Swapping a Broken Heart for a New Start novel Chapter 1236

By the time the last performance wrapped up, it was nearly noon. Everyone made their way to the restaurant together. Adolf, always thoughtful, had chosen a spot known for its classic Estonian dishes, all based on what he knew Robert would enjoy.

The meal was filled with laughter and easy conversation. They swapped stories about their home countries, shared quirky customs, and debated bits of history. No one brought up work at all. It was one of those rare moments when everyone just relaxed.

Only after everyone was full did Audrey gently nudge the conversation in a new direction. She glanced at Robert, curiosity shining in her eyes. “So, Robert, are you staying in Harrisburg for a while this time? Or will you just come back for the International AI Tech Summit? I remember you’re usually there every year.”

Robert nodded. “That’s right. I’ll be at the summit again this year. But for now, I’m just here for work. I probably won’t stick around too long.”

Audrey couldn’t help looking a little disappointed. “That soon? I was hoping we’d get to talk more. It’s not every day we run into each other.”

Robert smiled. “If you want to chat, Ms. Williams, I’m sure we’ll find a way.”

Now that work was on the table, Robert turned the question back to her. “By the way, how did your two companies end up working together? If I remember right, NextGen Technologies is already pretty advanced in this area, isn’t it?”

Audrey nodded. “Yeah, we’re ahead of most others, but in R&D, there’s always room to grow. Mr. Wilson’s team actually has a system that really impressed us…” She took the chance to bring up The Wilson Group’s N. Z Teck. “They developed something with a lot of potential. Robert, have you heard of N. Z Teck?”

“N. Z Teck?” Robert’s eyes widened. He turned to Walter, clearly impressed. “Wait, you’re the one behind N. Z Teck?”

Walter nodded, looking a little surprised himself. “You know about our system?”

“I do,” Robert said, nodding. “Honestly, not many companies here have caught my attention. It’s just been NextGen Technologies and a couple of others. N. Z Teck is a recent find for me. Your system is outstanding.”

He didn’t hold back his praise. The admiration in his voice was obvious.

Walter just smiled, humble as ever. “That’s mostly my partner’s work. I handle the business side. But it’s a big honor to be recognized by you. It tells us we’re on the right track.”

Meanwhile, over at Harrisburg University, representatives from The Smith Group had just arrived. They were hoping to meet Robert, planning their visit so they wouldn’t interrupt his talk. What they didn’t expect was to show up and find he was already gone.

“Robert already left? Where did he go? Wasn’t he giving a lecture?” Alison, the lead from The Smith Group, was clearly flustered.

He quickly sent someone to ask around. The answer came back fast. “Robert went to lunch with the university leadership.”

Alison grabbed the restaurant details and rushed over with his team, but once again, they were too late.

Since Robert was off to tour NextGen Technologies and The Wilson Group, Adolf didn’t join them. He said his goodbyes outside the restaurant. Just as he was about to leave, he spotted The Smith Group’s crew.

Alison recognized Adolf right away and hurried over. “Adolf, where’s Robert? Wasn’t he with you?”