Chapter 4

Adrian's POV

Having escaped the peripheral entanglement, I quickly walked toward the core exhibition area.

The security level here was noticeably higher. Red barrier tape stretched tight, and inside were displayed several centerpiece treasures for this conference.

I avoided a university administrator holding champagne, my gaze moving past the sea of heads.

At the edge of the barrier, a small figure flashed past.

My heart tightened. I bent down, preparing to duck under the barrier.

"Stop!"

A hand pressed heavily on my shoulder.

The security manager Jeff blocked my path, looking me up and down.

"Which construction crew are you from? Your clothes are so dirty and you dare barge into the core area? Can you afford to pay if you damage the exhibits?"

"I'm looking for my child. I'll leave as soon as I find him."

Ethan and Veronica followed over as well.

Ethan put his hands in his pockets and sauntered over to Jeff.

"I know this guy. He used to be someone who couldn't even get official status. Now I think he repairs junk. You'd better watch him closely. Don't let him steal anything."

Jeff's back immediately straightened. He put on an ingratiating smile for Ethan, then turned to me with his features scrunched together.

"You hear that? Professor Hayes has spoken! This is a high-class venue, not a place for poor people like you to cause trouble! Get out!"

I brushed off the hand on my shoulder and emphasized again.

"I told you, I'm just a father looking for his child. And my clothes are protective wear. They're not dirty, are they?"

Ethan scoffed and exaggeratedly waved his hand in front of his nose.

"Protective wear? More like reeking of poverty. Who would run around in shabby work clothes like that in an academic sanctuary like this?"

Veronica stood to the side, frowning.

"Adrian, are you really resorting to making scenes just to get in? I kindly offered you a pass, but you refused, just to protect your pathetic pride?"

I ignored her words and looked directly into Jeff's eyes.

"I'm just here to find my child. You don't need to keep harassing me."

Jeff was momentarily intimidated by my tone and hesitated.

But he glanced at the special guest badge on Ethan's chest, then at my old toolbox.

"Stop talking nonsense. Get lost!"

I didn't want to waste more words.

Taking advantage of the security's hesitation, I sidestepped his obstruction and rushed toward the interior of the exhibition area.

"Stop him!"

Ethan's furious shout came from behind.

Veronica pulled out her phone, her fingers rapidly tapping the screen, her eyes cold.

Since I didn't know what was good for me, she'd have security throw me out to avoid embarrassment when Professor Quinn arrived.