After her impressive performance dissecting the exam paper, Anastasia's reputation at the institute was soaring. Although she was the youngest person there, Global Harmony was a place where skill trumped all else. No one dared to look down on her because of her age.
Within ten minutes, all fifteen students had arrived.
Cora was among them.
"Anastasia, what did you call us here for?" someone asked curiously.
Anastasia cut straight to the chase. "I'm not sure if you've heard of Unison Pharma Ltd. It's my company."
"Right now, our research department is short-staffed. I was wondering if any of you would be interested in joining? The benefits and compensation will be excellent. I'll also be recruiting more researchers, so the workload won't be overwhelming and it won't interfere with your studies here."
"If you're interested, we can sign a contract today."
This was Anastasia’s solution.
The students at Global Harmony were more than qualified to work in a research department. Their admission to the institute alone was a testament to their exceptional abilities.
Everyone was surprised by her offer. They exchanged uncertain glances.
Just then, Cora spoke up. "Isn't Unison Pharma Lauren's company?"
Anastasia looked at her, a faint, unreadable smile on her lips. She didn't elaborate, only saying, "Unison Pharma was an inheritance left to me by my mother."
Her words stunned Cora and everyone else in the room.
"Your mother… left it to you?" Cora asked, bewildered.
"Why? Did Lauren claim it was hers?" Anastasia replied with a knowing look.
Cora mumbled awkwardly, "...Maybe I misremembered."
***
Outside Unison Pharma, in a nearby café.
Jonas walked in and immediately spotted Lauren in a booth. A look of delight and affection crossed his face.
"Lauren!"
He strode toward her.
Lauren had been waiting for ten minutes. She turned as he approached.
As Jonas got closer, he noticed her pale, weary complexion. He couldn't hide his concern. "Have the last few days been rough for you?"

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