The only thing worth noting was the incident where Claire saved someone's life using silverware.
That event had remained a stubborn thorn in Sloane's side.
If Claire was the heroine of that story, why hadn't she claimed the credit sooner?
She had waited until Sloane made those ambiguous claims, only to then reveal she was the true lifesaver.
It was baffling that a mere freshman possessed such skills.
Aside from her shock, Sloane harbored deep suspicions.
In fact, she shared Leo Cross's theory, suspecting Claire had orchestrated the whole thing as a publicity stunt.
The only thing keeping that theory from becoming undeniable fact was that Claire hadn't capitalized on the subsequent media attention.
"Then you must be much better than her," Whitney said, her eyes flashing mischievously. "I heard that when Claire went to that competition, she ended up saving Julia's life."
"That's why Julia is so fond of her."
This was entirely new information to Sloane.
*No wonder!* she thought to herself.
Julia and Claire didn't seem particularly close, yet they clicked in an inexplicable way.
Everyone knew Julia was notoriously aloof around others.
Coming from a wealthy foreign background, she carried herself with the haughty elegance of high society.
Very few people ever earned her respect.
Even at The Cabinda University, surrounded by the brightest minds, Julia viewed them all as nothing more than ordinary.
"So that's how it is. What exactly did Claire do to save her? Was it during one of her heart episodes?"
Over the past few days, Sloane had become increasingly aware of the sheer power wielded by the Ford Family.
Naturally, she wanted to get the little princess on her good side.
Nobody ever complained about having too many elite connections.
"I don't know the exact details, just that Claire happened to be there when Julia collapsed."
"The Ford Family is incredibly grateful to her for it."
Whitney deliberately emphasized the family's gratitude, knowing full well that Sloane
would recognize the massive benefits of curing Julia.
Sure enough, Sloane took the bait.
"Actually, I might have a way to introduce Julia to my grandfather," she offered smoothly.
The moment the words left Sloane's mouth, Whitney knew her little trap had worked.
After all, who wouldn't want to be in the Ford Family's inner circle?
"What kind of way?" Whitney asked, feigning intense curiosity.
iet
"I'm turning twenty in a few days, and my family is throwing a lavish birthday party for me. My -grandfather
ht make ar
appearance."
In truth, Sloane had no guarantee that her grandfather would actually show up. She planned to beg her parents to make it happen; if he came, it would be perfect. Even if he didn't, she could always spin another excuse to keep Julia hooked later. The important thing was forging the connection now and dealing with the logistics later.
She had looked into Julia's condition and knew it wasn't immediately terminal. Because of that, she had plenty of time to play her cards.
Her grandfather was currently working down south with some top executives.
But he was scheduled to return in a couple of days.
Once he was back, she could use Julia's illness as an excuse to get his attention.
"I just don't know if you and Julia would do me the honor of attending."
With Sloane phrasing it like that, Whitney was more than happy to agree.
"I'd love to, and I'm sure Julia would be up for it too."
Sloane's twentieth birthday bash presented the perfect opportunity.
"I'll go check with Julia then."
When Sloane extended the invitation persona Julia immediately
accepted the chance to meet
Sterling Senior.
"Absolutely, Sloane. I'll be there," Julia promised.
Receiving the invite actually warmed Julia up to Sloane a little bit.
While she previously thought Sloane was totally fake, she was now eagerly anticipating the birthday part and the chance to see the esteemned doctor Content belangs
"Would it be alright if I brought a plus-one?" Julia asked.