A minor episode unfolded during a medical consultation. A highly accomplished pharmacology professor suggested to Erin Wilder, “Isn’t it wiser to include Professor Hanley in our research integrating cell biology with acupuncture? He’s the expert in cell biology, after all. He knows more than anyone here.”

Anger flashed across Erin’s usually calm face. “Am I nothing to you?” she retorted. “I suggest you ask around if you’re clueless about my history with Professor Hanley. What ‘expert’ are you talking about? I won’t have him endangering my patients!”

The professor who made the suggestion looked vexed. “Professor Wilder, don’t you think you’re being too harsh? Our mission is to cure cell-related diseases. We should welcome anyone who can help!” he protested. “It’s unprofessional to turn away valuable resources over personal grudges!”

Erin snorted. “Well, sorry to disappoint, but I don’t need a man like Wilson Hanley on my research team. If you think he can help, you should seek him out. You’re not welcome on my team.”

Luna watched Erin’s assertive display with respect. Her new mentor certainly stood her ground! She realized she had unknowingly joined the research team of Professor Hanley’s opponent. The thought excited her. Would Wyatt and the others think she was doing this on purpose? So what if she was? Let them fume!

“Why are you smiling?” Erin asked. “It’s time to show off your knowledge of pharmacology and cell biology in front of this professor. Let him know that everyone on my team—even a temporary intern—deserves their place.” She then gestured to Luna.

Luna began, “Good day, professors. Regarding the research you mentioned—integrating cell biology with acupuncture—I believe that…” She then gave a comprehensive explanation of the project’s feasibility, covering theoretical cell biology, pharmacological applications, and the integration of acupuncture.

Although Luna’s presentation was brief, everyone fell silent in awe, including Erin. She realized Luna was even more brilliant than she’d expected. Thunderous applause followed the silence.

“Ms. Hayes, you don’t major in acupuncture, do you?” a professor asked.

Luna replied honestly, “No. I major in cell biology.”

“I heard Professor Hanley has assembled a team for a new research project,” the professor continued. “If you’re a cell biology major, why didn’t you…”

Erin interrupted sharply, “Is my team undeserving of a top student in cell biology?”

The professor patted Erin’s arm. “Hey, that’s not what I meant. I just didn’t want history to repeat itself. It’s not easy to assemble a research team, you know.”

Erin glanced at Luna and said, “Don’t you worry. This time, Wilson won’t take Luna from us!”

“Great. I’m relieved to hear that,” the professor replied. “Let’s wrap up this consultation. Please begin the research as soon as the team is set. In the meantime, I’ll speak with the patient’s family.”

Professor Carl Holbeck, who had spoken with Erin, rose and adjusted his glasses, looking at Luna for a moment before leaving with another professor.

Erin turned to Luna. “You heard Professor Holbeck, didn’t you? Now that you’re on my team, you need to focus. I don’t like students who are all over the place.”

Luna promised confidently, “Professor Wilder, don’t worry. I won’t get distracted, and I will never go back to Professor Hanley.” She then asked, “Were those two professors Carl Holbeck from Clinical Medicine and Harper Johnson from Pharmacology?”