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After Joseph discussed with his teammates, everyone except two third–year graduate students–who plan to return to their hometowns for work after graduation–agreed to join the Central Research
Institution.
He intended to ask Delilah whether Adeline, who was currently only a senior undergraduate, could also undertake an internship at the research institute. On the way to the faculty building, they happened to meet Josie and Claire, so the four of them came together.
“That won’t be a problem. She can come with Josie at the scheduled time. My project is currently very short–staffed. If the Central Research Institution is unable to accept you due to grade restrictions, you’re welcome to join us at Aloville Traditional Medicine Hospital. The two institutions work closely together, so your participation will not affect your prospects.”
Delilah assured, “However, I have one condition: on my team, everyone is expected to contribute and prove their value–no one can just coast. If you don’t perform, I won’t make any exceptions.”
“Please rest assured, Professor Reedshaw. I will do my best,” Adeline said. She felt a bit apprehensive, but the thought of working alongside Josie gave her some reassurance.
Joseph smiled and said, “To prevent unforeseen complications, I would like to sign the project proposal first. What do you think, Professor Reedshaw?”
“Oh well…” Delilah was amused. “I heard that Deputy Director Kinberg from the Central Research Institute has approached you. At this point, shouldn’t you not be anxious? Why are you even more
anxious than we are?”
Joseph’s smile deepened. “Having just entered society, I do not consider myself a particularly intelligent person, nor do I possess strong determination. I may not be able to withstand temptation. Therefore, having made my decision, I do not wish to give myself a chance to regret it later.”
The statement carried a double meaning: while it ostensibly referred to his own lack of self–discipline, it also implicitly suggested a fear that Audrey might use improper means to sway him. After all, everyone present was well aware that Audrey was certain to secure the Grand Prize project.
Josie also believed that it was advisable to finalize the project proposal as early as possible. Based on her understanding of Audrey, she was unlikely to abandon the matter easily; it was possible that she would exert pressure on the school or privately coerce or entice members of Joseph’s team.
Delilah gave Joseph an extra glance, thinking, ‘He really is a clever man of integrity. By putting all the uncomfortable truths on the table from the start, I’m also giving myself more flexibility later. I have to say, Josie has a keen eye for people–helping someone like him!‘
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“Alright, come with me. We’ll go to the principal’s office now to file the project. As for the formal project proposal, I’ll have Jeremy prepare it first and notify you as soon as it’s ready.”
Upon hearing this, Joseph inwardly clenched his fist. He was keenly aware that this step was the
correct one.
Anyone familiar with university faculty dynamics was likely aware of the ongoing tension between Professors Reedshaw and Lawson. At the time, Natalie was a member of David’s team, and Audrey was her mother.
It indirectly put him at odds with both the Kinbergs and the Reedshaws. At that point, if he hesitated or left opportunities for Audrey Kinberg to exploit, he risked alienating both sides at once.
He was uncertain about what the future held; however, all he sought was an opportunity to remain at the central research institute and a platform to conduct research in earnest.
Since Josie had helped him establish a connection with the Reedshaw family, and he had now become an intern under Jeremy, there was no longer any need to maintain a neutral stance; choosing a side was only a matter of time.
Josie quietly breathed a sigh of relief–now that the principal had served as a witness. There was no way Audrey could take the project away unless she was truly shameless.
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