Chapter 72
A chill ran down Stewart and Charlene's spines. Stewart quickly said, "We're already developing a new product line. We should have samples ready by next year." Kenton responded coldly, "Uh-huh. Don't come to see me again until it's done."
"Yes, Professor Wagner," Charlene and Stewart replied.
"Send me a review tonight," Kenton added.
They instantly realized he meant a technical summary of the exhibition entries. They nodded. "Yes, sir."
As the conversation ended, Stewart ventured, "Professor Wagner, completing it tonight might be challenging." It was nearly impossible, considering the vast array of exhibits and the detailed analysis required—thousands of words. How could they summarize it all in a single night?
Kenton fixed them with a look. Despite his gentle demeanor, his gaze was unwavering. Stewart straightened. "Got it. We'll get it done!" Charlene was speechless.
Their conversation concluded. Kenton then turned to Charlene.
She straightened. "Professor Wagner."
"What were you thinking?" he asked coldly, turning to leave. Charlene was stunned.
Stewart explained, "He was talking about your husband." Kenton had meant, "Look at the partner you've chosen!"
Charlene realized this. "Did they say anything?" she asked Stewart. Earlier, they'd been far from the front row. She'd seen Thorne and Vesta greet Kenton after his speech, but hadn't heard their conversation.
Stewart shook his head. "No idea."
Charlene was at a loss.
Engrossed in their conversation, they hadn't noticed Vesta and Laverne observing them. Watching Kenton leave, Laverne told Vesta, "Don't worry. Charlene lacks your expertise. Knowing Kenton does her no good; she can't become his student."
Vesta smirked. "I know." "Let's go," she said.
Charlene and Stewart weren't ready to leave; it was a prime networking opportunity. After Kenton departed, they returned to the exhibition hall. They saw Thorne again, but neither approached the other. To everyone else, they appeared as strangers.
Vesta and her group remained. Henley had expressed interest in Charlene at a jewelry store, but unlike before, he didn't approach her. Charlene found this amusing, understanding why: Vesta's presence and Henley's paternal relationship with her made any advance awkward.