Flora’s Guide to a Second Chance at Love and Life

Flora often visited the computer science department, but she always made sure to go during her free time, even on the competition weekend. She never skipped a class, only taking leave for one or two periods if absolutely necessary.

Libby's claims were a bit exaggerated.

Thinking about how Jules had mentioned Flora's application was already submitted, Libby's grip on her notebook tightened until her knuckles turned white. Summoning her courage, she continued, "I heard you're considering Flora for a spot in the medical research lab. Usually, only Master's and Ph.D. students are admitted. Letting a freshman in feels a bit unfair to the rest of us, don't you think?" Jules caught onto her real motive instantly.

Her question was just a cover; she wanted to voice her discontent.

His demeanor turned cold and distant. He glanced at the name on the book and handed it back to her. "Libby, right?"

Libby nodded, feeling a bit anxious.

"Instead of worrying about others, why don't you focus on improving yourself? This question is incredibly simple, yet you came to me for help. Go back and write out the problem and its solution a hundred times. I'll check it next class."

With that, Jules walked away, leaving Libby flustered and alone in the classroom.

Meanwhile, Flora had arrived at the school gate.

Connor's car was parked about fifty meters to the right. Flora got in, and Connor helped her take off her backpack.

"What do you feel like eating today?" he asked.

"Sweet and sour pork, garlic shrimp, and stir-fried bamboo shoots!" Flora listed off several dishes excitedly. "Let's cook at my place. My dad and brother are home today."

"Sounds good," Connor agreed, gently ruffling Flora's hair.

Moss, perceptive as ever, started the car and headed towards the Irving family's home.

...

At the University of Maple Grove's medical research lab, a professor with graying hair and reading glasses, donned in a white lab coat, was guiding a group of young researchers through an experiment. A young man in a lab coat knocked and entered.

"Dr. Ray, the medical school has sent over this year's list of lab entrants."

"Alright, just leave it there," Dr. Ray replied.

The young man placed the list on the desk and left.

"Remember the details I've told you. Conduct the experiment again on your own and submit a report by the day after tomorrow."

"Yes, Dr. Ray," the group responded, nodding as they continued their work.

Dr. Ray returned to his desk, took a sip from his thermos, and glanced at the list. There were four new entrants.

The first three were Master's students, but the last entry made him pause. A freshman? Dr. Ray doubted his eyes. He set down his thermos and looked closely.

At the bottom, in bold letters, it read:

Flora, Female, born in '94, Department of Medicine, Freshman.Property © of NôvelDrama.Org.

Since when did freshmen qualify for their prestigious medical research lab?

Dr. Ray, frowning deeply, called back the young man who had delivered the list.

"Are you sure there's no mistake with this list? What's the deal with this last entry, Flora?"

"A freshman in our medical research lab? That's ludicrous."

"There's no mistake. Flora comes highly recommended by Dr. Jules himself," Shawn replied.