The signing of the patent transfer agreement went smoothly. Glancing at the time, Eleanor turned to Simone. "Professor Langley, I'm heading to the lab."

"Of course, go ahead!" Simone nodded encouragingly, then turned to lan. "Ian, is there something you'd like to say?"

lan watched as Eleanor gathered her documents, his gaze narrowing slightly. "No," he replied.

Eleanor finished collecting her things and left without another word.

Her retreating figure made it clear-even if lan had something to say, she wasn't interested in hearing it.

Simone watched the two young people and sighed inwardly. There'd been a time when she thought, if their divorce hadn't been so bitter, maybe they could reconcile. After all, they had a child together.

But now, it was obvious Eleanor had no intention of looking back, and lan seemed to have lost any patience for winning her over.

lan broke the silence. "Professor Langley, how's the research progressing on Eleanor's mother's donor case?"

Simone had already asked Eleanor about it, but so far, it seemed she hadn't begun any concrete work.

"Ian, you know this is a sensitive matter," Simone said gently. "It's her mother's donor sample, after all."

lan's expression hardened. "She'll have to get over it. The research can't be delayed."

No sooner had the words left his mouth than he looked up-and there was Eleanor, standing in the doorway, clutching her files. Her face was ashen, and she was trembling.

Simone followed lan's gaze and saw Eleanor. Clearly, she'd overheard.

For a few seconds, the room froze.

Simone hurried to smooth things over. "Eleanor, lan is just concerned about the project's progress="

But Eleanor marched into the lab, snatched her phone from the table, and stormed out.

lan shot to his feet. "Eleanor, we need to talk."

She ignored him completely, striding out of the lab. Ian's long legs carried him after her.

"Eleanor, wait.” His voice was low and commanding.

Eleanor halted, still clutching her files.

lan stepped up beside her. "This isn't a trivial matter. Your mother's donor research could-"

"I don't care whose life is at stake," Eleanor cut him off coldly. "It has nothing to do with me."

Simone came out, watching the tension crackle between them. "Both of you, calm down."

"Professor Langley, I need a quiet space to work. I won't tolerate any more interruptions from unrelated parties. If it happens again, I'll quit the team." Eleanor's words were icy as she turned to leave.

"Eleanor." lan's eyes darkened.

"That's enough." She snapped, glaring at him through clenched teeth. "From now on, my research has nothing to do with you. Vanessa's life means nothing to me either."

Suddenly, lan lunged forward and grabbed her wrist, his grip shockingly strong. "Listen to me. This research on your mother's donor isn't about saving her."

Eleanor recoiled, trying to wrench her arm free. When she couldn't, her voice went colder still. "Then who's it for?"

lan swallowed, something conflicted flickering in his eyes, but all he said was, "It's not what you think."

Eleanor gave a short, bitter laugh and finally wrenched her hand away. "Ian, when I start research on my mother's sample is my decision. You don't get to order me around."

With that, she took a step back and walked away.

Simone watched lan, surprised to see his composure slip for once.

She sighed. “Ian, you need to find some time to talk to her properly."

lan's jaw clenched as he stared after Eleanor. "She won't listen."

"Professor Langley, I'm asking you to talk to her for me. Try to convince her to start the research as soon as possible."

Simone frowned. "Why is this donor sample in your hands anyway?"

"My father-in-law gave it to me," lan replied, lowering his gaze. "Please, Professor Langley. I'm counting on you."

Simone nodded. "Alright, I'll find the right time to speak to Eleanor. But if this research isn't to save Miss Shannon, then who is it for?"