?Chapter 858:


    The research institute wasn’t overcrowded, and adding Nina to the team wouldn’t cause any harm. Paul knew her talents, and he wouldn’t reject her just because of Ste. But crossing Nina was like challenging the entire Carter family.


    Seeing Ste absorbed in her work, Nina’s frustration bubbled over. Raising her voice, she said, “I’ve already spoken with Grandpa. He’s agreed. I’m staying in Choria, and I’ll be working here. From now on, we’ll be colleagues!”


    Ste’s brow furrowed slightly. Karson had agreed to this? Unbelievable. Yet, she quickly regained herposure and returned to her work. “Good. Best of luck with your projects.”


    Nina’s face flushed with irritation. It felt like yelling at a wall. She let out a bitterugh.


    “Don’t fool yourself, Ste. Grandpa’s favor doesn’t make you a real Carter. I’ve lived with the Carters my whole life, and I’m the granddaughter who truly belongs. You’re just someone who showed up toote. No matter how far you go, that won’t change. Eventually, Grandpa will recognize who really deserves his loyalty!”


    Ste’s eyes grew cold. “Nina, do you really need to belittle others to boost yourself? If all you wanted was to make a point, you’ve done enough. I have work to do, so you can leave now.”


    Nina faltered under the intensity of Ste’s stare. Her jealousy boiled over, and with a stomp and a re, she stormed out, mming the door behind her.


    Thanks to her Carter family connections, Nina quickly secured her ce in Choria and joined the institute, cing herself right next to Ste’s team.


    Determined to surpass her, Nina kept a close eye on her work, sneaking peeks whenever she could. But Ste stayedpletely focused on her own project and barely noticed Nina’s attempts.


    A weekter, a major national innovation contest was set to take ce in Choria. The prize money was substantial, and the event was generating a lot of buzz in the industry.


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    The institute could only send two teams. Ste’s team, known for their talent and consistency, easily secured one spot.


    After some internal debate among the institute’s leaders, the second spot was given to Nina, who had just returned from abroad.


    While many offered polite congrattions, it was obvious that her family ties had helped her bypass the usual selection process.


    Most colleagues chose not to voice theirints, knowing it would be pointless.<fneb3b> This content belongs to </fneb3b>


    As the contest approached, the institute buzzed with activity and tension. Ste’s team went into full preparation mode, double-checking their data and fine-tuning every detail of their project.


    Sandra and the rest of the team hadn’t worked this hard in a long time. The rare opportunity energized everyone, and sometimes, Sandra even arrived at theb before Ste.


    Jamir and Elbert loved to tease her about it, but Sandra always defended herself firmly. “I’m doing this to help Sylvia beat Nina. I won’t let her down!”


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