Chapter 1650

In the face of his interrogation, Rhea did not falter. Instead, she smiled. "Oh? Are you trying to draw attention to me? Mike, remember our differing responsibilities. I'm in charge of research and development; you're in charge of logistics. Besides, isn't Lily an old friend? Don't you know her son quite well? Don't you think you'd be the best person to… acquire her son?"

"It's precisely because I know her well that I can best handle this situation," she added.

Mike squinted, studying her attractive face. The twinkle in her eyes, however, belied her conniving nature. "Rhea, you claim to be in research and development, but what have you actually developed? You've been using products from previous research. You know what the boss wants most, yet you seem to be failing. You're making me doubt your capabilities."

Rhea's expression shifted under his scrutiny. Mike ignored her. "It's no wonder the boss is so eager for Lily to join the team. She's demonstrably superior to you in this area! That person is arriving soon; time is running out! If you can't deliver, you should let everyone know. We can devise a backup plan instead of wasting time waiting for you."

Rhea gritted her teeth, snapping lividly, "The boss recognizes my abilities, and my achievements are internationally renowned! You don't get to question me. If Lily is so amazing, bring her in! Let's compare. I'm curious to see just how good she is. Who's best—her or me?!"

"I'm starting to think some people's bark is far louder than their bite. That's why they resort to manipulation and murder."

"What did you say?!"

"You know exactly what I mean!"

"Mike Corden, explain yourself!"

"Must I be more explicit? Are you implying the car chase and accident involving Lily had nothing to do with you?"

"Enough!" The man observing the exchange intervened. "Why are you arguing? We're on the same side! What's this about? Is Lily worth all this?"

Rhea opened her mouth to retort, but the man's sharp look silenced her.

"Mike, no need for theatrics," the man said. "I'll give you three more days. Three days! If Lily isn't here, my men will handle it. Don't blame me then." Mike, though frowning, merely nodded.

"Okay."

"Good. You're running out of time. Get going." The man dismissed him with a wave.

As Mike turned to leave, the man called out, "By the way, you needn't come tomorrow. We won't need you. It's best to keep a low profile."

"Got it," Mike replied, exiting.

Rhea watched him go, then turned back to the man. "Boss, are you sure you don't want him here tomorrow? Aren't you worried he might be up to something?"

The man grinned evilly. "I'd like to see him try." He added, "Keep an eye on R18 for me. The recent data is underwhelming. See if we still need it; otherwise, scrap it."