Chapter 218: Celia Monroe Hurried to the Computer

Celia Monroe hurried to the computer. The repair technician tactfully vacated the seat.

The progress bar crawled upward on the screen. Only the clatter of keyboards filled the lab.

Elise Warren stamped her foot impatiently. "How much data has been recovered?"

Celia stared at the monitor, her nails digging unconsciously into her palms. "...Almost all of it."

Elise peered at the screen and broke into a grin. "Perfect! Ninety-nine percent recovered!"

She threw her arms around Clara Whitmore. "Thank goodness you thought of this solution. We'd have been pulling an all-nighter otherwise!"

"Typical Ashford University genius," the technician said, giving a thumbs-up. "Brilliant move."

Theo Marsh's eyes sparkled. "Clara, you're our savior!"

He suddenly winked mischievously. "Professor Mercer clearly has an eye for talent, recruiting you so early."

Elias Mercer's expression remained neutral, but his knuckles whitened imperceptibly.

Catching himself, he relaxed his fist, unable to suppress the ripple of emotion in his chest.

Felix Moreau circled Clara twice. "Are you some kind of hidden prodigy?"

Clara: "..."

Elise and Theo burst into laughter.

Only Celia stood in the shadows, her gaze dark enough to drip venom.

Elise glanced around—

Elias massaged his temples in exasperation.

Felix stole glances at Celia.

Celia fixed Clara with a death glare.

Suddenly, the lab felt more dramatic than a soap opera.

She made a mental note to bring popcorn to work tomorrow.

* * *

The computer virus incident was serious.

At best, an accident. At worst, a security breach.

Elias's voice turned icy. "This requires a full investigation."

The technician nodded. "The university has already launched an inquiry."

By the time they wrapped up, city lights glittered outside the windows.

As the team dispersed, Elias stayed behind to finalize things.

Clara returned alone to her apartment and collapsed onto the sofa.

Her phone buzzed suddenly.

A message from Elias appeared:

«Found the virus source. Thanks for today.»

Clara bolted upright:

«That fast?»