The Wife You Buried Is Back from Hell novel Chapter 241

Millie looked at Mr. Hawthorne, her expression calm and composed, a gentle smile gracing her lips. She stood with quiet confidence—neither humble nor arrogant, her posture striking a perfect balance.

She wasn’t fawning, but she wasn’t aloof either.

She’d met Mr. Hawthorne once before on Alexander’s recommendation, but he’d made it clear he wouldn’t take her on as a student. His rejection had been unmistakable.

Later, she’d heard the reason for his reluctance: years ago, he’d mentored a female student who left halfway through her studies to get married, abandoning her academic career. The incident had left him deeply disappointed, and ever since, he carried a bias against mentoring young women.

Given that history, his refusal made sense. She didn’t take it personally.

Still, she needed to obtain her domestic degrees, and it would help immensely to have guidance from respected local professionals on her master’s and doctoral theses. That way, she’d not only earn her credentials but also prove her authority—whether abroad or at home, she’d be recognized for her merit.

Mr. Hawthorne regarded her with a steady, inscrutable gaze. Years of experience were etched in the lines of his face, his eyes commanding respect without a hint of anger.

Millie pressed her lips together before speaking. “Mr. Hawthorne…”

She hesitated, then asked, “Is there something on your mind? Any concerns you’d like to share?”

“Although I’ve just returned from overseas, I didn’t continue my studies there. Instead, I brought back the latest techniques and knowledge to contribute to our country’s development. My heart has always been here.”

For the first time, a kindly smile softened Mr. Hawthorne’s features.

“That’s commendable. Young people with your drive give us hope for the future.” Then his expression turned apologetic. “But—I truly lack the energy to oversee your thesis. I suggest you find someone else who can better assist you.”

She furrowed her brow, her gaze drifting to Alexander, a silent plea for help in her eyes.

Alexander’s expression remained composed, his eyes calm and clear. He offered a reassuring smile, then addressed Mr. Hawthorne. “Millie is an expert I recruited personally from abroad. I have every confidence that under her leadership, AetherX Dynamics will reach new heights.”

With just a few words, he dispelled the doubts swirling around the room. Millie hadn’t gotten her position through favoritism—she’d been specially recruited for her expertise.

A genuine smile broke across Millie’s face, sweet and relieved.

“We’ve always been close—like family, really. That’s why I never wanted people to know we grew up together; I didn’t want anyone to think I got here through connections.” She took a deep breath, her tone a bit self-conscious. “If everyone knew how close Alexander and I are, they’d just say I had special treatment. Honestly, I’ve always wanted to keep that private.”

Mr. Hawthorne’s smile barely changed, but his eyes lingered thoughtfully on Alexander.