Chapter 1231

The man in the white suit, though young, possessed an alluring charm and elegance. Heads turned as he entered, and acquaintances immediately surrounded him. "Mr. Fike, you're here!" "We've been waiting for you!"

"Mr. Fike, I heard the research institute's new project is intriguing. Will you discuss it today?"

"Mr. Fike, why are you alone? Is your teacher… coming?"

Maria had been wary; amongst this group, secrets spread like wildfire. Many believed Austin was Dominic's secret apprentice, an assumption fueled by their shared surname. Why else would Dominic take on such a young, secret apprentice? Even Dominic's closest friends remained unaware.

The young man paused, smiling warmly at his questioners. "My professor is busy with research at the institute," he explained. "He rarely attends such events. I'm here as his representative."

The "teacher" he referenced was his academic mentor, not the person everyone suspected. While the crowd understood, some might interpret his response as a guilty deflection. And guilt, they reasoned, would confirm his status as Dominic's secret apprentice.

This circle held an almost obsessive admiration for Austin, fueled not only by his qualifications and youthful fame for his exceptional acupuncture skills. He'd cured various illnesses, including a renowned figure's wife who had been ill for years. Countless people sought his treatment, but he remained inaccessible, making even a meeting, let alone apprenticeship, extremely difficult. Meeting Dominic's secret apprentice, therefore, was considered a great honor.

"Yes, yes. Regarding medical herbs, knowledge is limitless. Mr. Fike's professor is our role model," someone praised, leading the way. "Mr. Fike, this way, please."

Austin raised his hands, smiling apologetically. "Sorry, but I have something to do. I'll talk to you later." His gaze swept the room, settling on a figure in the corner. He headed straight for her.

Lily had just finished eating and accepted a dish from a passing waiter. As she sipped her drink, she noticed a man approaching. He drew considerable attention.

"Ms. Christian," he greeted politely.

"Hello," Lily smiled and nodded. "You must be Mr. Fike from the Institute of Medical Herbs. Nice to meet you!"

"I don't like beating around the bush. Why do you want to suspend our research?" he asked directly.

"Why didn't you reply to my message?" Lily countered without hesitation.

Austin was taken aback, momentarily hesitating before she continued. "Don't give me the 'missed message' excuse. You've checked your phone three times since arriving. You don't seem the type to leave your phone behind."

Initially, Lily had assumed he'd missed it; some researchers, she knew, were so engrossed in their work that they barely touched their phones.