Chapter 1380

"What guinea pig? I don't understand a word you're saying today," Fabian said, blinking in bewilderment.

Maria explained eagerly, "Didn't I tell you Tasia trusts Lily and eats at her house every day? She thinks Lily's a good person helping her lose weight! But the miracle doctor told us Lily's working with him in a lab and only recently learned herbal medicine. She lacks experience and is using Tasia as a guinea pig! Tasia's so silly to think Lily cares. Who'd truly be good to her besides family? In our society, who doesn't prioritize self-interest? No one helps unless there's something to gain!"

Shaking her head, Maria turned to Rhea. "Fortunately, you're smart and capable. If you were like that silly girl, I'd be worried sick!"

Rhea curled her lips. "You used to say she was pretty and smart when we were young."

Embarrassment crossed Maria's face. "I only said that to please her father! I've explained this before, haven't I? Why are you still holding a grudge? You're my daughter. Of course, you're my favorite!"

"So that's why!" Fabian exclaimed, slapping his thigh. "I must tell Ron. The Russells are outrageous! Treating Tasia as a guinea pig!"

"Yes, tell Ron. He must never give them the contract," Maria agreed.

Rhea, uninterested, turned and walked away. "I'm going back to my room."

"Hey, Rhea, what about lunch?" Maria called after her.

"I'm not going. I'll change and return to the lab," Rhea's voice drifted from upstairs.

"Why...?" Maria looked helpless. "Why is she going back to the lab again? She's become such a nerd! Aren't you going to do something about it?"

"What can I do?" Fabian asked. "Since she was young, she's excelled in her studies and work. Mind your own business. If she enjoys the lab, let her. It's better than getting into trouble elsewhere, right?"

"I worry she'll never find a boyfriend," Maria sighed, helpless. She knew her daughter was strong-willed, making it difficult to influence her decisions.

Meanwhile, in the office, Thompson reported on the project's progress. "So far, we have three finished products, and I believe we'll have more soon." He was pleased with the results, confident they were on the right track.

"I don't care about those. What I want hasn't been created!" the masked man said icily.

"I know. It should be soon! Shortly after this achievement," Thompson replied carefully.

"Soon? You said that a month ago! When will it be finished?" Mr. R slammed his fist on the table. "Can you do it or not? Should I keep the lab running?"