Mike wasn't jealous, but he always suspected the boss distrusted everyone. Therefore, he was surprised Rhea knew the safe's passcode.

As Rhea retrieved a slightly yellowed kraft paper bag from inside and turned, Lily glimpsed a small jar. However, before she could examine it further, Rhea shut the safe. The door clicked shut, locking automatically. Rhea, holding the paper bag, turned to them and laughed. "You guys didn't try to peek while I entered the code, did you?" Her tone was half-joking, half-serious.

Mike chuckled coldly. "You blocked our view so effectively. Who could have seen anything?" After a pause, he added, "Besides, the lab's passcode changes daily. Yours might be a one-time use." He watched the boss for a reaction.

Rhea smiled. "Hey, you're right! It's a one-time code."

"So, let's focus our energy. Now that we're a team, let's ensure the experiment's success—for the glory of it all!" Despite her words, Rhea kept the paper bag. Lily looked at her, then at the man. "So, she's my assistant?"

The man nodded.

Lily chuckled mockingly. "Why do I feel it's the other way around? Who's in charge when my experiment begins?"

"You, of course!" the man replied instantly. Leaning back, he propped his chin on his hand. His voice was raspy and weak, but his tone was unwavering. "In that case..."

Lily's face hardened. "Give me the document."

Rhea hesitated.

"Are you disobeying my order?" Lily raised an eyebrow. "I don't need an insubordinate assistant. Find me someone who will follow instructions."

"Here," Rhea reluctantly handed over the document. "Don't tell me the information's incomplete this time."

Lily glanced at her, unfazed, then unwrapped the document, noting its weight and thickness. "It contains all the information on R10. I expect results within five days. Understood?" The man leaned forward, holding up five fingers.

Mike wanted to object; five days was far too short. So many previous attempts have failed. Five days is impossible!

But before he could speak, Lily's crisp voice answered, "Okay! Five days then."

Rhea snorted. "You think too highly of yourself." She's underestimating the difficulty. And she'll pay for her arrogance!