Finn followed Irene into the building as he said, "I'm not too sure myself, but he's refusing to put his signature on the agreement, even though he agreed to sign it earlier!"
Before Irene left for Franconia, she had made the acquaintance of Professor Lowe thanks to Professor Novsky's introduction.
Since Professor Lowe had the technical ability to cut the foil down to 0.03 mm, Irene was going to commission him for his work.
While it would even be more ideal if he joined them, Irene had made the offer, and Professor Lowe agreed earlier that he would take the job.
And now, he seemed to be reneging on that agreement, which left Irene frowning.
"Is he here right now?" she asked.
"Yeah, he actually just arrived to see you. I've asked him to wait at the conference room."
Irene started striding in that direction, and opened the door instantly the instant she reached it.
The vast room was empty save for one person in a chair—seeing that Irene was standing at the door, Professor Lowe rose to his feet.
Still, Irene remained calm and composed.
"Finn? Get us something to drink, please," she said, and entered the conference room with a smile. "Sorry to keep you waiting—I was held up. Please, sit."
Professor Lowe was not at all old.
Sporting a pair of black-rimmed glasses, he did not appear to be a day older than forty and had the air of someone cultured and slightly conservative.
He was quite candid as well. "Director Spencer, I've come personally to meet you to apologize… but I have to turn down your commission."
Irene sat down and asked, "Why? Do I not pay you enough? I can add more money if that's what you need."
Professor Lowe shook his head. "I'm sorry."
Irene held his gaze for several heartbeats and said, "I don't think you're the type of person to break promises, and it may be very likely that you're in trouble and were forced to turn me down. Why don't you take your time and tell me about it? I'll see if I can help."
Professor Lowe was actually surprised by Irene's sudden offer and was actually drawn to it for a moment.
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