Evening, at the most luxurious hotel in Mystia City, this was the venue for the technical exchange banquet between cities.
In this era, the development of science and technology was a focal point for many, carrying hopes of a revolutionary breakthrough that could transform the world and propel humanity toward a more advanced future. Under Louis's leadership, even the Adonis family had invested heavily in this field.
It was undeniable: anyone capable of creating a groundbreaking and practical invention would undoubtedly become a globally influential figure. As a result, scientists garnered a certain level of respect from society. Esteemed scientists, in particular, were highly sought after, with even the wealthiest individuals willing to spend fortunes to lure them into their companies.
Yet, amidst the prominent scientists—many with white hair or none—stood Alice, a young woman so strikingly youthful that she was often overlooked.
People didn't associate her with being a scientist when she appeared here. Instead, they focused on another aspect of her identity—something more suitable as a topic of light-hearted gossip over dinner.
"Doctor, don't worry! I'll protect you!" A tall but somewhat lanky young man stood before Alice, his expression serious as he spoke.
This was Alex, a newly graduated intern in Alice's laboratory. Despite his recent entry into the field, his knowledge and research potential had already caught the attention of many. Ultimately, he became Alice's assistant, though his inexperience was evident.
However, Alice couldn't deny his capabilities. The problem was that while Alex was brilliant in research, he was somewhat naïve when it came to interpreting the gazes and intentions of others.
At the very least, at this moment, Alex didn't realize that the guests were looking at Alice with skepticism and disdain as if watching a show for their amusement. On the other hand, Alex mistakenly thought they were harboring ill intentions simply because Alice was too beautiful.
Alice sighed. Looking at Alex's oblivious demeanor, she said, "Professor Eslite should be arriving soon. Why don't you go wait for him outside?"
Alex's eyes lit up with excitement as he heard this. "Really? Really? Then I'll meet him! But will you be alright by yourself? If anyone bothers you, call me!"
Though his words expressed concern for Alice, his legs seemed unable to resist, already moving toward the door. Indeed, in this era, it was rare to find a scientist who wasn't infatuated with Professor Eslite, a pioneer in era-defining research.
Alice waved dismissively. "I'll be fine. Just go."
Almost as soon as she finished speaking, Alex's figure had vanished.
Alice: "…"
She could feel it clearly—once Alex left, the guests' gazes on her became even bolder and more unabashed.
During her year with Louis, she had attended many such events alongside him. She was familiar with the way others looked at her. Back then, she had never cared. But now that she and Louis were divorced, she didn't want to attract unnecessary attention to herself or those she associated with.
As this thought crossed Alice's mind, a few mocking voices arose from a distance.
"Oh my, this is the first time I've seen her attend a party without Louis by her side. Haha, maybe he's so fed up with her that he doesn't want her clinging to him anymore?"
"That's the case. I don't think Louis has even arrived yet. I'm sure the moment he does, she'll latch onto him again."
"But I heard that Miss Maya is back. She might be coming here with Louis tonight. It'd be shameless and embarrassing if Alice still clings to him."
Amid the chatter, one person seemed confused. "But Alice is Louis's wife…"
However, that person's voice was quickly drowned out by the others.
"Speaking of which, Alice is quite beautiful."
"True, but her mind isn't all that sharp. All she knows is how to fall in love. If Louis ever dumps her, maybe I could have fun with her." Someone sighed, speaking as if granting a favor.
He didn't notice the sudden silence around him. Confused, he glanced at the others as if asking why they had stopped talking. "What's wrong? What's with your eyes? Why do they keep twitching?" He failed to recognize the warning glances from his companions.
At that moment, Louis had appeared behind him.
Tall and imposing, his cold, stern face exuded authority. His gaze fixed on the gossiping man as if he were a piece of trash disrupting a lavish banquet.
Finally, Louis spoke, his icy voice cutting through the air like a blade:
"You said… you want to 'have some fun with her'?"
The gossiping man flinched violently. Spinning around, he saw Louis standing behind him. He was so terrified that he nearly fainted. Everyone knew that, even if Louis didn't love Alice, she was still his wife in name. Louis would never tolerate anyone defiling what was his.
The man hastily forced a sycophantic smile, shaking his head frantically. "N-No, Sir Louis… I misspoke…"
Louis narrowed his eyes, his voice dropping ominously. "It seems this party isn't very welcoming to me, right?"
At this moment, the banquet host, having heard about the situation, rushed over. Hearing Louis's words, he quickly responded, "No, of course not! We are honored to have you here. Security escorted this rude guest out immediately. Not just anyone is allowed into this party!"
Before the gossiping man could say much more, security guards approached and dragged him out. He seemed to want to plead, but the guards didn't allow him the chance to cause further trouble.
The entire venue fell into an unnervingly awkward silence. Everyone understood that the man was finished. Not only had he lost the chance to network at such an important event, but Louis would undoubtedly make his life difficult from now on. With his power and influence, it was only a matter of time before the man's downfall was complete.
Nobody dared to utter another word.
Meanwhile, standing just behind Louis, Maya lowered her head to hide her face, which had twisted in rage.
Why? Louis and Alice were already divorced! What was this attitude of his? Could it be that he liked Alice?
Impossible!