Chapter 225 I Appreciate the Kindness
That evening, Riley and Adam showed up at the dinner party hosted by the organizers, right on schedule.
It was a swanky restaurant near the hotel where the afternoon seminar had taken place.
The organizers had booked a private room ahead of time. As soon as they walked in, a waiter led them upstairs to a secluded room in the corner.
Each private room in this restaurant had its own unique vibe. Given that they were all academics, the organizers had picked a room with a strong scholarly atmosphere.
As soon as they stepped inside, they were greeted by bookshelves packed with various books and artworks. The walls were adorned with art pieces and academic-related pictures.
Upon their arrival, a few guests had taken their seats. Riley and Adam's entrance was met with all eyes turning towards them, brimming with admiration and gratitude.
They were the youngest attendees at the seminar, and Riley, being a woman, had really impressed the senior scholars with her performance.
Riley smiled apologetically. "Sorry for the wait, we got a bit lost."
After the seminar, she and Adam had wandered around North City without the organizers. They got lost on their way back and took some time to find the hotel.
"It's no problem. Not everyone is here yet. Come, have a seat!"
Zachary, seated at the head of the table, stood up and waved them over, signaling them to sit beside him.
Riley felt honored. Zachary was internationally renowned, and even her teacher, Chandler, spoke highly of him.
Riley hadn't expected such favor from Zachary. She glanced around and saw everyone looking envious.
"We'll just sit by the door. It would be inconvenient for the elders if the waiters have to serve dishes here."
With that, she and Adam sat by the door.
Zachary frowned slightly but didn't insist. "You two are quite considerate."
Riley smiled but didn't respond.
After a while, everyone had arrived.
"Ms. Monroe, being so young and a woman, to have such high achievements is truly remarkable!"
Seeing Zachary's appreciation for Riley, and having witnessed her expertise, everyone began to praise her.
Riley humbly said, "It was just that Mr. Powell's question happened to be something I had also researched, so I had some insights."
Zachary even extended an invitation on the spot, "I wonder if Ms. Monroe would be interested in working with me? Just ask, I have absolutely no second thoughts!"
Hearing this, everyone was surprised, including Adam.
Zachary, known for his reclusive dedication to his research, hadn't taken on any students for years. His exclusive focus on his own work made this offer incredibly rare and significant.
Stunned momentarily, Riley paused before responding. Encountering the supportive gazes of those present, she recognized the honor bestowed upon her.
However, after a brief pause, she responded with grace. "I truly appreciate Mr. Powell's kind offer, but I'm currently committed to assisting my teacher and may be too busy to take on additional responsibilities. The last thing I'd want is to cause any inconvenience for you, Mr. Powell." She bowed slightly, an earnest apology in her eyes.
Hearing Riley's refusal, the table was in an uproar.
Zachary, however, seemed a bit regretful. "In that case, I won't insist. If you ever change your mind, feel free to reach out to me."
Riley smiled gratefully. "Thank you, Mr. Powell, for your appreciation."
