Dennis Williams looked a little surprised. “An old flame?”
Camila Davis nodded and told him about Mrs. Molly.
When she finished, Dennis let out a soft chuckle. “I never would have guessed Mrs. Molly had such a past.”
Hearing his tone, Camila couldn’t help but ask, “You know Mrs. Molly too?”
Dennis nodded. “In Cabinda, there isn’t a soul who doesn’t know her.”
The Webb family’s reputation in the literary world was unmatched. Their lineage stretched back more than ten generations, producing advisers to kings, renowned scholars, and statesmen. Even now, several members held influential positions as policy advisors to the country.
As the only daughter of the previous family head, Mrs. Molly was gifted in every sense—brilliant, graceful, and wise. In Cabinda, many people tried to become her apprentice, hoping to forge a connection with her under the guise of seeking mentorship.
“So that’s how it is…” Camila was genuinely taken aback. She’d always thought that people sought out Mrs. Molly purely for her talent; it had never occurred to her that there were other motives at play. But then, remembering they were in Cabinda, she realized she shouldn’t be so surprised after all.
Dennis watched her shifting expressions with amusement. He reached out and gently scratched her chin, the way someone might tease a cat.
He continued, “Your mentor cares about you a great deal, you know. Everything he’s been doing is to pave the way for you. Whether it’s Mr. Sanders or Mrs. Molly, he’s clearly helping you build your own network.”
Camila caught on quickly. In truth, she’d already sensed something a moment ago. Was this all because of the situation at the institute? She lowered her eyes, falling silent for a long time.
Only now did she realize that her mentor wasn’t as calm as he always appeared. He must be worried that, if the institute’s investigation turned up nothing, she’d be let go—as per their agreement. So he was working behind the scenes, opening doors for her, hoping that even if she had to leave the institute, other opportunities would be waiting for her.
The realization made Camila’s nose sting with emotion. If she’d known all this earlier, she wouldn’t have teased her mentor just now.
Dennis’s eyes darkened slightly. He lifted her chin and brushed her delicate nose with his fingertip. “Looks like your mentor and I are thinking along the same lines. I was planning something similar, but he beat me to it.”


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