Chapter 712

Anthony remembered things well. He distinctly recalled that Lottie’s last report had been normal, except for one new gene sequence called HG21. Now, this latest report showed yet another new sequence.
Was Lottie’s genetic makeup actually changing?
“The report really is different,” Dr. David said, his tone serious as he caught Anthony’s reaction. “I noticed the anomaly, but I haven’t had the chance to let Charlotte know yet.”
Anthony kept his eyes on the report, his expression tight. He might not have had a medical degree, but even he knew how serious genetic changes could be.
“Do you know what’s causing it?” he asked.
Dr. David shook his head. “No. So far, though, HG21 seems to be coexisting with Charlotte’s own genes. We haven’t found any negative effects.”
He paused, looking troubled. “But it’s strange. Our institute has been studying this for a while, and we haven’t figured out the cause of the changes in Charlotte’s genes. We don’t even know what HG21 actually is.”
This new gene was just too bizarre.
“Just because it’s not causing problems now doesn’t mean it won’t in the future,” Anthony muttered, rubbing his forehead. “Isn’t that right?”
“That’s true,” Dr. David agreed. “But don’t worry too much. Charlotte knows her own body. If something feels off, she’ll notice right away.”
Anthony tucked the report away, his eyes darkening. “Don’t tell her about this until after the competition. And make sure the HG21 research keeps moving. If you need anything, just let me know.”
As soon as he said that, Dr. David’s tired eyes suddenly lit up. “We’re good on everything else. It’s just… funding
Anthony nodded, then pulled out his phone and made a call. His voice was cool and matter-of-fact. “Transfer one billion dollars to N Organization’s lab budget.”
The researchers nearby froze, stunned by what they’d just heard. Some even dropped their instruments in shock.
A billion dollars.
No wonder Adonis always said that, for all his power, Anthony was actually a pretty easygoing boss.
Looking at him now, he didn’t seem so intimidating after all.
***
Ten hours later, the plane touched down safely at Solenia Airport.
Contestants from all over the world had landed at the same time for the competition.
Eldoria had two representatives this year: Charlotte and Letty.
For the past few years, every award
had gone to foreign participants. This time, Letty was one of the favorites to win. Ever since she left for the competition, the internet had exploded with support for her. Given her research background, most people thought she was the one we could finally break the foreign winning streak and bring home some glory.
Charlotte’s situation was different. Some people online were speculating about her background while others were just waiting to see her mess up. There were even rumors that she’d only gotten he invitation because of her family connections.
Once off the plane, Charlotte walked ahead. Jackson and Adonis followed behind, hauling the luggage.
They hadn’t walked far when they bumped into Letty, who had just stepped off the plane as well.
Letty stopped and offered a faint
smile. “Charlotte, there are three net
spots in the International Medical Division this time. Thope you make it
It was pretty clear she thought her own spot was guaranteed.
Charlotte just lifted her head, her eyes cool and unreadable as she glanced at Letty.
Without a word, she walked right past her.
Jackson shot Letty a blank look, his voice flat but somehow cutting. “Clown.”
Adonis didn’t bother hiding his annoyance. “Idiot.”
Letty’s smile faltered, then disappeared completely.