Chapter 1454

"Don't do that!"

Thompson, his back to Austin, whirled around, fearing Austin would call the police. Seeing Austin holding only the research sample, not his phone, eased his apprehension. However, Austin gleaned something from his reaction.

"Professor Thompson, you're threatened, aren't you? What did they threaten you with? You're highly respected, and you've poured your heart into this research. If they have ill intentions, we should call the police!"

"It's not that simple! You're young; you don't understand the undercurrents."

Thompson shoved Austin. "Get out of here, and don't come back! Consider this a break from the research."

"How can I just leave everything behind?" Austin stood firm. "Professor Thompson, you've devoted everything to this, and I have too! I recovered the data, and we succeeded! Look! Our research bears fruit; it can help people! How can you let me leave now?"

A heated argument ensued. Seeing he couldn't dissuade Austin, Thompson's anger flared. "Fine! Want the truth? Don't regret it!"

He flung open the door, revealing a woman standing there, arms crossed, head slightly bowed. No one knew how long she'd been there. Thompson stood, stunned.

Austin turned, seeing Thompson's daze and the woman. "Rhea?"

Didn't she leave? When did she return? I didn't hear a sound! His gaze dropped to her bare feet. She wore a black dress, but her bare feet suggested a calculated return. She'd pretended to leave, then removed her heels. Was it all to catch Austin? To exploit his earlier presence?

"Professor Thompson, you haven't changed. You're still so kind!" She shook her head, tossing her hair, a charming gesture. "He didn't eavesdrop intentionally, R-Rhea, and he doesn't know much. Let him go," Thompson stammered.

Austin was speechless.

"What can I possibly do to him? I'm a weak woman! Besides, Mr. Austin is a genius, a descendant of the miracle doctor. Our lab needs him. Why would I harm him?"

Though speaking to Thompson, her gaze locked onto Austin, veiled threats lacing her words, her stare sharp with menace. Thompson understood.

"Rhea, you're brilliant, the only one we need. We don't need to involve him. Besides, he's busy with other research…"

"Then stop all other research!" Rhea interrupted, her tone firm.