smiled knowingly. "Since you and my husband are in the same industry, why didn't I sell this game to him?"

Julian's lips curved into a barely perceptible smile. "You are indeed as clever as they say, Ms. Evans."

Jocelyn took a sip of her tea.

But even the fragrant tea couldn't mask the bitterness in her heart.

"Good things should be owned by those who appreciate them."

Julian's dark eyes flickered, but he didn't press further.

Jocelyn's smile returned. "Besides, when doing business, it's best to avoid dealing with acquaintances. It makes it harder to ask for a high price."

A flood of text messages from Adrian appeared.

[Answer the phone! Jocelyn, you're getting bold!]

[Why didn't you go pick up Claire! What the hell are you doing!]

[Jocelyn! Call me back immediately!]

[Claire still isn't home, and she's not answering her phone. Look at what you've done!]

Jocelyn deleted the messages one by one.

She scoffed.

She's twenty-four years old. What could possibly happen to her?

Jocelyn went to the underground garage to get her car. Another text from Adrian arrived.

[Jocelyn! If anything happens to Claire, you'll be held responsible!]

Jocelyn tossed her phone aside, her heart unmoved.

Screw you and your 'held responsible'.

Even if Claire died, what did it have to do with her?