Chapter 1647

"Dashiell Stone!" Edmund stopped and turned, his expression solemn. "You made a mistake in the data last time. I hope you won't repeat it."

A trace of impatience flickered across Dashiell's face. He sighed, putting an arm around Edmund's shoulder. "I know, I know! It was a tiny mistake! You can see I didn't do it intentionally! Dr. Morris, you're the best. How about a drink to celebrate your dedication to us all?"

"No drinking during working hours!" Edmund frowned. "Where would you even get alcohol?" The department provided all meals; they couldn't simply go home to drink. Where would they toast?

Dashiell burst out laughing at Edmund's expression. "I'm just kidding! Of course, I don't have any alcohol. It's a joke! I mean, later, once this is all over, we should celebrate with drinks. It's my way of thanking you!"

"It's part of my duty," Edmund replied, relieved it was a jest. He started to leave, but Dashiell stopped him with a smile.

"Dr. Morris, may I ask you something?"

"What is it?" Edmund's response was curt. He was in a hurry, and Dashiell's persistence was wearing on him. Despite his growing impatience, Dashiell was a colleague, recently returned from studying abroad and more outgoing than most.

"How well do you know Dr. Russell?" He gestured behind him, lowering his voice.

Edmund remained silent.

"Didn't you and Dr. Blanc go looking for Mr. Fike together? You should know her best. How did such a young woman end up on our team? That woman... where did she come from?" Dashiell produced a cigarette, offering it to Edmund.

Edmund frowned, eyeing the cigarette. "This is not a smoking area."

"Oh..." Dashiell pocketed the cigarette, smiling awkwardly. "You don't smoke or drink, and you seem to take very good care of yourself. I'm not trying to pry, I'm just concerned about the department. We signed a non-disclosure agreement, but we still know things about each other. You're a top student from Hyderland's leading medical university, and I'm a medical graduate from abroad. This research center is full of talented people, and even Dr. Blanc has years of experience, but that woman... does Dr. Blanc trust her?"

Edmund was silent. Dr. Blanc did trust her, likely for Dominic's sake. However, recently, even Edmund had noticed Lily's talent. The mice injected with the virus—while others were dead or recovering—those Lily treated with traditional herbs were thriving. Her methods seemed remarkably effective, judging by the data.

"Dr. Morris?" Dashiell prompted, seeing his silence.