When fate plays its hand
196

Chapter 0196

Paul said, “You can use the lab at any time; there’s no need to clock in daily. Just come whenever you’re free.”

Miranda was currently working on digesting the stack of research papers Christine had given her and keeping up with the latest developments in her field. Now, with an official research project to complete, she was busier than ever.

Paul was aware of her workload. However, he knew that with her capabilities, managing her time well and staying on top of her tasks wouldn’t be a problem.

He then went over the lab’s specific guidelines and precautions with Miranda. Since each lab had different purposes, their rules varied as well. Miranda listened attentively, jotting down the key points in her notebook.

“At the moment, the lab is only being used by my research group. Besides me, there are four other group members. I’ll introduce you to them when we get a… Chance.

Before he could finish, a man in his 40s, who was wearing glasses, emerged from the break room on the

other side.

He was tall and heavily built, resembling a strong bear at first glance, yet he was holding a mug with what appeared to be tea leaves floating in it. There was still steam rising from the cup

“Hey, Paul, did we get a new member in the group?” The man’s curious gaze landed on Miranda, though it didn’t come across as intrusive. Instead, his curiosity was tempered with restraint, displaying politeness and a sense of propriety.

Paul introduced him, “This is Silas Quinton, a colleague of mine and a member of our group. He teaches introductory physics at Bedford College.”

“Hello there,” Silas greeted with a broad smile. His square face radiated an honest, good–natured air–he practically had “I’m an honest guy” written all over him.

Miranda was surprised for a couple of seconds before smiling and shaking his hand. “Hello, Dr. Quinton. I’m Miranda Sutton, Dr. Jefferson’s…”

Uh…

“Friend, I guess.”

Silas raised an eyebrow, his gaze flicking between Paul and Miranda before settling on her. He hadn’t seen Paul bring any friends to the lab before…

“Don’t be so nervous, young lady. You don’t need to call me Dr. Quinton all the time. Just call me Silas. We’re not at high school, so no need for formal titles–we’re all friends here, haha…”

Despite his casual words, Miranda still respectfully addressed him as “Dr. Quinton”

By 9:00 am, the other three group members had arrived one after another.

The first to arrive was Sandy Rivers. She was dressed in a simple sweatshirt, jeans, and sneakers, looking very casual

Chapter 0156

+25 BONUS

Miranda initially thought they were around the same age, but during their conversation, she found out Sandy was 38 and had a son in elementary school.

After earning her PhD, Sandy stayed on at Bedford College, initially doing postdoctoral research in applied physics. When Paul extended an offer, she promptly joined his research group.

Her routine typically revolved around family, school, and the lab, leaving little room for other activities. If she had any leisure interest, it was probably…

Watching TV shows on her tablet while waiting for data in the lab.

A few days ago, her son had a fever. With no one else at home, she went back to care for him for two days before hurrying back to the lab.

Bryan Sundale was the next to arrive, yawning as he entered. He’d been busy tweaking data and had needed help from a downstairs lab group for some calculations.

After spending two days there, he finally got the results today and rushed back.

It was no wonder they all agreed their lab was the best!

Downstairs, the conditions were far worse. Forget about having a dedicated rest area or a shower room

groups there even shared a single bathroom, and the smell was unbearable.

the

As he

she stepped in, he paused, echoing Silas’s earlier question, “Oh, we have a newcomer?”

Bryan looked to be in his early 30s. He was about 5 feet 11 inches tall, with striking features. When he noticed Miranda, a flash of admiration passed through his eyes.

He extended his hand first. “Hi, I’m Bryan Sundale. Welcome to our research group. Everyone here is pretty easy going. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.”

Miranda shook his hand in return, equally friendly. “Thank you.”

As the sound of high heels clicking on the floor approached, the last group member arrived.