She was congenial to both Ian and Jessica, and they had a lot of good conversations back then.

That was the time before the Internet became widespread, so the two had kept in contact through the occasional letter.

Of course, the contents of the letters were only ever academic in nature.

At the time, Julie even considered Ian the only real gentleman she had ever met.

“Mr. Navarro is the vice director of the research institute," Maria explained briefly.

Hearing her call him Mr. Navarro, Ian seemed to have understood something.

He instantly pretended that they didn't know each other well and greeted her politely, “Hello, Miss Jenkins."

Ian didn't seem to need an introduction to Anthony either as he said directly, "Hello, Mr. Wilson."

Julie was stunned. She had no idea that Ian knew even Anthony.

But on second thought, perhaps the Wilson family also had some business dealings with the research institute?

It sounded reasonable that the master of the Wilson family also needed the hibernation technology...

The more Julie thought about it, the more sense it made. She quickly put her doubts to rest.

“Maria, what brings you here?" Julie asked, changing the subject.

Maria answered naturally, “It's a nice day. We came out here to enjoy the fresh air

Julie's smile stiffened.

Ian was speechless, too.

Anthony backed Maria up and nodded seriously.

“Yes, we're just enjoying the fresh air."

Truth be told, lying was an art.

And the masters of this art were able to lie in a plain, convincing tone, rather than making up complicated stories.

Which was exactly what Maria and Anthony were doing now.

“Mom, are you and Mr. Navarro... Enjoying the fresh air, too?" Maria asked pointedly.

“What? What nonsense are you talking about?"

Julie forced an awkward laugh and shot Maria a subtle glare.