?Chapter 983:


    It was Professor Taylor—her old teacher. Though his hair had turned gray, he still looked sharp and energetic. He greeted her with a big smile. “You’re here too! It’s been forever!”


    Back in her university days, Professor Taylor had been her mentor. He always believed in her talent and admired her drive. He was probably the kindest and most supportive teacher she’d ever had.


    “Professor Taylor. It’s really been a while.”


    She smiled—really smiled—for the first time in days, even if just for a second.


    Taylor gave her a light pat on the shoulder, like he’d just remembered something, then motioned for her to walk with him down a quieter hallway.


    The campus garden was nearly empty, thete afternoon sun casting long shadows across the stone paths. Professor Taylor gave a gentle smile. “I’ve heard a bit about what’s been going ontely. Don’t pay any attention to the online noise. Every researcher hits bumps in the road—and critics always show up when you’re doing something right.”


    Ste felt her throat tighten. She quickly looked down, trying to keep her emotions in check.


    It hit her then—Professor Taylor had called her out here just to make sure she was okay.


    She’d been dreading this meeting, afraid that all the gossip and rumors had already swayed his opinion of her. She thought he might be disappointed—or worse, believe the worst of her.


    But here he was, brushing it off like it was just some passing drama. Like it wasn’t even worth getting worked up about.


    Taking a steadying breath, Ste forced a smile and tried to sound calm. “I’m fine, professor. Really, thank you.”


    Professor Taylor waved her off kindly, like she didn’t need to put on a brave face. Then his tone turned firm, full of quiet confidence. “You’re still the most talented student I’ve ever taught. I believe in your work, and I believe in you. This mess will blow over. Don’t let it slow you down or make you doubt yourself.”


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    His calm, steady voice seemed to cut through the noise in her head. Some of the tension she’d been carrying for days started to ease. Her fingers, cold from stress, began to warm a little.


    Just then, Professor Taylor’s expression brightened with a sudden thought. “Ah, that reminds me—I recently brought on a new graduate student. His name’s Jeff Norris. Bright kid, works hard… he actually reminds me of you, back when you first started.”


    Ste blinked. She wasn’t quite sure how to take that.


    Was that supposed to be apliment?


    Before she could figure out how to respond, Professor Taylor carried on, cheerful as ever. “I’ve been meaning to introduce you two. I think you’d get along—you probably have a lot inmon.”


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