Chapter 436: Are You Serious?

Hayley’s POV:

Finished.

Noticing my confused expression, Professor Cain began to explain. “Here’s the situation. My team and I have been working on a significant research project for the past couple of years, and I was wondering if you’d be interested in joining us.”

Before I could respond, the administrator standing nearby gasped in disbelief. “Professor Cain, are you serious? From what I understand, your research topics are national priorities. Even teaching assistants don’t typically get a chance to participate in them. Hayley’s just a freshman—how could she possibly handle something like this?”

But Professor Cain simply smiled and replied, “That’s exactly why I’m confident in her potential. She’s young, and that’s what we need—fresh energy and new ideas. We can’t keep relying on us older folks. Don’t you agree, Hayley?”

I snapped out of my shock. I knew how important these research projects were and how rare an opportunity this was. But my life was already packed to the brim—between my responsibilities as the Alpha of the Shadow Pack, a race car driver, a multinational business owner, and a leader of an underground organization. I didn’t have the time to commit to something so demanding. Research required total focus and dedication, body and soul. And frankly, I didn’t have the energy to spare.

After a moment of thought, I politely turned him down. “I’m sorry, Professor Cain, but I don’t think I can join your team.”

The office fell silent, and I could see even Professor Cain’s smile slowly fade. He persisted, “If you have any concerns, feel free to share them. Or, if you need more time to think, I understand. Take a couple of days to consider, and let me know your decision.”

I opened my mouth to respond, but he quickly interrupted. “Let’s leave it for today. No rush. Take your time. When you’re ready, come and find me.”

I understood what he meant. After a brief hesitation, I nodded. “Alright, I’ll give it serious thought.”

Seeing my response, Professor Cain’s expression brightened considerably. “That’s great! Now go ahead and get to work. You’ve got a speech to prepare for the opening ceremony tomorrow, so get back to it.”

I nodded, said my goodbyes, and left the office.

Back in my dorm, I sat down and began working on my speech. Before long, my phone buzzed in my pocket.

Sat, Jan 18 D 95% 1

I glanced at the time. I was almost done with my speech, so I decided to take a break and head out. At the east gate, I spotted Christine waving from outside a restaurant. “Hayley, over here!”

I hurried over, and we walked inside and sat down. As we talked about the latest events in our departments, a tall guy approached our table. He turned to Christine and asked, “Hey, can I get your Instagram handle?”

Christine, looking uninterested, replied coolly, “Sorry, I’m not really into social media.”

Undeterred, the guy asked, “How about your phone number?”

“I don’t have a phone,” she responded, still calm.

But the guy wasn’t giving up, pressing further. I was just about to step in and help Christine get rid of him when a male voice suddenly interrupted. “Looking for my selected mate’s phone number? How about I give it to you instead?”

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