The Million-Dollar Heart (Percival and Vivienne) novel Chapter 296

Calista, upon hearing her name called, turned on her heels and made her way up to the podium with a microphone in hand. With an air of confidence, she scanned the crowd below.

"I wouldn't exactly call myself a rising star." She began, shooting a pointed look at Vivienne, who was seated in the corner. "I've merely made some minor medical breakthroughs. But today, in front of my esteemed colleagues, I'd like to share my thoughts."

She proceeded to share her paper, emphasizing her innovative theories.

The audience erupted into applause. Their praise for her work rang out through the room.

The only exception was Vivienne. She was engrossed in a game on her phone, seemingly oblivious to Calista's speech.

Calista couldn't help but let out a quiet scoff. Raising the microphone, she continued, "My achievements pale in comparison to our mentors here. But I've heard that the Brooks family's prodigy, Vivienne, recently performed a challenging surgery on Richard Ellington. I doubt there's another person around who could pull off such a feat."

Her gaze met Vivienne’s, and, from her tone alone, Vivienne could tell that Calista had laid down the gauntlet. "Vivienne, with your surgical prowess, you must have profound insights into the medical field. Why not share some of your experiences with us? Enlighten us, perhaps?"

Calista had shifted all attention to Vivienne.

"Did Vivienne really perform that surgery on Richard? Am I hearing this right?"

"I've never heard of any thesis by her. How could she perform such a complex procedure? Are they just trying to brag?"

"Did Calista get it wrong? Vivienne's only nineteen. How could she have the skills to perform surgery? I bet she can't even hold a scalpel without shaking."

Vivienne slowly lifted her gaze.

She couldn't hold a scalpel without shaking?

A smirk played on her lips as she looked up at Calista on the stage.

She hadn't planned to get involved, but since Calista seemed eager to be put down, she'd comply.

She was very good at setting things straight.

She pocketed her phone as a playful smile spread across her face as she walked up to the stage. "Richard's operation wasn't all that complicated. If you want to hear about it, I don't mind sharing."

Calista watched as Vivienne sauntered up to her. There was not a hint of panic in her expression.

Her heart was pounding in her chest.

What was going on?

How was she not scared?

She had searched Vivienne's name online. The girl had never even published a paper, let alone made any significant research contributions.

Relieved, Calista smiled at Vivienne. "In that case, Vivienne, please do enlighten us."

Vivienne began to speak about the surgery. Her words flowed effortlessly as she spoke with the elegance of a seasoned medical veteran. "Richard's injury was near his heart, and he had an underlying condition. An intervention at one point affected the whole system..."

As Vivienne spoke, Calista's expression grew increasingly grim.

What on earth was happening?

Vivienne's knowledge was shocking. Even PhDs in the field would struggle to keep up.

"I've proposed a theory on DNA replication. By replicating DNA through specific methods, many complex problems can be solved."

Vivienne shrugged nonchalantly. "This technology has already been realized and will soon be implemented in hospitals for practical use."

"It's impossible. Vivienne can't be Eunice." Calista, standing at the side, clenched her fists as her eyes glowed with extreme jealousy. She watched as the crowd that had just been singing her praises her was now practically worshiping Vivienne.

"Though Vivienne has her insights in the field." She forced herself to remain calm, desperately trying to turn the tide. "There's no way she could be the legendary Eunice."

"When Eunice published her papers, Vivienne was just a few years old. We can't take such a joke lightly. Perhaps Vivienne could clarify this for us."

Vivienne crossed her arms and stood amid the crowd as she cast an icy stare at Calista.

Eunice was a name her mother had once used, under which she had published many medical patents. She had used this name to publish her papers, partly to honor her mother and partly because she preferred to stay out of the limelight so she could avoid unnecessary attention.

She never felt the need to clarify or explain anything to anyone.

Upon witnessing the scene, Professor Madison countered sternly. "Vivienne's abilities are beyond question. She completed her thesis without a shred of help and even supported my experimental process. Why would such a talent need to cheat?"

As he spoke, he displayed Vivienne’s thesis and her awards on the screen for everyone to see.

In the field of medicine, Professor Madison was a revered and respected veteran; his words naturally packed a punch.

Especially when it came to Vivienne's achievements. Each one was a masterpiece in the industry, a feat no one could match.

Who could possibly help her cheat?

"Indeed, Eunice's capabilities are clear for all to see." The crowd began to lean in Vivienne's favor, speaking up for her. "If Calista doesn’t believe it, maybe she should reflect on herself. Why can’t she produce such research results?"

"I reckon some people are just green with envy and just want to question Eunice's paper. They don't even consider their own weight before criticizing Eunice."

"If you can't keep up, then shut up! Stop prattling about and annoying everyone!"