Three Years Forgotten, Why Go Crazy When I Say Goodbye? novel Chapter 427

After flawlessly answering the technical questions, Jayden seamlessly pivoted to cover for Vivienne. "Ms. Sinclair is actually quite familiar with these protocols. We had an in-depth discussion about these very metrics a few days ago, and her insights were incredibly constructive. I imagine she's just a bit caught off guard by the on-the-spot quiz."

While his excuse did little to mask her actual incompetence, it effectively diffused the suffocating tension in the room and saved her from total public humiliation.

Professor Smith's stern expression softened marginally. He looked back at Vivienne. "You must consistently operate at this level of proficiency if you want a spot in my lab."

"Understood, Professor. I will redouble my efforts," she promised smoothly.

As soon as Smith and his team walked away, Vivienne ground her teeth together, mentally cursing the man. You arrogant old fossil. You intentionally tried to embarrass me. I'll let you play god for a few more days because you're still useful. But the second this project is secured, we'll see if I ever give you the time of day again.

By the time the lab sessions concluded, it was already noon. Under the guise of wanting to learn more, Vivienne invited Jayden out for lunch. However, the moment they were seated in the upscale restaurant, she remained dead silent, not offering a single word of conversation.

Seeing her icy demeanor, Jayden raised an eyebrow and took the initiative. "I thought you brought me here to ask for guidance. Why so quiet?"

Vivienne let out a faint, cynical scoff. She met his gaze, her eyes devoid of any warmth. "Did you really think I gave a damn about those technical questions?"

"Ah. My mistake, then," Jayden chuckled. The smile was strange, entirely detached, and didn't reach his eyes—a look that made people instinctively uncomfortable.

"Are you certain this will work?" she asked, her interest undeniably piqued.

"We won't know until we try," Jayden said, radiating a relaxed confidence. "Unlike securing a spot in the core lab, this objective doesn't require top-tier security clearance or elite technical expertise. Plus, you're a New York native with a silver tongue and an extensive social network. If you pull this off, the Professor will look at you in a completely different light."

Vivienne was thoroughly sold. "And how do you guarantee he'll assign this task to me?"

"Leave the logistics to me. You don't need to worry about a thing."