The Year I Stopped Being His novel Chapter 565

"This is the latest joint investigation from the DSEA and the FBI. They're saying we..." She paused, trying to find a less abrasive word, but ultimately realized there wasn't one. "They're saying we falsified the early-stage data."

"Bullshit!" Sterling slammed his hand onto the desk, making the file jump.

"I have practiced medicine my entire life, and I have never done a single immoral thing! Data falsification? On what grounds—"

"Professor, please calm down."

Vanessa quickly leaned over and closed the file, dropping her voice even lower.

"The DSEA stated that, given your identity and academic standing, these findings are strictly internal. It's classified and won't be released to the public. However—"

She stood up straight. A rare hint of reluctance and apprehension crept into her voice. "The current recommendation from both the FBI and the DSEA is to temporarily release Garrison so he can step in and quell the crisis. After all, the pharmacological effects of Vitas-1 are still potent; it can be relaunched after modification. If you cannot accept this proposal..."

She hesitated, looking conflicted.

"The DSEA will have no choice but to recall all Vitas-1 currently on the market and declare the drug an absolute failure. And then—"

She looked up at Sterling, her eyes filled with unease and the helpless resignation of someone backed into a corner. "They will hold you personally responsible for the fallout."

Sterling didn't say a word.

The office fell terrifyingly silent, save for the steady ticking of the antique clock on the wall.

His fingers tightened around the armrests, his knuckles jutting out sharply.