Chapter 96 The Conference Begins

24

Scarlett had been crated beside Calvin’s group originally because she was still working in hisb at the time the event was organized.

But after things senured between them, Wayne personally contacted the organizers to make adjustments once he realized Scarlett’s capabilities.

In the end, they had to separate her from theb’s main table—though her station remained close by.

Scarlett had no objections.

She wasn’t afraid of anything.

It was Reba who wasn’t satisfied.

They were both presenting research on anti–cancer therapies–there was no avoidingparisons.

But thankfully, Scarlett was seated to her right, which meant she’d be speaking after Reba.

bIf /bany part of Scarlett’s content ovepped with hers, she could just use her of giarism.

Besides, she was sure Calvin would take her side.

In academia, it was brutal.

If your advisor said you weren’t good enough–then that was final.

Thinking that way actually calmed her down.

“Why are you all alone? You sure you can handle that?”

Calvin sneered from the side.

“She can definitely handle it. You don’t have to worry about her. After all, she’s quite capable now.”

Reba nervously asked, “Professor, if Scarlett doesn’t do wellter… could you maybe help her out?”

Calvin’s face darkened to near ck.

He still hadn’t gotten over the humiliation from that night he rushed out of Darian Hall.

If not for Rebaforting him afterward, he might’ve already taken revenge on Scarlett.

The fact that he hadn’t tried to sabotage her was already generous.

Help her?

He’d rather see her crash and burn

“I wouldn’t dare. Your sister’s very impressive. I’m sure she can manage just fine on her own.”

iHopefully /iishe /icrashes so ihard /iishe /iidisappears /iifrom /iimy /isight iforever/ii. /i

Reba sighed softly.

Chapter on The Conference Begins

“I’m sorry I couldn’t help you.”

Scarlett’s face was icy.

“No need to apologize. Honestly, as long as you stay far away from me, I’ll be just fine.”

Reba looked hurt. “1”

“Reba, please focus on your experiment. Don’t bother me. OK?”

Scarlett’s warning was sharp and impatient.

Reba looked even more pitiful now. She wanted to say something but didn’t dare. All she could do was lower her head and wipe at her tears.

People around them began to think Scarlett was being too harsh, and some even felt sorry for Reba.

But Scarlett didn’t care.

She focusedpletely on theb mouse in front of her.

In the audience seats—

Jack elbowed Jasper.

“We’re really just sitting here watching? Shouldn’t we call a few people to support Pixel?”

Jasper remained calm. “No need.”

“Everyone else has advisors.” Jack looked genuinely concerned. “I could call a few friends over–really freak Reba out.”

Jasper’s voice held quiet certainty, like he already knew how it would all end.

“Advisors don’t matter if they’re not as good as her.”

Jack gawked. “Jasper, that kind of blind confidence is straight–up arrogance.”

Jasper finally turned to look at him.

“Maybe for you, it is. But she’s different.”

Jack froze. iWas /ithat ian /iiinsult/ii? /iHe couldn’t even be sure–but it ifelt /ilike it.

Soon, with the arrival of several experts, the conference officially began.

Overhead lights cast a harsh white glow across Scarlett’sb coat, outlining her in sharp; sterile brilliance.

No matter how impressive the other students were-

Scarlett felt no jealousy.

Instead, she raised her hand repeatedly to ask thoughtful, precise questions.

60%

Chapter 96 The Conference Begins

Her contributions quickly drew the attention of several experts in attendance.

Among them was Professor Hugh, who’d met her at Darian Hall.

He didn’t hesitate to rmend her to his colleagues sitting nearby.

As more people began to admire Scarlett’s quick thinking, Reba stood up.

It was her turn to present.

“That’s Calvin’s top student?”

“I’ve seen Micah around more often before.”

“Micah’s in the audience today. He’s not presenting.”

“Still, he’s won a ton ofpetitions recently. Makes sense to give others a chance.”

“I heard Professor Miller runs a very tight, supportiveb. Honestly, I’m jealous.”

* Finished

A few students sitting nearby–once friendly with Reba–exchanged awkward, stifled nces.

They had been on good terms once.

Now… it wasplicated.

No one wanted to talk about it.

Reba stood poised and confident, beginning her presentation.

“In summary, we’re developing a T–cell activating antibody targeting CD28, aiming to enhance anti–tumor immune response.”

476

1