Chapter 529

Chapter 529:
Stella blinked. Paul?
She headed to his office. He was just setting down his coffee cup when she walked in.
“Sylvia, you’re here. Have a seat.”
“Mr. Hoffman, is something wrong?”
Paul laced his fingers together and studied her. “You’ve probably heard—our institute is now collaborating with the Briggs Group. This afternoon, a new member will be joining the team—Nina Carter. Mr. Briggs mentioned it to you, right?”
Stella nodded. “Yes, he did. I’ll give my best on the project, Mr. Hoffman.”
Paul waved it off. “That’s not what I meant. Don’t feel pressured. Just do your part. Nina’s not your average newcomer—she’s got quite the reputation in international research circles.”
Stella had proven herself with outstanding work on both isolated tests and follow-up experiments, but Paul wasn’t sure if she could match someone like Nina.
“If this project is too challenging for you, you may just let it go,” he added.
The message was clear. He wasn’t doubting her—just concerned. Stella understood, but she wasn’t about to back down without a fight.
“Mr. Hoffman, I know Nina’s strong. But I don’t think I’m weak either. It’s not over until it’s over.”
Giving up before the race even started? That just wasn’t her.
Paul noticed the resolve in Stella’s eyes. He lifted his coffee mug and took a sip before speaking. “Since you’re brimming with confidence, we’ll place our trust in you. This afternoon, when Nina Carter arrives, you’re coming along with me to greet her at the front.”
Excitement surged through Stella. She flashed him a broad grin and replied, “Understood!”
Right on time, Nina made her entrance at the research institute later that day.
Stella was well-acquainted with the institute’s welcoming rituals. Having been received with the same warmth when she returned from her own intensive, closed-door experiment, she knew the drill. Every time newcomers arrived, the staff would gather to greet them.
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Unbothered by the ceremonial formalities, she took her place beside Paul, quietly watching as Nina strode in through the main doors.
A step ahead, Paul greeted Nina with a friendly smile. “You must be Nina Carter. We’re thrilled you’re joining us. Allow me to introduce our lead researcher, Sylvia Gilbert.”
With a glance that barely lingered on Stella, Nina remained distant.
She kept her tone even, almost too calm, as she responded, “There’s no need for any grand welcome. I came here to work on the project. Please, continue as you normally would.”
Though polite, her words carried an undercurrent of superiority.
Paul had wanted Stella to guide Nina around, showing her the lay of the land. Before he could finish, Nina cut in, saying, “That’s not necessary. I’ll get familiar with everything on my own. Don’t bother giving me a tour.” She’d find the cafeteria herself when it was time to grab a bite.
After being brushed off twice, Paul decided not to insist further.
Curiosity rippled through the room as people caught sight of Nina’s frosty demeanor. Most decided she was not one for friendly chitchat and hurried back to their desks.
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