“Are you worried that Jeremy’s adversary could exploit him to disrupt our research?” Delilah smiled and continued, “So, are you suggesting that we reach out to Joseph in advance to discuss starting the project and review his research as well?”
Josie nodded. “Actually, I’ve considered this before. Joseph’s major is clinical medicine, specializing in surgical procedures, which closely relates to our current research topic. His innovative project also explores how nanorobotic surgical systems can be applied to a wide range of diseases.”
“The two projects can be integrated for collaborative research. Within a large project team, subgroups may be formed based on disciplines such as cytology, acupuncture, pharmacology, and others. The main goal is to use nanorobots to treat all diseases that require surgical intervention, regardless of type.”
Delilah was taken aback and remarked, “Well, you’re certainly bold! Do you realize that every part of the body and every kind of disease could each be its own field of study? By combining so many areas in your research, aren’t you perhaps taking on too much at once?”
Josie smiled awkwardly and scratched her head. “Isn’t all this just to make sure Joseph stays? I don’t want to lose the research project he’s working on, either.”
“That’s enough,” Delilah said, waving her hand. “Go ahead and attend the award ceremony. I’ll think this over and also discuss it with Jeremy.”
Josie kept glancing back as she left and said, “Please make sure to discuss this thoroughly with Professor Wilcourt. This project has great potential, and it would be a shame if someone else took it.”
“Understood.” Delilah smiled with amusement. “You’re still young, yet you already worry so much. Focus on your studies and don’t let yourself get distracted by things that don’t concern you.”
Josie left with a chuckle.
Upon returning to the auditorium, Claire waved to her and asked, “Where have you been? Why are you only arriving now?”
“I went to the teacher’s office,” Josie replied. She smiled at her and at Sean, then sat down, patiently waiting for the award ceremony to begin.
Shortly after being notified of their shortlist and invited to the award ceremony, all teams arrived at the venue. Aiden and his group were the last to enter, drawing everyone’s attention once again. They wore bright smiles and clearly savored the moment.
Josie narrowed her eyes. Just as she started to look away, her gaze met Natalie’s. Natalie responded with a gentle, soft smile. She was genuinely gentle, and her smile was exceptionally sweet. If Josie hadn’t known how much malice lay hidden behind that charming exterior, she too might have believed Natalie was as kind as she was beautiful.
Over the past month, Natalie had remained quiet and had not disturbed her, nor had anyone else from the team reached out to her privately. As a result, there had been a brief period of peace and harmony in their relationship.
As Aiden passed by them, he paused. “Josie, it has been a while since we last met. You look well, don’t you?” Josie seemed somewhat heavier than she had been a month ago. Her small face had grown fuller, yet her eyes remained as large as ever, sparkling with a lively and adorable charm.
Josie had a neutral expression and nodded politely. “It’s been a while. You don’t seem well–have you been too busy, or haven’t slept well?”
“I’ve been busy preparing for exams lately and haven’t been sleeping well,” Aiden said with a smile. “I didn’t expect Josie to still care about me!”
This comment drew a range of reactions from those nearby. Natalie was especially furious–so angry she could have ground her teeth to dust. ‘After ignoring her for over a month, now she’s learned how to flirt? Does she really think Aiden is that easy to win over?’ Natalie wondered.
Natalie was about to speak, but Josie’s words left her speechless. “You misunderstood,” Josie said coldly.
“Honestly, I’m glad I quit the team–otherwise, I’d be the one losing sleep over this!”