Chapter 186: Victoria's Eyes Sparkled with Excitement

"Is this really happening?" Victoria's eyes sparkled with excitement, her voice trembling slightly.

Professor Lenora gave an elegant nod. "Of course."

"I'd love to!" Victoria blurted out eagerly. "Being your student has always been my dream."

She seemed to have completely forgotten she'd just left Professor Miriam's residence.

"Very well. Your name is..."

"Professor Voss, I'm Victoria Holloway, a biology major at Ashford University." Victoria quickly supplied.

"A Ashford University student?" The professor's lips curved in approval. "Your foundation must be solid. Report to Zone C when semester starts. I'll introduce you to the senior researchers."

Senior researchers?

Victoria's pulse quickened. Professor Voss led national-level research projects. If she could join...

This was an elite team even Clara might not qualify for!

Her smile grew sweeter.

Professor Voss approved of her enthusiasm.

Glancing toward Professor Miriam's house, a cold glint flashed in her eyes.

For years, departmental resources had favored Miriam Caldwell. Why?

Just because that old woman had seniority?

Three years without progress on her research topic. Mediocre graduate students.

This year she'd accepted three underqualified candidates, including one who took multiple attempts to pass the entrance exam.

Clearly losing her edge.

Not like her own carefully vetted selection.

Victoria came from wealth—future research funding wouldn't be an issue.

This time, let's see how Miriam Caldwell competes!

* * *

Meanwhile, the so-called "underqualified candidate" Clara Whitmore was gathering gardening tools.

"Weeds cleared, dead branches pruned, all plants watered." She gave detailed instructions. "It's getting colder—wait a few days before watering again."

Professor Miriam sighed. "I'm your advisor, not an elderly patient needing care."

Clara pulled on her down jacket and linked arms with the professor. "Last time you forgot to water... The baby bok choy is washed and ready in the kitchen. The housekeeper can stir-fry it directly."

The older woman endured her fussing with indulgent eyes.

"It's already dark," the professor pretended to scowl. "Now you're more long-winded than me."

Clara laughingly tightened the professor's shawl. "Leaving now. I'll visit again soon."

"Travel safely." Professor Miriam stood at the doorway watching.

Only when the young woman disappeared into the night did the elderly professor's straight posture gradually slump, her smile slowly freezing into something else entirely.