Chapter 405
Josie was in a good mood. Halfway through the meal, she raised her wine glass.
She said, "Ian, there's something I need to apologize to you for. Actually, when I first came to you for that minor project, I wasn’t really trying to boost my resume. I was using you to deal with Natalie."
She wanted to finish her words in one breath, afraid that if she paused, she would lose the courage to finish. She continued, "The paper Natalie published was actually just theoretical data. In other words, she hadn’t done any experiments at all, let alone any research. This project was actually experimental homework David assigned to us several years ago. At the time, because the project was so minor, no one really took it seriously. Later, to complete the assignment, we simulated the experimental process using theoretical knowledge and barely finished it.
"I was also very surprised that Natalie would actually publish it. When I saw her paper, I immediately spotted the problem. To prove my suspicion, I came to you. Originally, I just wanted to verify my suspicion and find evidence to expose Natalie, and at the same time, reveal David’s inaction as an advisor. I never expected you would achieve such significant results. Ian, I’m sorry. I truly apologize for using you. This drink is my way of making amends!”
With that, she tilted her head back and downed the wine in her glass in one gulp. The wine went down, but her face flushed bright red from choking.
Ian was a little angry, but he couldn’t quite bring himself to be. He said, “You didn’t use me at all. You gave me a great gift, worked tirelessly on the paper’s publication, and now you’re even helping me submit it to the competition. Professor Wilcourt said my experiment was very complete. Just with that, I’ve managed to enter the research field and establish a solid footing in the institute. Ultimately, I should be thanking you!”
Josie giggled. “As long as you’re not angry, that’s all that matters. Don’t worry, leave the rest to me. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, I can even get you an award!”
“Then I’ll look forward to it.” Ian raised his glass and drank the wine in it. Something sank into his stomach along with the spicy wine.
Joseph was quick-witted. He quickly spoke up. “If there’s ever another good opportunity like this, Josie, you can come find me. I’d be happy to be used by you!”
Tripp also chimed in, “Exactly! I don’t mind if you use me.”
Everyone burst into laughter at the remark. Meanwhile, Joseph and the others also breathed a sigh of relief. They finally understood Josie’s motive for all of this, which dispelled their concerns. They feared that she had other motives behind this previously.
Josie got drunk again. She hadn’t intended to, but she couldn’t resist her good mood and everyone’s enthusiasm. As they were leaving, just as they opened the private room door, David rushed in furiously.
He said, “Josie, you backstabbing traitor! How could you help outsiders against Natalie? How dare you?” He was fierce, and his scolding was very harsh. “I truly regret taking you as my student. You’ve disappointed me greatly!”
Just as Sean was about to step forward, Josie pulled him back. She had too much to drink and was unsteady on her feet, but her tongue was still sharp. She let out a drunken hiccup. “I haven’t been your student for a long time. What’s with all the shouting? Oh, I see. Professor Lawson, are you lashing out in embarrassment? Did Ian’s paper make you lose face? You deserve to be embarrassed. Were you really hoping Natalie would bring you prestige? As someone who plagiarizes papers and only wants to climb over others to get ahead, she will never amount to anything. You will never find her useful!”
She gave David a glare, her steps faltered, and her body swayed twice.
“Be careful!” Sean stepped forward to steady her, his gaze sweeping displeasedly towards David. He said, “Watch your words. Josie is not someone you can insult freely. If you dare to say one more negative word about her, do not blame me for making things difficult for you!”
Chapter 406