Chapter 68: A New Turning Point

"Have you decided which university to apply to?"

"Ashford University."

"What's your major?"

"Bioinformatics."

Connor Hayes raised an eyebrow. "An interdisciplinary field combining biology, mathematics, and computer science?"

Clara Whitmore looked at him with mild surprise. "You know about this?"

"Just took some introductory courses. I've always struggled to distinguish between Applied Life Sciences, Bioinformatics, and Biology."

Clara explained patiently, "Applied Life Sciences focuses on practical applications of biomolecules. Biology studies fundamental life phenomena. Bioinformatics uses computational methods to process biological data." She paused. "Was that too technical?"

Connor pondered for a moment. "So in simple terms—Biology provides theoretical foundations, Applied Life Sciences handles practical operations, and Bioinformatics solves biological problems using computers?"

A flicker of astonishment crossed Clara's eyes. "That's an impressively accurate summary."

"You explained it well." Connor's smile deepened. "I just translated the jargon into plain English."

Clara studied the man before her with renewed interest.

In her memory, Connor Hayes only frequented nightclubs and parties—the epitome of a playboy. She never expected him to engage in such specialized academic discourse.

It reminded her of Grant Holloway. After six years together, he couldn't even remember her major. Their relationship consisted of nightclub socializing and bedroom encounters.

Mason Reed, completely lost in the conversation, seized the opportunity to excuse himself when the check arrived.

Connor glanced at his phone. "Mason had an emergency. He asked me to see you home."

"No need, I'll take a cab."

"Allowing a lady to return alone isn't gentlemanly." He gave a slight bow. "The honor would be mine."

At the restaurant entrance, Connor courteously opened the car door for her.

The interior fell silent. Clara gazed absently at the snowscape rushing past the window.

Connor's peripheral vision caught her refined profile. Without the deliberate curls, her natural elegance shone through.

His grip tightened on the steering wheel as his eyes returned to the road ahead.