Chapter 163 Is It Serious?
The woman had just finished speaking when a cool voice cut through. "Sorry to keep everyone waiting. Hit some traffic on the way."
Then the young woman from reception came in with a smile. "Everyone, this is our research institute's investor, Mr. Nason Everly."
The group of doctors applauded warmly to welcome him.
Nason walked to the head of the table, greeted everyone with a smile, and finally his gaze landed on Matilda.
"What a coincidence—seeing an old friend here."
Matilda nodded and smiled at him.
Nason was just making conversation, then got down to business. His goal was indeed to bring more alternative medicine practitioners into his research institute, though it wasn't exactly poaching. The doctors could still do their regular work—they'd just collaborate on research in various fields during their free time. Basically, resource integration.
Those who wanted to join could sign contracts. If research projects succeeded, there'd be profit sharing and such. It wouldn't conflict with their day jobs and could serve as a side gig.
Matilda was there representing Dr. Clark, so she took careful notes.
She noticed Nason had a certain charisma. At work he didn't put on airs and was quite easygoing. He seemed low-key, but when it came to matters of principle, he'd deflect with humor.
Some of the female doctors really liked him. One doctor in her forties even tried to set him up, asking if he was married.
He said he was currently single and would only consider dating after the research institute was running smoothly.
It was just an excuse. Even if the institute turned a profit, compared to his Phoenix City company, it would be pocket change.
The female doctor realized he wasn't interested in being set up and dropped it.
After the meeting, Nason treated everyone to a meal at the café—Majestic City specialties. Matilda usually didn't post on Facebook, but today's dishes were gorgeous, plated so artfully they looked like pieces of art. Seeing others taking photos and posting, she snapped a few shots and posted them: [Majestic City specialties.]
Soon after, several people had liked it.
Zoey said she'd eaten there before and it really was excellent.
Carol asked if the portions were so tiny and refined, was it actually filling?
Irene posted some weird emoji. Matilda realized she'd forgotten to block her and quickly fixed that.
Right after, a message came in. From Prof. Morales.
Back in Brookford City, Prof. Morales had researched insomnia with her and mentored her—basically a teacher figure. Later, when Wentworth's insomnia mysteriously improved and she went to the border, they'd lost touch.
Prof. Morales messaged: [You went to the exchange meeting?]
Matilda was surprised. [Yes, Prof. Morales, are you in Majestic City too?]
How else would he know?
Prof. Morales replied: [I'm currently a consultant at Mr. Everly's research institute.]
Ah, that explained it.
Matilda wrote: [I should visit you when I have time.]
[Do you have time today? Come see the institute. I'm here.]
Matilda went quiet.
...
Matilda needed to get to the research institute but didn't know the way, so she had to explain to Nason.
When he heard, he looked ridiculously pleased. "See? I told you we were destined to cross paths. At first I asked you to join and you refused. Now look—God himself is pushing you here."
"I'm just visiting Prof. Morales, not joining the institute," Matilda said.
"Look around first, then we'll talk." Nason smiled and went to get his car.
Most wealthy executives had drivers and assistants, but Nason liked driving himself. In Majestic City he drove a sports car—a yellow convertible that roared when it moved. Fortunately it was May and not cold, though the wind absolutely destroyed Matilda's hair.
Luckily her hair was manageable. A quick fix and it was fine.
Nason brought Matilda to his research institute—a three-story building near a park. The exterior was beautifully designed. Walking inside, she caught the scent of medicinal herbs. A pleasant, soothing aroma.
The moment Matilda entered, she was captivated by the various projects. Nason's institute had many small rooms, each labeled—pediatric research lab, gynecology lab, massage therapy lab, endocrinology lab... Staff members were inside discussing and researching.
Matilda loved the atmosphere here.
Seeing her expression, Nason knew she liked it. He didn't try to persuade her, just smiled to himself. He led her to Prof. Morales's office.
Prof. Morales was researching alternative medicine for neurological treatments—insomnia, pain management, detoxification. He was as serious as ever.
But agreeing to see Matilda showed he valued her. He brewed coffee and chatted with her about work.
"Training in Majestic City?" Prof. Morales asked.
"Yes, at TrustCare Hospital."
"How is it?"
"Really good. The conditions are much better than my previous hospital."
"I asked you to stay in Brookford City before and you refused. After this training, I imagine you'll still return to Phoenix City?" Prof. Morales said.
Matilda nodded. "Phoenix City gave me this opportunity. After I learn something, I need to give back to the hospital."
Plus, her and Wentworth's home was in Phoenix City.
Prof. Morales looked at her with appreciation.
"During this time, when you're free, come to the institute. You can work on projects with me, help organize materials. Sound good?"
Prof. Morales remembered that Matilda was a dedicated learner. When he'd ask her to find materials, she'd spend half the night in the library, and what she found was always thorough.
Matilda figured she had nothing else to do after work, so she agreed.
"I've also been going to TrustCare Hospital lately. Some VIP was injured—I've been part of the expert consultation team," Prof. Morales added.
"A VIP? Who?" Matilda was curious.
"I don't know his exact identity, but to bring in so many experts, he must be important. He's young—from his build, probably military," Prof. Morales said.
"Is he seriously injured?" Matilda asked.