Chapter 40

"The opportunity is right in front of you if you want it." Adrian Klein tapped the table with his slender fingers. "Next October, the National Academy of Sciences will form a gene sequencing research group, open to master's and doctoral candidates. If you get into grad school, you’ll be fully qualified to apply."

The project, led by three distinguished professors, had been approved last year. Though not yet public, it was an open secret at Harvard.

For Evelyn Langley, this was a once-in-a-lifetime chance.

"All the materials are here." He slid a silver flash drive toward her. "Take your time reviewing them."

Her lashes fluttered, eyes shimmering. "Thank you, Adrian. I’ll think it over carefully."

The clock struck ten. Evelyn rose to leave.

Adrian walked her to the foyer.

"We’re literally neighbors. No need for formalities." She waved with a laugh.

His gaze dropped to her fingertips. "Let the wound breathe. Don’t forget to change the dressing."

She instinctively curled her fingers. "Got it."

He returned with a pot of pink-and-blue succulents. "For you."

Plump leaves overlapped like pearls under the light. Evelyn accepted it with delight. "So pretty!"

"Last one at the florist." The corner of his mouth lifted. "Consider it a thank-you gift."

She shook her head. "Friends don’t keep score." Her eyes sparkled like scattered stardust.

"Right." His Adam’s apple bobbed.

In the VIP ward at Massachusetts General Hospital, Julian Roscente swaggered in with an insulated lunchbox.

"See how much I care, Nate?" He unveiled the contents like a prized offering. "Special health-boosting congee. One bowl, and you’ll be back in fighting shape!"

Dylan Lowell’s eyelid twitched at the golden-glowing porridge.

Everyone knew Nathan Evans hated congee—unless a certain someone made it.

Sure enough, Nathan took one half-spoonful and grimaced. "Disgusting."

"Since when?" Julian sniffed it. "Perfect texture, rich aroma."

Nathan tossed the spoon aside. "Get it out of here."

Julian smirked. "Could it be... you’re craving her cooking?" He dragged out the pause. "Too bad she’s now—"

"Get lost." Nathan’s gaze turned glacial.

Dylan hastily yanked his reckless friend away. "Got a death wish?"

In the hallway, Julian shook him off. "Why the act? If he misses her, just say it."

Dylan massaged his temples. "Would it kill you to shut up?"

"Be the matchmaker, then." Julian nudged him. "At this rate, he’ll end up in the ICU from sheer repression."