Chapter 366

Camille swiftly signed the termination papers.

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

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

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

Three days later, Graham 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, Camille and Gabriel left the office. As they arrived at the restaurant entrance, they spotted Selene and Damien.

Accompanying them was Emmett Maddox, CEO of a competing AI firm.

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

Spotting Gabriel first, Emmett initiated the greeting. "Mr. Ashcroft."

Gabriel didn't even glance at Damien or Selene. He simply nodded. "Mr. Maddox."

Emmett was aware that Nexus Innovations had approached him only after severing ties with Pioneer Systems.

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

Previously, even when Gabriel appeared distant, Damien and Selene would make polite conversation. This time, neither spoke a word to him.

Selene's gaze held noticeable frost when looking at Gabriel.

As for Camille? Selene still refused to acknowledge her existence.

Not wanting to prolong the awkward encounter, Camille and Gabriel quickly excused themselves and entered the restaurant.

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

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

Their collaboration fees would undoubtedly dwarf what Pioneer Systems had paid.

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

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

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

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

Camille remained silent.

Just then, Graham arrived.

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

Their meetings with Graham 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.

Damien, Selene, and Emmett emerged at the same moment.

Before anyone could speak, Emmett spotted Graham first. "Professor Bellamy."

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

Graham acknowledged him with a nod.

Damien followed with his own greeting, Selene echoing him. "Professor Bellamy."

Graham's expression remained impassive.

At that moment, another group rounded the hallway corner and froze upon seeing them - particularly Everett Mercer's reaction to Graham's presence.

Camille immediately averted her gaze when she noticed Everett.

Regaining his composure after a glance at Selene, Everett addressed Graham first. "Professor Bellamy."

Graham gave a slight nod but remained silent.

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

He'd already heard about Pioneer Systems and Quantum's split. Rumors suggested Selene felt Gabriel lacked commitment to their partnership.

Even without the termination, given Gabriel'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.

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

Everett smiled knowingly. "I see."

Camille and Gabriel had no interest in further conversation with Everett, Damien, or Selene.

Camille opened her mouth to speak, but Gabriel beat her to it. "Professor, shall we?"

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

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

Camille was about to interject when Gabriel spoke first. "Professor, we should go."

Graham nodded again, but Everett - offended by their dismissive attitude toward him, Damien, and Selene - blocked their path.

His expression darkened as he said, "Professor Bellamy, my father is Marcus Mercer. We were introduced last month. Surely you recall?"

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