“Juniper, what did you just say?” Byron’s neck went stiff. He couldn't believe his ears.
“It seems your hearing problem is quite serious. You should get to a hospital soon, don't delay.” Juniper looked up, her gaze on Byron pointed and meaningful, her attitude both polite and sincere.
Byron’s face turned ashen with rage, his lips trembling.
“Goodbye.” Juniper gave Byron a slight nod, then sauntered off toward Tucker's office, cake box in hand. She ran into him halfway there.
“Professor Tucker, good morning.” Juniper handed him the cake. “You should put this in the fridge before it melts.”
“Ah, right!” Tucker looked from Juniper to the furious-looking Byron standing a short distance away, and he understood immediately. It seemed Byron's threats and bribes had no effect on this girl.
Tucker clutched his chest, letting out a heavy sigh of relief. This girl might be young, but she was a natural talent in computer science. With a little guidance, she was destined for greatness. He'd been so worried last night he couldn't sleep, terrified she'd run off with a fraud like Byron. Thank goodness!
“Come on, I need you to look at some data for me,” Tucker said, his face breaking into a wide grin as he led Juniper inside. She never once glanced back at Byron as her figure disappeared into the office.
Byron remained frozen in place, the blood draining from his face. His sunken, triangular eyes were fixed on the direction they had gone, a deep hatred welling within them.
How dare that little brat look down on him? In all his decades, he had never been so insulted.
Fine. He would make her regret today's decision!
...
Inside the computer lab.

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