Better Late, But Never His Again novel Chapter 63

Just as Hazel was about to shut down her computer, a soft knock echoed from the door. She looked up to see Zack Miller, a junior researcher, leaning half his body into the room with an excited grin. "Dr. Garrison, someone's here for you."

Hazel blinked in surprise, then closed her laptop and stood up. The moment she stepped into the hallway, she saw a group of people standing there. They were dressed in sharp, tailored suits, exuding an air of corporate professionalism that screamed big business.

She recognized them instantly: the team from Apex Holdings.

A crowd had already gathered. Evelyn was there too, her face looking incredibly sour. Queenie, however, was beaming and waved her over.

"There you are. This is Assistant Alden. He's looking for you."

Hazel walked over, her gaze landing on the man in charge. Assistant Alden was wearing an impeccably tailored navy suit, his hair neatly slicked back, and a professional, practiced smile on his face.

He gave a slight bow, his demeanor perfectly polite and measured. "Dr. Garrison, you've likely heard that Apex recently launched a new research division. We're looking to bring on two top-tier talents from your facility."

Hazel nodded. "I've heard. How can I help you?"

Alden's smile widened, a touch of genuine respect entering his voice. "Mr. Thornton sent me. He asked me to formally invite you to join us."

A dead silence fell over the hallway. Hazel was stunned. "Invite me?"

Evelyn's face immediately contorted in anger, her nails digging harshly into her palms. She couldn't believe Hazel had managed to hook Marcus Thornton. Even Julian had to show Marcus respect. What right did Hazel have?

Alden chuckled politely. "Yes, exactly. It is an invitation. Mr. Thornton specifically requested Dr. Garrison."

Murmurs broke out behind them. Someone whispered, "When he says Dr. Garrison, does he mean our new Dr. Vance? Did Mr. Alden get the names mixed up?"

Queenie sighed, looking at her with a mix of heartache and profound pride. "The Institute isn't what it used to be. If you go there, it'll be far better for your career than staying here."

Hazel shook her head. "This is where my dreams started. I don't want to leave, and I don't want to leave you here alone."

Queenie grabbed her hands and gave them a comforting squeeze. "Hazel, they're doing the exact same research we are. Don't look at this as a betrayal. We are scientists; our goal is the greater good. Mr. Thornton isn't just asking for you. He wants you to bring your expertise and our project to a place with better resources."

She met Hazel's eyes, her gaze maternal and warm. "I support you. I know how big your ambitions are. This little place can't hold you forever. When their new institute takes off, all the sacrifices I've made here won't have been for nothing."

Hazel's eyes instantly welled up. The Institute might have seen better days, but it was still legendary—something Marcus Thornton's corporate machine couldn't replicate.

But she knew Queenie was pushing her to explore bigger opportunities, reassuring her that this place would always be her safety net. Sniffling, she managed a smile. "Okay, Professor. I'll do it."