Chapter 359

Shermaine's return to the country sparked widespread attention, even making the evening news. As the reporter recounted her achievements, Jameson finally understood why. Shermaine had represented Basterel University at the Academic Exchange Conference and solved a world-class mathematical puzzle—a feat that cemented her status as a luminary in the field. She was extraordinary. She was Professor Jean, the renowned figure abroad. When the news segment delved into her rise to fame, even the doctors and nurses watching alongside Jameson were awestruck.

The young woman on screen wasn't only Dr. Jean, but also the literary world's celebrated Professor Jean. The medical staff murmured in admiration. Jameson's heart raced as he watched Shermaine being swarmed by admirers. This was his daughter, yet he had never truly seen her, only belittled her at every turn. He had no right to scorn her; Shermaine was a titan in her fields, her brilliance undeniable. Jameson couldn't hold a candle to her.

Once, Jameson had consoled himself with the thought that she was "just a woman." Now, regret curdled in his gut. In the news, the reporter asked, "Ms. Jean, you're already an esteemed professor abroad. Why return to completing an undergraduate degree here?"

Shermaine smiled. "Back then, I hated hearing criticisms but couldn't exactly flaunt my credentials, not that anyone would have believed me. Mostly, I skipped high school for early studies abroad. No SATs, no prom… It felt like a missing chapter."

At the segment's end, the reporter blurted, "Ms. Jean, may I have your autograph?" "Of course," Shermaine nodded. The screen cut to a mob of reporters clamoring for signatures before shifting to the next news piece.

A nurse gasped, cheeks flushed. "Dr. Zimmer, Shermaine is Dr. Jean, right?" Luke Zimmer nodded. "Must be." "Let's ask Dr. Shelly!" "Good idea." They filed out, buzzing with excitement, leaving Jameson shell-shocked in his bed.

Dread pooled in Jameson's chest. He thought, 'Did they just say… Shermaine is Dr. Jean? If so, would she ever operate on me?' The answer was obvious. In Danielle's ward, a crowd of medical staff pressed for confirmation. Even in a hospital gown, one leg encased in plaster, her beauty and elegance remained undimmed. She closed her book, smiling. "Dr. Jean and Professor Jean are one and the same." Danielle thought proudly, 'Shermaine is just that brilliant!'