She Quit Her Family and Found Herself novel Chapter 17

It was common knowledge that Conrad Atherton was a living legend in the scientific community. He had dedicated his entire life to his research, never marrying and never having children.

To maintain his singular focus, he rarely took on students. Every single person he had ever mentored was now a towering figure in the nation's tech sector.

Brandon Lowe was one of those students. With Conrad now forced to step back due to his health, Brandon had taken over as the acting director of the institute. It was completely fair to call Brandon the old man's direct successor.

Since Conrad no longer accepted apprentices, getting a spot under Brandon was the ultimate prize every ambitious student in the field bled for.

Bertram was genuinely proud that Nadia had secured a place. It meant she was only a few steps away from reaching the absolute pinnacle of the industry.

"Excellent. You truly have the Sterling blood in your veins." Bertram offered her the highest praise he could muster. "Stay focused, stay humble, and absorb everything you can from Dr. Lowe."

"I will."

Having delivered her big news, Nadia cautiously eyed the silent Caspian and carefully took a seat in a chair somewhat close to him.

But the second she sat down, Caspian shot her a glare so icy she nearly jumped out of her skin. She quickly dragged the chair backward, putting several feet of distance between them.

Caspian pulled his gaze away. Having sat in silence the entire time, he finally spoke. "Actually, Conrad's most brilliant and prized student isn't Brandon. Taking that into consideration, becoming Brandon's apprentice isn't exactly the ultimate flex you think it is."

Caspian let out a dark, mocking laugh and turned to stare out the window, saying nothing more.

Bertram noticed his slight shift in mood but didn't dwell on it. Instead, he turned his attention back to Nadia. "I did hear, though, that the institute is getting a new director for their R&D center. Dr. Lowe was only serving as interim. Whoever this new arrival is, they're stepping right into the top spot, which means they have serious backing. There's a very good chance it's that legendary protégé."

All that talking made Bertram thirsty. Ever the observant flatterer, Nadia instantly grabbed a glass of water and handed it to him. "Here, Uncle Bertram."

"Good girl." Bertram looked at her with utter adoration. After taking a sip, he continued his advice. "You'll definitely get the chance to intern at the institute with Dr. Lowe, which means you'll eventually cross paths with this new director. When you do, make sure you show the utmost respect and learn from them. If you can earn that person's approval, you'll be at the very top of the food chain. Whether you decide to stay in academia or come back and take over the corporate empire, that connection will be invaluable."

Nadia's eyes practically sparkled with greed and excitement.