Chapter 38

After returning to college, Lauren rushed to the laboratory, devoting all her time to research, even neglecting food and sleep. Her tutor, concerned about her health, arranged for someone to remind her to eat at regular intervals.

Lauren was incredibly busy. Though only a postgraduate student, she managed all aspects of the research. Having spent time with the Bennett family, she felt the pressure to make significant progress. She also had to correct mistakes made by some teammates.

After a busy morning, Lauren ate lunch in the rest room. Several of her senior colleagues approached her for research advice.

Lauren took a bite of her hamburger, considering her response. Their questions weren't difficult, but somewhat complex, so she wanted to explain clearly.

Just then, her phone rang. She instinctively reached for it, intending to hang up, but hesitated upon seeing it was Leo calling. Her heart filled with joy.

She put down her hamburger, picked up the phone, and nodded to those around her, saying, "Excuse me, I have a call." She walked to the window to take the call.

"Lauren!" Leo exclaimed excitedly. "Have you been busy lately?"

Lauren shook her head. "Not really."

Leo felt a pang of disappointment. Why hadn't she called if she wasn't busy? Did she not like me? He nervously continued, his eyes shining, "Lauren, thank you for the gift. I loved it, so I wanted to call and thank you."

Leo, being polite, used the gift as a pretext to call. He didn't want to bother her, so he quickly changed the subject.

Charlie, sitting beside Leo and observing the call, raised an eyebrow. He hadn't expected Leo to be so clever.

"Really?" Lauren replied gently. "I'm glad you liked it."

Leo glanced at his watch, pursed his lips, and remained silent for a long time. Noticing this, Leo looked at Charlie. Leo then stood up abruptly and rushed to the door, turning his back to his father to prevent him from overhearing his conversation with Lauren.

Hearing silence, Lauren assumed he'd hung up. "Leo, are you still there?"

"Yes," Leo said in a sweet voice. "Lauren, I'd like to invite you to my house tomorrow."

Lauren considered Charlie and hesitated.

Leo's voice betrayed his nervousness. "Lauren, will you come?"

Even without seeing him, Lauren sensed his disappointment and quickly replied, "Yes, I'll come see you tomorrow."

Leo's happiness overflowed; he tiptoed around, giggling.

"Lauren, I can't wait to see you!" He happily ended the call and ran back to the living room. Spotting Charlie, he cunningly asked, "Dad, why did you tell me to call Lauren?" It had been Charlie's idea.

Charlie sat back on the sofa, legs crossed.

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