Chapter 3 No.3

The breakfast table was set with fine china and crisp linens, a testament to the Emerson family's refined taste. Malcolm Emerson, patriarch and CEO of Emerson Industries, sat at the head, sipping his coffee.

"Benjamin, I've been reviewing the quarterly reports," Malcolm said, his voice commanding attention. "Our profits are up, but I believe we can optimize our investments further."

Benjamin nodded, his expression intent. "I agree, Father. I've been analyzing the market trends, and I think diversifying our portfolio will yield better returns."

Adeline sat silently, her eyes fixed on her plate, her mind elsewhere. She had been waiting for an opportunity to bring up her research trip, but her father and brother's business discussion showed no signs of abating.

"I want you to review the Johnson account, Benjamin," Malcolm continued. "Their proposal has potential, but I need you to ensure it aligns with our strategic goals."

"Yes, Father," Benjamin replied. "I'll review it today and provide my assessment."

Adeline's frustration grew. She needed to ask permission for her research trip, but the conversation seemed endless. Her father's rules were clear: no travel without explicit approval.

"And Benjamin, I want you to accompany me to the investor meeting next week," Malcolm said.

Benjamin nodded. "Of course, Father."

Adeline's chance to speak slipped further away. She cleared her throat, attempting to interrupt, but her father didn't notice.

"Excuse me," Adeline said softly, but her voice was drowned out by Malcolm's continued discussion with Benjamin.

The business talk flowed like a river, leaving Adeline stranded on the banks, unable to cross. Her research trip, her passion project, hung in the balance, awaiting permission that seemed increasingly elusive.

Malcolm Emerson's phone rang, shrill in the morning silence. He stood up, apologizing to Benjamin. "Excuse me, son. I need to take this."

As Malcolm turned to leave, Adeline seized the opportunity, her voice barely above a whisper. "Father, may I speak with you for a moment?"

Malcolm halted, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Make it quick, Adeline. I have an important call."

Benjamin's gaze shifted to his sister, curiosity etched on his face.

Adeline's heart quickened. She had rehearsed this moment, but her words still trembled. "I... need permission to go on a research trip. It's for my thesis, and—"

Malcolm's expression turned stern. "Adeline, we've discussed this. Your focus should be on your family responsibilities, not academic pursuits."

Adeline's determination faltered, but she pressed on. "This trip is crucial to my research, Father. It's just for a few weeks, and—"

Benjamin intervened, his tone measured. "Father, perhaps we should hear her out. Adeline's been working hard on her thesis."

Malcolm's gaze lingered on Benjamin before returning to Adeline. "Very well. I'll listen. But make your case convincing, Adeline. Time is money, and I won't have our family's resources wasted."

Adeline took a deep breath, steeling herself for the challenge ahead.

Malcolm Emerson nodded curtly and stepped away, his phone pressed to his ear. The conversation was dismissed.

Adeline's face fell, frustration and disappointment etching her features. She slumped back in her chair, her eyes welling up.

Benjamin's expression softened. He reached out, covering her hand with his. "Hey, don't worry. You'll get your chance."

Adeline's voice trembled. "It's always the same. He never listens."

Benjamin's grip tightened. "I'll talk to him later, okay? You work hard and get everything ready. I'll make sure he understands."

A glimmer of hope sparked in Adeline's eyes. She smiled faintly, her shoulders relaxing.

"Thanks, Ben," she whispered.

Benjamin smiled back, his eyes crinkling. "That's what big brothers are for."

The tension dissipated, replaced by a warm sense of camaraderie.

Adeline's gaze lingered on Benjamin's, gratitude swelling in her chest.

Adeline's smile grew, a subtle curve of her lips. Benjamin's reassurance was all she needed.

"I'll get everything ready," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Benjamin nodded, releasing her hand. "I'll handle Father. You focus on your trip."

Adeline's eyes sparkled, anticipation building. She pushed her chair back, her movements fluid.

"I'll go pack," she said, her voice filled with renewed purpose.

Benjamin chuckled. "You're that sure, huh?"

Adeline's grin widened. "I trust you, Ben."

With a spring in her step, Adeline left the breakfast room, her heart soaring.

The research trip, once uncertain, now felt within reach.

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Adeline's hands moved swiftly, packing clothes and books into her suitcase. Her mind wandered, Sebastian's smile flashing before her eyes.

She remembered their chance encounter at the university library, their shared laughter, and the spark of connection.

Adeline's heart quickened, her pulse racing. She hadn't expected to feel this way.

As she folded a sweater, her thoughts drifted to the research trip. Sebastian would be there, and the prospect sent chills down her spine.

What would it be like to spend time with him in the midst of adventure?

Adeline's cheeks flushed. She couldn't deny the excitement.

With each item packed, her anticipation grew. This trip promised more than just academic discovery.

Adeline's hands moved on autopilot, packing her belongings as her mind swirled with thoughts of Sebastian. His piercing eyes, chiseled features, and disarming smile dominated her thoughts.

A flutter in her chest, a skip in her heartbeat, and a warmth spreading through her veins – Adeline couldn't deny the sensations. She felt alive, electrified by the prospect of seeing Sebastian again.

Sebastian's room was a sanctuary of knowledge, walls lined with shelves overflowing with books. His desk was a chaos of papers, notes, and open texts. The air was thick with the scent of old books and freshly brewed coffee.

He sat amidst the clutter, his eyes scanning the pages of a worn leather-bound book. His mind raced with connections, theories, and hypotheses.

The research trip loomed, and Sebastian was determined to unravel the mysteries hidden within the ancient texts.

As he scribbled notes, his thoughts drifted to Adeline. Their chance encounter at the library had left an indelible mark.

He recalled her bright smile, infectious laughter, and sharp intellect.

Sebastian's focus wavered, his gaze drifting to the small note on his desk—Adeline's phone number.

He had been tempted to call to discuss their research but hesitated.

Was it too soon?

Sebastian's phone buzzed, breaking the silence. A text from Dr. Lee, confirming the trip's itinerary.

"Leave tomorrow, 8 am sharp. Pack essentials. We'll uncover secrets."

Sebastian's adrenaline surged. Tomorrow couldn't come soon enough.

He refocused on his notes, fueling his excitement.

Little did he know, Adeline was packing her bags, her heart racing with anticipation—and thoughts of him.

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