The One He Dismissed Became The One He Died For novel Chapter 198

The university president immediately piled on the flattery. "Dr. Zimmerman, your wife is truly a woman of unparalleled beauty and intellect."

"You two are a remarkably perfect match."

Miles nodded, his eyes never leaving Claire. "That laboratory funding grant you applied for through Zimmerman Corporation? You can sign the paperwork tomorrow."

"Oh..." The president blanked for a second before snapping back to reality. "Thank you, Mr. Zimmerman! I mean—thank you, Mrs. Zimmerman!"

After the lecture concluded, the students began filing out.

Quentin looked at Claire, his eyes slightly red as he nodded with immense pride and emotion.

"Claire, you spoke brilliantly. I knew I wasn't wrong about you. You are going to put Artisanal Silk Embroidery on the global map."

Quentin glanced around, offering a bit of grandfatherly concern. "Did Jefferson not come with you? You two were the golden couple back on campus, practically joined at the hip."

Miles was standing just inside the entrance, hearing every single word. His lips pressed into a thin line, the pride he felt moments ago instantly curdling.

His fingers curled into fists at his sides as he waited for her response.

"Professor, Jefferson and I broke up. I'm actually married now."

Quentin blinked in surprise. "Well, that boy clearly didn't realize how lucky he was. But that's alright, marriage is all about finding the right fit. What does your husband do?"

A soft smile touched the corners of her eyes. "He's a doctor. He's incredibly kind and treats me wonderfully."

Quentin couldn't help but sigh. "A doctor is a noble profession, but the hours are brutal. Plus, he wouldn't understand design. It's tough when your partner isn't on the same career wavelength..."

Claire opened her mouth to reply, but the auditorium doors swung fully open.

Miles stepped inside, his strides calm and measured.

"Mr. Zimmerman, you actually read that volume? That was my proudest piece of work, yet the one most heavily ignored by the industry."

"Its value will be recognized eventually," Miles replied, sliding a protective arm around Claire's waist. "Professor, we should get going."

"Wait!" Quentin looked slightly abashed. "Claire, I retract my previous statement. Your husband is more than equipped to walk your career path with you."

Claire winked. "We'll catch up properly when you get back to Empire City, Professor."

"Alright." Quentin smiled and nodded. As he watched the couple walk away, the memory suddenly clicked into place.

Empire University. In his sophomore design seminar.

There had always been a top-tier pre-med student relentlessly auditing his classes in the back row.