How a Dying Woman Rewrote Her Epilogue novel Chapter 553

Elodie nodded.

She turned and noticed that the judges were already seated.

Besides Charlie, several others looked familiar—industry heavyweights, all of them.

The venue was massive, perfectly suited for a technology showcase.

Spectators were gradually filling the seats.

As Elodie headed over, she spotted Jarrod, who had personally escorted Sylvie.

Sylvie’s expression darkened when she saw Watts and Elodie paired together. She didn’t bother with a greeting, just turned to Jarrod and said, “Go on up, Jarrod. I’m fine here, you don’t need to worry.”

Jarrod gave a brief nod.

Elodie barely glanced his way, instead turning to discuss strategy with Watts.

Sylvie cast a wary look at Watts—she respected his skills. But the fact that he seemed interested in Elodie…

A hint of mockery curled at Sylvie’s lips.

Elodie was more resourceful than she’d expected. She hadn’t delivered much in terms of results, but she’d managed to snag the attention of a man. No wonder Jarrod had lost interest.

Sylvie brushed past Elodie with a cold glance and returned to her own team.

Jarrod made his way back to his seat, next to Maurice and Selma.

Joseph Delacroix had been called away on business and wouldn’t make it today. He’d only be here for the big event two days later.

Maurice was practically floored by the scale of today’s competition.

“They’re really pulling out all the stops,” he muttered, impressed by the sheer investment and high standards.

Apart from the organizers, the audience was a mix of industry insiders and investors from various sectors.

Alexander was seated not far away.

He had no interest in empty small talk. His eyes were fixed on the stage.

The competition began.

The first challenge was a live drone stability test under emergency conditions.

For Elodie, it was hardly a challenge—she adjusted parameters on the fly, hitting the perfect mark with ease.

Her hair had slipped loose, tumbling down her neck.

Watts glanced over, stepped up behind her, and without touching her skin, gently gathered her hair and swept it over her shoulder, holding it in place. “Keep going,” he murmured.