Chapter 167
Josie glanced at several people. “I also learned of this matter by chance. Natalie bears her mother’s last name, and her mother is none other than Audrey, the Deputy Director of the Central Research Institute. Do you still remember the morning of the school competition more than a month ago?”
“I remember,” Adeline nodded. “At that time, you returned to the dormitory with injuries. Later, when we asked what had happened, you said it was a long story and never explained further. Could it be that your injury is related to the Kinberg family?”
Josie shook her head. “No evidence has been found so far, but I do not believe I would be kidnapped without cause. Other than Natalie, I am not aware of having offended anyone else.”
“Kidnapping?” Several people were startled.
Adeline grasped Josie’s hand and asked, “Are you saying that you were kidnapped that night? Were your injuries inflicted by the person who abducted you? Then you…” She dared not imagine exactly what Josie had gone through.
“I’m fine,” Josie held Adeline’s hand. “Sean and his group saved me; those people did not harm me. The reason I am telling you this is to help you understand that Deputy Director Kinberg may not be as benevolent as she appears.”
“Once our project is underway, everyone should remain vigilant when dealing with Deputy Director Kinberg and be careful not to fall for her tricks. In short, one should not harbor the intention to harm others, but should always remain vigilant against others. What do you all think?”
Joseph furrowed his brow and said, “You are right. When I refused Deputy Director Kinberg, her expression was indeed unpleasant. She probably already thinks I am unappreciative. We must be cautious in the future.”
The other two also nodded and said, “Thank you, Josie, for the reminder. We will be mindful.”
Adeline breathed a sigh of relief. “This is such a big deal, and you didn’t say a word about it–you really are something… Anyway, I’m glad you’re okay. Come on, let’s go get something delicious to eat and help you calm your nerves!”
“Yes! Let’s go get something delicious.” Lan picked up Josie’s bag and called everyone to come along.
Josie felt embarrassed and wanted to take back her bag, but was refused. The main problem was that Lan was so energetic, skipping every few steps, that Josie simply couldn’t keep up with him and eventually had to let him go his way. Just as Josie was about to reach the restaurant entrance, someone grabbed her.
“Who is he?” Jaden asked, raising his hand to point at Lan. “Why is your backpack on him?”
Josie let out a laugh of exasperation. “Who are you, and what gives you the right to interfere in my affairs?”
“Josie, don’t be ungrateful. I’m doing this because I care about you,” Jaden said, unable to contain his anger. “As a young lady, how can you so casually allow a guy to carry your bag? Don’t tell me he’s your boyfriend?”
Josie’s expression darkened. “So, the reason you pursued me back then was simply because I’m a young lady? I thought you just wanted an official relationship so you could openly order me around to help with your homework!”
After his feelings were exposed in public, Jaden felt humiliated and lashed out in frustration. “What are you talking about? I’m several grades ahead of you–how could you possibly help with my assignments? It’s obvious that I’m the one chasing after you…”
Jaden suddenly froze. As he looked at Josie, a fleeting sense of confusion washed over him. Compared to when they had first met, Josie was now charming; her large, bright eyes were full of life, and her well-fitted, fashionable clothing further highlighted her poise and elegance. Compared to her former tomboy self, she had become truly endearing; in particular, the smile that unconsciously lifted at the corners of her mouth was even more captivating.
Jaden swallowed and was about to speak when Josie interrupted him sharply, “Don’t say you like me–I can’t accept it. In your eyes, I’m nothing more than the only woman in Professor Lawson’s team. Winning me over is just a symbol of status for you!