Chapter 1651

"Okay!" Rhea agreed readily. The man was pleased. With a slight nod, his gaze softened. "Rhea, do you know what I like most about you?"

"I wouldn't presume," she replied lightly.

"I like how heartless and ruthless you are, unlike Mike Corden! Those destined for greatness shouldn't be weak. I chose you from many outstanding graduates for your cold-heartedness."

Rhea's expression remained unchanged. "You're right, Boss."

"How is R7 doing?" he asked, abruptly changing the subject.

"The first trial of R7 was compliant and straightforward. Otherwise, we wouldn't have transferred to the new base so quickly. Boss, rest assured, I have everything under control," she said confidently.

The man studied her intently, lightly tapping his fingers against the back of his hand. "I recall you mentioning R7's effects were unpredictable. How did you manage to control it?"

"It's not uncontrolled. I'm simply unsure of the full extent of the effects. So far, the results are very satisfactory. Everything is proceeding according to our expectations, as you can see," she replied.

"Excellent! However, Mike is right. R10 is our priority, and your progress is insufficient. Rhea, time is running out, and so is my patience!" His tone was calm, yet Rhea shuddered. She lowered her head. "I understand. I'm accelerating the process. I will succeed soon. The delay was due to the incident at the experimental base, but with our move to the new base tomorrow, I believe I will successfully develop R10!" Her voice was firm, almost self-reassuring.

The man paced before her, silent. Rhea remained bowed, her fingers slowly clenching.

After a time, his footsteps ceased. He said softly, "Okay. I hope so. I gave Mike Corden three days. How many days should I give you?" Rhea tensed, slowly lifting her head.

"Boss..."

"Don't be alarmed! I'm simply asking a question!" The man waved his hand, chuckling. "But you should give me a deadline, right? It's been a long time, Rhea!"

Rhea gritted her teeth. "A-A month?"

"Huh?"

"T-Twenty days!" She corrected herself, extending two fingers.

The man simply observed her. Even masked, she perceived his slightly raised eyebrows.

After a silence, Rhea inhaled sharply. "Half a month!"

"Okay! Half a month!" The man accepted her terms. "Rhea, I'm far more tolerant of you than Mike. I only gave him three days; you get half a month. I hope you won't disappoint me. Otherwise, I'll lose my temper! You know I'm unpredictable when angered!"

Her face paled as she nodded. "I understand."

"Very well, you're dismissed. You have much to do, and I imagine you're very busy!" He waved, turning his back. Rhea retreated silently, exiting the room.