The Killer Queen ( Noella Briony ) novel Chapter 373

Stirling was utterly baffled! When did he inadvertently snag Yasbel's endorsement deal? The more he thought about it, the fishier it seemed, so he decided to just drop a quick "Hey" and dash off to consult his agent.

Beckett glanced at his watch. "Got an international conference call; gotta jet. Don't wait up for dinner."

Noella coughed softly, tugging at Beckett's sleeve, whispering, "Beckett, about that unexpected kid popping up in my paperwork—it's all sorted now."

The news was news to Freya, who quickly inquired for details. Jasper, ever the dramatist, gave a colorful account. Beckett, originally on his way to catch a flight, paused to listen before setting off again.

Jasper called out, "Beckett, isn't the airport the other way?" "Change of plans, got business stateside."

Jasper: "?" Bailing on business?

...

Returning from a scientific conference, Noella was bombarded with messages—all from labs hunting for her expertise. And Mizar's basic requirement to join their lab was having hair, instantly disqualifying many! The prerequisite of maintaining a hairstyle was a second blow to many researchers.

Elara watched as Noella sifted through her messages, the evening breeze gently caressing her face. Despite her youth, she exuded a strategic calm that was beyond her years—a natural leader in her own right. It was as if Noella was born for this! How had she never noticed before? The aura of calm authority that Noella possessed was something only true leaders had.

Back at the Schnabel residence, Marcel called Noella away. In the study, the fragrance of tea filled the air as Marcel brewed a pot, his hands skillfully preparing the drink. "This was your grandmother's favorite blend. Give it a try." "It's strange, this tea wasn't available for years, but right after you came home, your dad suddenly found some!"

There was more to Noella's return than just tea. "It's delightful—a truly fine tea." Sipping the tea, Noella understood Marcel had more on his mind. He looked at his granddaughter, her every move reminiscent of Harriet Lambert. The past lingered in her shadow.

"Noella, I... owe you and your grandmother an apology. I met your grandmother at Polaris Star." "I was stationed on the frontier, and Polaris Star's security clearance was beyond me. Your grandmother sneaked me in for a visit." Recalling those moments brought a wistful smile to Marcel's face. "Though a lab might not be the most romantic spot, for me, it's where I hold the warmest memories!"

"I called you here to say, whoever signed off on Polaris Star had higher clearance than I did, but they're retired now. If you face any troubles, come to me." Noella nodded in understanding. "I thought you'd ask me to leave Polaris Star."

Marcel chuckled, his gaze softening with affection. "Leaving Polaris Star wouldn't stop your crew from following you. It's all the same under a different name as long as you're aware." Marcel knew Noella well enough. He refilled her cup. "This is about your engagement to Palmer. What are your thoughts? You're young, no rush to decide who you want to spend your life with."