Chapter 161: The Real Researcher

Even Professor Martin shared the stunned silence. No one anticipated this. Moments before, they confidently asserted the impossibility of such research; the next, they faced a stark contradiction.

Seeing the report in Jonathan's hands, their expressions shifted. Evan's face went pale. He'd always believed the only differences between himself and Jonathan were time, experience, and a groundbreaking achievement. Now, he understood the chasm separating them was immense.

Jonathan had completed this research alone. He understood its difficulty; even tireless effort wouldn't yield such results in a few months, or even a year. Yet, Jonathan had succeeded.

This was a crushing blow to Evan's pride.

Bradley watched, frowning. Everyone focused on the report, ignoring his brother and the Xander family. Jonathan had successfully commanded everyone's attention. He'd known Jonathan was exceptional during their studies, but not to this extent.

They had lost this round. The internet now buzzed with praise for Jonathan.

“My god! The difference between smart and genius! I thought Evan was good, but…there's someone better!”

“How else did he become a guest professor at Northwind University before 30? He’s even an honorary professor!”

“Although I don't know what this research does, seeing those experts' reactions, it must be extraordinary.”

“The thing is…he's so hot!”

Soon, "hot professor" trended. This wasn't the outcome Jonathan desired. This was Sierra's hard work, and it shouldn't be overshadowed. Just as he was about to speak, someone interjected, “Mr. Yeager, why protect Sierra so much? Have you considered public belief and her accountability for this?”

The speaker was Denise, seething with jealousy. Her image no longer mattered. From the moment she saw Jonathan, she’d been infatuated. For him, she'd even studied a subject she despised to get closer. But he'd barely acknowledged her, instead fiercely protecting Sierra. How was Sierra better? She was loved; who was Sierra?

Jonathan smirked at her words. Just as he was about to defend Sierra, she stepped forward. “Did I ever say this was my research?”

“I wasn’t involved. Sierra did all the work, without an assistant.”

Everyone deemed it impossible.

Evan was the first to speak. “Jonathan, you don't need to create false statements for her. No one will believe it.” He could accept losing to Jonathan, but not Sierra.

Jonathan's eyes turned cold. He was about to respond when Sierra said, “Do you think only those born with silver spoons have the right to conduct research?”

She’d remained silent until now, unconcerned. Even if it involved Jonathan, she wouldn't care. But Evan's questioning ignited her fury.

Her eyes, filled with mockery, fell upon Evan, Professor Martin, and the experts. In the past, they'd seemed unreachable, distant stars. Now, they were merely clowns, judging by stereotypes. Because she was unknown, lacked connections, no one believed her. But today, she would strike back hard. She would show them that even someone from the bottom could surpass them all.

With that, she stepped forward. The venue had a projector and computers. She plugged in her USB drive, filled with her research records.