Chapter 366

Isabella swiftly signed the termination papers.

The compensation amount was clearly outlined, and she assured them it would be paid within the agreed timeframe.

When Nathaniel received the update, he scoffed. "She doesn't waste any time."

Their legal team handled the remaining formalities. Once the documents were signed, neither Isabella nor Nathaniel gave it another thought.

Three days later, Frederick had a rare break from his busy schedule. Since it had been weeks since they last met, the trio decided to have lunch together.

At noon, Isabella and Nathaniel left the office. As they arrived at the restaurant entrance, they spotted Victoria and Alexander.

Accompanying them was Gregory Thornton, CEO of a competing AI firm.

Gregory and Nathaniel were acquainted through business dealings. They maintained a cordial professional relationship and often exchanged pleasantries when crossing paths.

Spotting Nathaniel first, Gregory initiated the greeting. "Mr. Graves."

Nathaniel didn't even glance at Alexander or Victoria. He simply nodded. "Mr. Thornton."

Gregory was aware that Quantum Innovations had approached him only after severing ties with Visionary Tech.

Observing Nathaniel's cold demeanor toward the other two, Gregory assumed there had been a messy fallout over the contract termination.

Previously, even when Nathaniel appeared distant, Alexander and Victoria would make polite conversation. This time, neither spoke a word to him.

Victoria's gaze held noticeable frost when looking at Nathaniel.

As for Isabella? Victoria still refused to acknowledge her existence.

Not wanting to prolong the awkward encounter, Isabella and Nathaniel quickly excused themselves and entered the restaurant.

Only after the private room door closed behind them did Nathaniel finally speak. "They barely ended things with us and already partnered with DataSphere. Alexander moves fast."

DataSphere Inc. was another industry leader in artificial intelligence development.

Their collaboration fees would undoubtedly dwarf what Visionary Tech had paid.

Isabella poured herself some water. "Their language processing system was unmatched last year. No competitors came close. Of course they'd turn to Gregory."

She took a sip before continuing. "After cutting ties with us, this is their best damage control. DataSphere makes perfect sense."

Nathaniel understood the logic. That only made him more irritated.

His frustration grew as he added, "I'm guessing Alexander covered Quantum's termination fees?"

Isabella remained silent.

Just then, Frederick arrived.

Neither brought up the matter again in his presence. Their messy business dealings weren't appropriate conversation for their mentor.

Their meetings with Frederick typically focused on AI advancements. Since these gatherings were rare, lunch stretched well past two hours.

As they finally left the private room, the adjacent door opened simultaneously.

Alexander, Victoria, and Gregory emerged at the same moment.

Before anyone could speak, Gregory spotted Frederick first. "Professor Aldridge."

Being in the same industry, Gregory recognized the renowned academic.

Frederick acknowledged him with a nod.

Alexander followed with his own greeting, Victoria echoing him. "Professor Aldridge."

Frederick's expression remained impassive.

At that moment, another group rounded the hallway corner and froze upon seeing them - particularly Dominic Fairchild's reaction to Frederick's presence.

Isabella immediately averted her gaze when she noticed Dominic.

Regaining his composure after a glance at Victoria, Dominic addressed Frederick first. "Professor Aldridge."

Frederick gave a slight nod but remained silent.

Dominic then surveyed the group before asking, "Are you all dining together?"

He'd already heard about Visionary Tech and Quantum's split. Rumors suggested Victoria felt Nathaniel lacked commitment to their partnership.

Even without the termination, given Nathaniel's attitude, future conflicts seemed inevitable.

So she'd agreed to end things for long-term stability.

Yet here they were, sharing a meal shortly after the breakup.

Victoria quickly clarified. "We just happened to run into each other."

Dominic smiled knowingly. "I see."

Isabella and Nathaniel had no interest in further conversation with Dominic, Alexander, or Victoria.

Isabella opened her mouth to speak, but Nathaniel beat her to it. "Professor, shall we?"

Frederick nodded and turned to leave when Dominic suddenly stepped forward. "We met recently at the symposium. Do you remember me?"

"I do." Frederick glanced at him. "And?"

Isabella was about to interject when Nathaniel spoke first. "Professor, we should go."

Frederick nodded again, but Dominic - offended by their dismissive attitude toward him, Alexander, and Victoria - blocked their path.

His expression darkened as he said, "Professor Aldridge, my father is Richard Fairchild. We were introduced last month. Surely you recall?"

"I do." Frederick's gaze turned icy. "Your point?"