Isabel hadn't felt this alive since she stepped out of Daniel's shadow. The autumn air was crisp as she made her way to Professor Cole's office, clutching her notebook like a lifeline. Each step through the ivy-clad hallways echoed with possibility—and fear.
She paused at Room 314. The brass nameplate gleamed: Adrian Cole, Ph.D. Swallowing a heartbeat, she knocked.
"Come in." His voice, calm and measured, greeted her even before she opened the door.
Inside, the office was a sanctuary of dark wood shelves stacked with leather-bound volumes. An antique globe sat in one corner; a single window framed the campus quad in gold afternoon light. And there, behind a massive desk, sat Adrian Cole—pen in hand, expression unreadable.
"Ms. Carter," he nodded. "Have a seat."
She lowered herself into the guest chair, legs pressed together. He flipped open a leather portfolio. "You wanted to discuss alternative models for intergenerational wealth transfer."
She pulled out her scribbled notes. "Yes—I've been studying the Cole family trusts you mentioned. I see a way to adapt the model using hybrid equity instruments…"
As she spoke, Adrian watched her. There was a softness in his gaze, a respect—a reaction she wasn't used to receiving from him or anyone. Her pulse fluttered. Words tumbled from her lips, precise and confident, until she noticed his pen paused over the page.
"Impressive," he said, voice low. "Few students propose practical enhancements. You've thought this through."
Heat bloomed in her cheeks. "Thank you. I… I appreciate your feedback."
He closed the portfolio. "Keep working on it. I'll arrange a meeting with the finance department—they might consider piloting your approach."
Her breath caught. "Really?"
He nodded. "But Ms. Carter…" He leaned forward, steepling his fingers. "This will require dedication. I expect you in my office every Tuesday at two, starting next week."
She swallowed hard. "I'll be there."
Later that evening, Isabel found herself in the hushed stillness of the university library. Stacks of economics journals towered above her, the only sound her own breathing. She reached for a volume on corporate governance when a voice whispered beside her.
"May I?"
She looked up into Vanessa Cole's stormy-green eyes. Vanessa's dark hair was pulled into a sleek ponytail; her leather jacket added an edge that contrasted the library's austerity.
"Of course." Isabel stepped aside.
Vanessa slid into the spot. "Thank you." She glanced at Isabel's books. "Interesting selection."
Isabel glanced down. "I'm… working on a proposal for Professor Cole."
Vanessa's lips curved. "Sibling partnership, huh? You're his star pupil?"
A surprise flickered through Isabel. "You know him?"
Vanessa chuckled softly. "I'm Adrian's sister. But don't worry—I'm no nepotism pawn." She closed her book—a portfolio of watercolor sketches. "I'm an art student."
Isabel offered a small smile. "Nice to meet you."
"Likewise. If you need insider tips on the Cole family… well, I might be persuaded." Vanessa winked and rose. "Good luck with your proposal."
As Vanessa walked away, Isabel's heart thudded. That was the first time anyone in Adrian's inner circle had acknowledged her—without disdain.
Late Night, Isabel's Dorm
Isabel lay awake, re-reading her interview notes. Every praise from Adrian felt like oxygen. She pictured Vanessa's wry grin and wondered what secrets her classmates hid—and what Vanessa hid from the world.
Unbidden, she imagined Adrian's hand brushing hers as he returned her papers. The memory of his scent—cedarwood and old books—made her pulse race.
A ping sounded on her phone. A single text from an unknown number:
"Watching you, Ms. Carter."
Her blood ran cold. She twisted her pillow into her arms and hugged it tight.
Daniel was back.
End of Chapter 2