Most of the people present, like Jorge and Miles, assumed that Celeste only got to know Zachary and Nadine because of Matthias. 6
Especially since tonight, both Matthias’s parents and Ivan, with his wife, were in attendance. 3
When everyone saw Matthias’s parents and the Rodriguez couple greeting each other warmly and familiarly, almost like family already, it only reinforced that assumption.
Kieran’s arrival didn’t draw much attention. (4)
Watching the chatter around him about Celeste and Matthias, he still believed the two weren’t in that kind of relationship. (1)
As for Zachary, with Celeste’s talent, it wouldn’t be surprising if he had already taken her on as his student. (3
Right now, Matthias was the most sought–after bachelor in their circles.
The Rodriguez family had no real standing in Baumond’s upper–class society, and many found it hard to believe he would really settle for Celeste. 4
While some felt a little sour about it, most didn’t take her too seriously. 1
What did stand out, though, was how several heads of major corporations in the country were all showing her great respect. 6
After greeting Zachary and Nadine, they deliberately sought out chances to speak with Celeste.
Others might not understand, but as giants in the tech industry, they knew very well just how capable Celeste was.
From their evaluations, her ability was not far off from Matthias’s.
The fact that Yoda Vision had grown so quickly and so steadily in just half a year was in no small part thanks to her.
If they could poach Celeste, it would almost be like gaining half of YodaVision itself. 3
“Ms. Rodriguez, it’s been a while–do you still remember me? We met not long ago. I’ve been following the two projects Yoda Vision has been working on recently. The ideas and potential are truly impressive. I heard both projects were spearheaded by you?
“Mr. Yoder is already young and brilliant, but with someone as outstanding as you holding the fort, one can’t help but envy him.”
After that, he asked with curiosity, “Someone with your AI expertise is exactly what our company is
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lacking. Why did you choose Yoda Vision back then instead of us? Was there something about our company you found lacking?” 1
Seeing several big names in the business world approach Celeste one after another, and all with such warmth, made Jorge frown. 2
He was aware of YodaVision’s recent progress.
And yes, Celeste had made quite a name for herself in AI. In fact, word had spread that Matthias’s girlfriend was nearly as accomplished in the field as he was.
But was she really that capable? 3
Businessmen never moved without profit.
If people who were certainly no pushovers were lowering themselves to make overtures to her, that spoke volumes.
Celeste being talented might well be true. But as for her character, Jorge couldn’t say he admired it. 5
That thought immediately made him think of Wynn. He glanced over at her. 6
Tonight’s banquet was a grand affair. After all, Zachary almost never appeared at such functions.
And here, with him and Nadine, along with Matthias and Celeste, the four of them were the undeniable
center of attention. 2
Celeste had undeniably stolen the spotlight tonight. 7
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Meanwhile, Wynn stood alone. Trevor and Beck weren’t by her side. She looked somewhat lonely and downcast, her mood clearly not great. 10
Given how Celeste was being celebrated for her talent, it wasn’t surprising that Wynn, who had been trampled by Celeste, would feel disheartened. (7)
Seeing this, Jorge quickly started walking toward Wynn. 9
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