Better Late, But Never His Again novel Chapter 5

Three years ago, Hazel was the lead researcher for the Capital Research Institute's anti-cancer drug project. The research had been going on for years and had successfully entered phase two. If things had continued at that pace, they would have hit the human trial stage in no time.

But she had stepped down and become a mere name on the roster, all because of a single request from Julian.

Last year, her mentor passed away, leaving the entire project squarely on the shoulders of his widow, Dr. Queenie Finch. Hazel had considered returning to the Institute multiple times, but her blind devotion to Julian always flared up, and he easily talked her out of it with a few sweet words.

Fortunately, waking up now wasn't too late.

The moment she arrived at the Institute, she heard a group of researchers whispering in the lobby.

"I heard a new researcher is getting parachuted in tomorrow."

"Word is she studied abroad for years and even won an international award. She's super young, too. Right now, funding is everything, and she can definitely help us survive this crisis."

The voices slowly faded away.

Someone was being parachuted into the Institute?

Hazel suddenly remembered what she had overheard in Julian's office yesterday—that Evelyn Vance had miraculously secured a spot at the Capital Research Institute.

Could it really be her?

A heavy feeling settled in Hazel's chest as she quickened her pace toward the administration building.

Queenie's office was at the end of the third floor. The door was slightly ajar, and just as Hazel raised her hand to knock, she heard a heavy sigh from inside.

She pressed her lips together and knocked gently.

"Who is it?" Queenie's voice called out.

"It's me, Queenie."

The moment the door swung open, Hazel saw Queenie freeze. The older woman's eyes instantly welled with tears. "Hazel..."

Hazel lowered her eyes, her voice raspy. "I accidentally ruined it. Do you know anywhere I can get it restored?"

Queenie's expression turned somber. "Hazel, tell me the truth. Did something happen?"

Hazel pressed her lips together tightly, not knowing where to even begin.

Queenie wisely changed the subject. "I do know a place. There's a restoration shop over in the West End. The owner is an absolute master at restoring antique paintings and artifacts, but he has an incredibly eccentric temper and rarely takes on clients. Whether he helps you or not depends entirely on luck."

Hazel nodded. "Okay, I'll go try."

Just as she said that, she suddenly remembered the gossip she had overheard at the entrance. She hesitated before asking, "Professor, is there a problem with the project?"

Queenie paused, then let out a sigh. "How did you know?"

Hazel said, "When I came in just now, I heard some people talking. They said a new researcher is getting parachuted in tomorrow."