Chapter 435: Do You Have a Boyfriend?

Olive is her father's biological daughter, and when the DNA paternity test results arrive, Crystal's life will be irrevocably altered. All her possessions will become Olive's, and she, the imposter, will be expelled. Damien, seated in his office chair, his handsome face impassive, simply nodded and said, "Go." "Yes, sir," replied the personal butler, departing.

Crystal swiftly descended the stairs and concealed herself in the restaurant. She observed the butler emerge, carrying a sealed, transparent plastic bag. A plan formed in her mind. She quickly procured a glass of water, smiled sweetly, and said, "Uncle, you've worked hard behind my dad's back all these years. Drink some water." The butler politely but distantly smiled, "Thank you, young lady, but there's no need."

"Oh," Crystal cried, feigning an accident as she spilled the water onto the butler. "I'm so sorry, Uncle. I was careless." She hastily produced a tissue to dab at his wet clothes. "Your clothes are soaked; you can't go out like that. Why don't you go upstairs and change?"

His clothes dripping, the butler accepted her suggestion. He placed the plastic bag on the sofa before heading upstairs, saying, "Young lady, I'm leaving this here. The contents are very important and mustn't be touched."

"Okay, I'll keep an eye on it," Crystal assured him. The butler disappeared into the guest room. Crystal, certain she was alone, swiftly opened the bag, removed Olive's hair, and added a strand of her own. She then resealed the bag.

She felt bolder than she had in years. Her father's butler was meticulous; to act so audaciously in his presence was a considerable risk. Yet, she couldn't wait. This opportunity was too valuable to pass up. Her heart pounded, but she had succeeded in altering the evidence. The DNA test would now indicate that her father and Olive were not related. His doubts would be permanently erased. Next, she would persuade her father to help her marry Elvis. His support would ensure success! A smug smile spread across her face.

The butler reappeared, freshly attired. Crystal quickly said, "Uncle, I'll watch this bag; no one will touch it." He glanced at her, a cryptic expression in his eyes, before saying, "Thank you. I'll be going now."

At the academic forum, Olive and Academic Dickson sat among the medical professionals—their seating pre-assigned. Olive noted Elvis among the Imperial nobility seated to the right, his position a clear indication of his status as a rising business magnate.

The presenter announced, "Now, I invite Professor Hart to deliver her lecture. A round of applause, please!" Olive’s presentation was the highly anticipated finale. Academic Dickson smiled, "Olive, go. Don't be nervous. This is your stage."

"Yes," Olive replied, gracefully taking the stage. Her bright eyes calmly surveyed the audience as she began, "Hi everyone, I'm Olive. I'm honored to share my latest research with you. I'll be discussing the nervous system…"

Elvis watched, captivated. The spotlight illuminated her; this was her stage. Her eyes shone brilliantly, like stars. Her speech was streamed live across social media, even appearing on large screens throughout Imperial, halting the city's rhythm to witness this young woman's compelling presentation. She radiated confidence and conviction.

An hour later, thunderous applause erupted as the lecture concluded. Distinguished medical figures nodded approvingly. "Incredibly, in such a short time, Olive has made a new breakthrough! The vitality of youth!" one exclaimed. "What a find for Academic Dickson!" another added. "A top performer, this twenty-year-old Professor Hart!"

Twenty years earlier, Imperial had flourished with the arrival of Joyce Brown and Anabelle Midas. Twenty years later, Olive's arrival had rekindled that same energy. Today, she commanded her own stage, her fame encompassing the city.

Elvis watched, his gaze unwavering. He remembered her arrival by train that spring; now, it was winter. He had been by her side since her arrival, witnessing her growth. The audience, filled with brilliant minds, enthusiastically applauded, many rising to their feet in admiration.

Then, someone called out, "Professor Hart, your lecture was insightful! May I add you on Facebook and ask some questions privately?"

Medical experts reacted with amused derision. "Asking for advice is a pretense; the Facebook request is the real goal. Unbelievable!"

The atmosphere intensified, the eminent figures eager for private communication with Olive. Then, a deep, masculine voice cut through the excitement: "Professor Hart, do you have a boyfriend?"