Chapter 1341

The unbelievable incident earlier consumed Austin's thoughts. Nothing else, not even the experiment's success, could distract him. Thompson sensed something was amiss. He surmised Austin's previous disdain for Lily stemmed from dissatisfaction and unconvincedness at her success.

He began, "Austin, you've been in the lab for days, working tirelessly. Look at those dark circles! Go home and rest today. You can only continue the experiment when you're in better shape."

"I'm fine, Professor Thompson. I've had enough—"

Before Austin could finish, Thompson interjected, "Don't take this lightly just because you're young. Work is ongoing. Now that this experiment succeeded, things should run smoothly. Don't be too hard on yourself, and don't worry, we still have Lily!"

He glanced happily at Lily. "Go home and rest. Patience is key. You can always continue later."

Austin felt suffocated. Thompson's words, though seemingly concerned, conveyed a subtle dismissal. Lily's return and successful experiment, after Austin's recent struggles, fueled his belief that Thompson now considered him useless. Fury welled within him.

Scoffing, he mocked, "Fine! It seems you have someone better now and no longer need my help. In that case, I'll go rest."

He turned to leave, leaving Thompson momentarily speechless. Thompson attempted to call him back, waving, but to no avail. He sighed, then smiled at Lily, saying helplessly, "Young people these days are so impatient! Fortunately, I was right about you. You're gifted. Besides fragrances, you could achieve great success in medicinal herbs if you pursued it!"

"That's very kind of you, Professor Thompson," Lily replied lightly. "Medicinal herbs are a challenging discipline; mastery is far from easy." She knew from years of learning under Dominic that he wouldn't claim complete mastery. New discoveries always emerged.

Thompson wholeheartedly agreed. "You're right. I've spent a lifetime studying medicinal herbs, and even I wouldn't dare call myself an expert. I can't compare to Mr. Dominic, but I must say, he has terrible judgment in apprentices—no, secret apprentices! Everyone hails Austin as Mr. Dominic's incredibly talented secret apprentice, but he seems quite ordinary to me! Mr. Dominic's choice of secret apprentices is appalling!"

He shook his head, bewildered. Lily remained silent, unsure how to respond.