The Year I Stopped Being His novel Chapter 562

"I truly appreciate your and Dr. Hayes' kindness. However—"

"I'll have to decline."

Mildred raised an eyebrow slightly, a hint of surprise in her tone, though she didn't seem offended by the rejection. She asked gently, "Oh? Wasn't getting a master's in psychology what you've always wanted? I remember reading in your application materials—you wanted to specialize in sports psychology to help athletes overcome psychological trauma."

"Yes, that was indeed my dream."

Sloane looked down at the recommendation form. A faint, nostalgic smile touched her lips, as if she were gazing at a beautiful, distant dream from a very long time ago.

Then she looked up. "But I've already decided to take over my father's company. I'll likely step in completely after graduation. Besides—" She paused, her gaze drifting past Mildred to the fresh buds on the ginkgo tree outside the window. "I have something far more important I need to do right now."

Mildred remained silent for a moment, looking at Sloane with a more profound gaze.

She didn't press for details on what that "more important thing" was.

She simply pulled the recommendation form back, tucked it neatly away in her drawer, and looked up with a smile. It was a smile filled with respect, admiration, and the quiet blessing of an elder to the younger generation.

"Alright. I respect your decision."

"Then I wish you... all the best."

*

A few days later, in the CEO's office at Taylor Manufacturing Corp.