Chapter 309

Harrison, along with the second and third branches, had received their invitations to the Global Scholars Forum weeks prior. They were all dying to meet this so-called genius girl in person.

None could fathom what made this prodigy so special, their curiosity burning brighter with each passing day.

Isabella clung to Nathaniel's arm, her nails digging into his sleeve whenever the topic arose. The mere mention of the genius girl sent waves of envy coursing through her veins.

All of Willowbrook's attention was fixed on this mysterious girl. The city buzzed with anticipation for Nathaniel and the prodigy's first public appearance together. Isabella wouldn't miss it for the world.

Harrison stood apart, her sharp eyes glinting with quiet amusement as she observed the scene. The whole situation struck her as rather comical.

A faint smirk played at the corners of her lips.

Before she could school her expression, she felt the weight of an intense gaze. Looking up, she locked eyes with Nathaniel's icy stare.

He'd been watching her this entire time.

Harrison quickly averted her gaze, an uncomfortable shiver running down her spine.

Victoria steered the conversation back on track. "Harrison, Mr. Whitfield has expressed his interest. Why not spend some time with him? Go on a few dates, see how things develop. Then we can finalize the marriage arrangements."

Harrison stared at her mother, who seemed desperate to marry her off before the week was out. Clearly, this was all about removing the obstacle between Isabella and her ambitions.

Harrison turned to Marcus. "Mr. Whitfield, I appreciate the offer, but this won't work. Don't waste your time on me."

Her words sent shockwaves through the room.

Margaret recovered first, her voice sharp with disapproval. "Harrison, have you lost your mind? You're rejecting Mr. Whitfield?"

Penelope chimed in, "Harrison, he just offered to take you to the Global Scholars Forum. Do you honestly think you could get in otherwise?"

Victoria frowned. "Harrison, Mr. Whitfield is willing to overlook your lack of education and employment. And you're refusing him?"

Even Isabella thought Harrison was being ridiculous. Marcus was a catch - educated, employed as a teacher. If not for Harrison's looks, he'd never consider her.

As the criticisms rained down, Harrison could tell their disappointment was genuine. They truly believed she was punching above her weight with someone like Marcus.

Harrison's lips curved into a smirk. "Sorry to disappoint, but thank you for your concern. However... I already have a boyfriend!"

Silence descended.

"Since when?"

"Who is he?"

Isabella couldn't stay seated any longer. She had no idea what game Harrison was playing now. With a mocking tone, she teased, "Harrison, I know you've always aimed high. A teacher isn't good enough - you want a wealthy man, don't you?"

She glanced meaningfully at Nathaniel. "Nathaniel knows plenty of CEOs. Maybe he could introduce you to one?"

Nathaniel studied Harrison carefully. Their divorce was recent, yet she already had a boyfriend?

Harrison met Isabella's gaze, then let her eyes linger on Nathaniel's striking features. She remembered his promise at that quaint inn - to introduce her to a suitable CEO.

"No need to trouble Mr. Falcon. My boyfriend is already quite wealthy!" Harrison arched an eyebrow, pride evident in her stance.

Wealthy?

Penelope burst into laughter first. "Harrison, what kind of rich man would be interested in you? Don't tell me it's some decrepit old man?"

Harrison clasped her hands behind her back playfully and winked. "My boyfriend isn't just rich. He's handsome, tall - like Chris Hemsworth."