After All the Hurt, She Chose Herself novel Chapter 132

Aria, however, was still in a daze.

She showed no reaction at all.

"Causing a ruckus the moment you're back." Aldous Evernight had heard Eveline's voice from his room and came out, leaning on his cane. "What are you making a fuss about this time?"

Eveline knew she was in the wrong and immediately deflected. "I came back, and Aria didn't even say a word to me. Is that how a daughter-in-law is supposed to act?"

Aldous Evernight glanced at Aria. "She's pregnant. You should be more accommodating!"

Aria subconsciously touched her stomach at his words.

The old man's concern for this child had reached an obsessive level.

Aria didn't believe he genuinely cared for her, which was why he prized this child so much.

There had to be a reason she didn't know about.

"An invitation came from the Brent family. The matriarch's birthday banquet has been moved up to tomorrow night. You'll take Aria with you."

Aldous Evernight had a servant hand the invitation to Eveline.

"Gideon and Aria have been married for three years. Things are different now, and it's time to make it public. We need to avoid rumors that this child is just a pawn to gain status. That wouldn't be good for the child's reputation."

Aria couldn't help but sneer inwardly.

He was already thinking about the child's reputation before it was even born.

Eveline reluctantly agreed.

"I've already spoken with Alden Reaves, Aria. You must attend tomorrow."

Aria nodded obediently. "I understand, Grandfather."

***

After dealing with them, Aria returned to her room.

Her phone dinged a few times.

Aria straightened her clothes and opened the door.

"Aren't we just waiting for the equipment to arrive at the lab before we can start the research?"

Raphael nodded, but spoke with some difficulty. "That's right. But the higher-ups are taking this project very seriously. They heard that Dawn has no plans to make a public appearance at the moment, and they're worried your abilities might not be sufficient, so…"

"Am I holding things back?" Aria understood his implication. "How do I need to prove my abilities to them?"

A genetic disease. Across the globe, it was the lifelong pursuit of countless researchers. If Aria, with just a flimsy title as a representative, was able to get a piece of the pie, it was indeed a bit unfair.

Since she was going to join a top-tier research team, Aria would naturally have to show her true skills.

"Raphael, I'm currently working on a neurological drug study that has already shown some progress. I can submit this research as my ticket to join the core research team."

"Would that be acceptable?" Aria asked, a little uncertain. "Although this research is minor compared to the genetic disease, its integrative approach is similar in principle to Dawn's work."

"The board can only give you two weeks. Do you think that's enough time?"

"Yes." Aria wouldn't let any opportunity slip by. "I will definitely prove myself to the institute!"