The walk to the professor's office wasn't any different. People stopped to stare, lean into each other, and whisper. The two men, Dantes and Elio, followed closely behind, their footsteps matching hers.
Professor Aldridge's door was open. He was already behind his desk, reading glasses still perched on his nose and a tablet in his hands. He looked up when she knocked on the frame.
"Come in. Sit."
She sat.
The professor set down his tablet and folded his hands on the desk. "I won't keep you long. I know you have places."
"I have time, sir."
He nodded, then smiled. "I received an email yesterday. From Harrow & Stone."
Vessara knew the name. Harrow & Stone was one of the largest architectural firms in the southern region.
"They want to purchase your design," the professor continued, watching her carefully. "The one you submitted for the regional competition. The sustainable housing complex with the integrated green spaces."
Vessara's mouth opened. Nothing came out.
