The Killer Queen (Noella Briony)

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—t'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.”Material © NôvelDrama.Org.

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."

Noella, still youthful, had time to think over marriage. The engagement was merely formal. Thinking of a lifetime with Palmer didn't seem so bad after all. "I'm okay with it.”

Marcel's smile held depth, "Is it okay with anyone, or specifically Palmer?" Noella, much like Harriet, would prioritize the bigger picture over personal desires. Marcel didn't want Noella to sacrifice her happiness. Meeting Marcel’s gaze, she clarified, “Only Palmer is okay."

"Then I'm relieved. With new staff at your school, you have the chance to switch up your routine, attend classes. Your happiness is what matters most. Your parents will handle the engagement party details." For Noella, school was a break from routine. With a smile, she nodded, "Understood."

Imperial University. A sleek Cullinan pulled up at the school, drawing curious glances. Unbuckling her seatbelt, Noella was about to step out when Palmer held her back. "How about a kiss before you go?" he whispered, a playful edge in his voice.

Noella blushed! When had Palmer become so forward? Though they were a couple, Palmer's words, infused with intimate undertones, i sent her heart racing. Facing those deep eyes up close in the cramped car space, Noella felt his presence enve op her. In a playful mosd, she tapped Palmer's cheek, quickly pecked his cheek, and dashed out of the car.

Watching her leave, Palmer touched his cheek, smiling indulgently and helplessly. She was irresistible!

Ingrid was thrilled to see Noella back at school. "Noella!" "Just Noella is fine. What's up, class rep?”

Sitting beside Noella, Ingrid shared, "The school expelled Oriana, and somehow, the principa retired too. There's anew principal now." The -~ events atthe conference hadn't. S causedha stir. After all, it was just a scandal that spread within the academic circles, but it was's ill eniough to dash Garrick'shopes of ever making a career in research for the rest of his life!

to

Noella had seen this coming miles away. Ingrid pursed her lips, "The department head has changed, too. He asked you to drop by his office after class. Said he saw your previous designs and wanted to get the scoop.” Noella nodded in acknowledgment.

This class was supposed to be Darcy Sinclairs, who after a short delay rushedin, apologizing to the students before starting the lessons Noella, résting her chin on her =< hands,watched Darcy ons age> whensuddenly, there was seme canamotion at the chair next to her! LGoking down, she saw Malvina sneaking in from the back, bending over like a thief, and quietly taking the seat next to Noella.

"Honey, your campus is ridiculously huge, I've been looking for you for ages!” "Was your school not big when you attended?" Malvina stood her ground defiantly. “How would I know? I never went to classes, considering I bought my diploma!” "What brought you here?”

At this, Malvina bristled, instantly turning into a hissing cat. "I'm breaking up with Ulrich! Tell him to stay away from me!"