Huxley believed Veronica was nothing more than a petty woman consumed by jealousy over Cullen's obvious preference for Niall. That bitter envy had driven Veronica to sabotage Niall's chances at DataPulse.
The girl possessed neither exceptional talent nor impressive credentials. All she seemed capable of was creating drama and chaos. The thought alone made Huxley want to laugh with disdain.
She wasn't alone in this assessment. Cullen undoubtedly saw through Veronica's mediocrity as well, didn't he?
What irritated Huxley most was Veronica's complete lack of self-awareness. The foolish girl was probably celebrating right now, believing she had successfully destroyed Niall's golden opportunity.
When Huxley considered Niall's extraordinary intellect and compared it to Veronica's pathetic attempts at interference, the contrast became even more stark. These two women existed in completely different leagues.
Isaac released a weary breath. "I understand your perspective." His thoughts aligned perfectly with Huxley's analysis.
"The problem is getting through to her." "She's incredibly..." Just as pigheaded as her mother had been.
Huxley kept that particular observation to herself. Discussions involving that woman always left a bitter taste in everyone's mouth.
"About the Echo situation..."
"We should wait for Niall's return and get her thoughts on our next move." Isaac's investment in this venture ran deep.
Their company had hemorrhaged millions into artificial intelligence research over the past several years, yet they remained stuck in neutral due to their lack of breakthrough technology.
Meanwhile, DataPulse generated billions in annual revenue simply by possessing Echo. The unfairness of it all gnawed at Isaac constantly.
If they could somehow obtain Echo's foundational algorithms and weave them into their current operations, their company's valuation would explode overnight. Breaking into the tens of billions market cap range would become inevitable.
As these ambitious thoughts swirled through his mind, Niall appeared in the doorway.
She acknowledged Isaac and Huxley with polite recognition. "Father, Aunt Huxley, good evening."
"Niall, perfect timing." Huxley's entire demeanor transformed the instant she saw Niall, her face radiating warmth and genuine fondness.
Niall settled into the nearest chair. "What topic has captured your attention?"
"The Echo project. Since DataPulse rejected your application, what direction are you considering now? Has Cullen offered any guidance?" Isaac inquired directly.
"Cullen promised to arrange a meeting with Malcolm Blair."
Malcolm commanded respect as one of the nation's most brilliant artificial intelligence pioneers. Government agencies treated him as a precious asset, surrounding his activities with layers of security and secrecy that made casual encounters impossible.
Dario had earned the rare privilege of studying under Malcolm's guidance, and industry insiders whispered that Malcolm himself had been instrumental in Echo's creation.
With Dario proving to be an insurmountable obstacle, their only remaining option involved bypassing the student entirely and approaching the master directly.
"Excellent news." Isaac's smile carried a hint of lingering anxiety. "But here's my concern. Dario maintains a close relationship with Malcolm. What if he's already poisoned the well by speaking negatively about you?"
"I wouldn't worry about that scenario," Huxley interjected confidently. "Isaac, you may not be aware of Malcolm Blair's reputation for prioritizing raw talent above all other considerations.
"Niall possesses genuine brilliance in artificial intelligence. Once she secures a face-to-face meeting, her technical expertise will speak for itself and earn his immediate respect.
"I wouldn't be shocked if Malcolm decides to mentor her personally after witnessing her capabilities firsthand."
Isaac's expression brightened considerably. "You make an excellent point."
Curiosity sparked in Huxley's eyes. "Did Cullen provide any specifics about when this meeting might occur?"
Niall paused to take a measured sip from her water glass before responding with characteristic composure. "During next week's technology exposition. Cullen confirmed that Malcolm Blair will be making an appearance."
Both Isaac and Huxley were familiar with the prestigious technology exposition. Unfortunately, their company lacked the industry prominence necessary to secure government-issued invitations to such exclusive events.
However, Cullen's extensive network of influential contacts might provide an alternative pathway.
Hope flickered simultaneously in both Isaac and Huxley's expressions as they fixed their attention on Niall.
Niall continued without missing a beat. "Cullen provided me with two admission tickets, though he could only obtain that limited number."
"The quantity doesn't matter in the slightest. Your attendance is the only thing that truly counts."
Huxley's enthusiasm was unmistakable. "Absolutely correct."