Listening to her professor's cheerful chatter, Grace felt a warmth spreading through her.
There was none of the Hart family’s coldness here, none of Ethan’s suspicion.
There was only a pure academic atmosphere and the genuine care of a mentor.
She felt like a long-drifting boat that had finally found a safe harbor to dock in.
The administrative procedures were completed quickly.
Dr. Grant then led her to a spacious and bright private office.
“So? What do you think?”
“It’s wonderful, Professor. Thank you.”
“Don’t be so formal with me,” Dr. Grant said with a wave of his hand. “Get settled in. This afternoon, I’ll introduce you to your colleagues on the project team.”
“By the way, you know Dr. Thomas Lane, right? He’s a titan in molecular biology here at the institute. He’s also very impressed with you and specifically requested that you join his core research group.”
“I figured his team has a better platform and more resources, which would be a great help for your future research, so I went ahead and accepted on your behalf.”
Grace nodded. “Of course. I’ll follow your arrangements, Professor.”
She had long heard of Dr. Thomas Lane. He was a highly respected senior figure in the industry, and joining his team was indeed an excellent opportunity for her.
That afternoon, Dr. Grant took Grace to Thomas Lane’s laboratory.
A man in his fifties, slightly overweight and wearing black-framed glasses, was standing at a lab bench instructing a student.
Upon seeing Dr. Grant and Grace, he immediately broke into a wide smile and came over to greet them.
“Ah, Dr. Grant! What a pleasant surprise to have you bring her over personally!”
His gaze fell on Grace, and he extended his hand enthusiastically.
“Grace, from now on, we’re teammates.”
“You’re new, so you might not be familiar with all the procedures at the institute, but don’t worry, I’m here to help.”
“My research group is a key project at the institute. We have ample funding and the most advanced equipment. You’ll be able to fully utilize your talents here.”
Grace listened quietly, nodding politely.
After laying the groundwork, Dr. Lane finally got to the point.
He took a sip of tea and spoke slowly.
“Of course, for a team to operate efficiently, there must be a clear hierarchy.”
“As the principal investigator of this project, I naturally bear the primary responsibility.”
“Therefore, for all upcoming projects, you will be my second-in-command, and all research findings must have me listed as the primary author.”

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