Chapter 1275

Thompson spoke bluntly. "You're not a scientist, so you may not understand. The experiment may seem straightforward, but it demands exceptional skill. Furthermore, even a routine product requires extensive trials for success. Naturally, an opportunistic businessman like yourself wouldn't grasp the inherent difficulties."

Mike Corden, lounging on a sofa in his business suit, a cigar in hand, had spoken to Thompson moments before. He narrowed his eyes, tapped the ash from his cigar, and said, "If I recall correctly, Professor Thompson, La Beauté Group has withdrawn its funding. Without opportunistic businessmen like myself, your experiment, however brilliant, will cease."

He was deliberately blunt, aware that without La Beauté Group, continued funding was impossible without a new investor—and they were determined to prevent the experiment's termination. "You—" Thompson's temper flared at the insult.

"Enough," a man in an executive chair behind them said, his low voice husky and oddly muted. "We share a common goal. This bickering is unproductive."

Thompson retorted, "Mr. Corden, we require your funding, but you approached us seeking collaboration! This isn't charity; we each have needs. We're in this together!"

Mike raised an eyebrow but remained silent.

As Thompson glared, he heard his name. "Mr. Corden is right, Professor Thompson. This experiment has consumed considerable time and resources. We've increased the workforce, yet you report no success?"

His words were grave, conveying his anger without overt expression. Sweat beaded on Thompson's brow. "Sir, I—"

"You conceived this idea. Given your talent, I entrusted you completely, yet this is the outcome? The experiment has not only failed to achieve its objective but has lost La Beauté Group's support. Even Lily Christian is withdrawing. Is our institute her personal playground?"

Mike stared pensively at his cigar.

Beside him, Thompson wiped his sweat. "Sir, I tried to dissuade Lily, but she sensed something amiss and insisted on leaving. She attempted to probe the project. I fear…"

"Fear what?"

"I fear she's discovered the experiment's true purpose, accounting for her withdrawal. I assumed she was merely a perfumer, ignorant of herbal medicine, but she possesses surprising expertise. Her assessments of dosages were remarkably accurate."

"She learned this beforehand?"

Thompson shook his head. "No, I've investigated. While she has learned much, her knowledge of herbal medicine isn't systematically acquired. She couldn't have attained this level independently."

His employer let out a harsh snort. "Useless fool!"