I Love You, Miss Genius

A hint of guilt flashed in Bonnie's eyes when she heard Ivor mention Sigmund. Then, she hid her emotions by clearing her throat.

She responded, "I've been too occupied with my research. That's why I couldn't find the time to visit Grandpa. I wouldn't have left him alone if I could find a little free time on my hand."Content property of NôvelDra/ma.Org.

"Just what research is it? How are you this busy?"

Ivor had never seen Bonnie this occupied with a particular research. She didn't even step outside for almost two weeks.

Obviously, he was still skeptical if Bonnie was at Pyralis at all while he was gone. So, he was looking at her inquisitively while he spoke.

Meanwhile, Bonnie realized that Ivor must've been suspicious about something. She might've felt a little guilty, but she didn't let it show.

"It's the research about the augmentation of the latest nanomaterial. We want to see if we can make a breakthrough and surpass our current technology. That way, we can develop an upgraded version."

Then, Bonnie pretended to have a headache and rubbed her temples.

"I've overestimated myself. I researched it for a long time, but I just couldn't make a breakthrough. I can't develop a new version of the nanomaterial."

Ivor realized how crystal clear her eyes were and knew that she wasn't lying. Seeing her this troubled about the research, he couldn't help but feel heartbroken.

"The things you have developed so far are more than enough to impress the entire world. Relax. Take it easy. Given your capability, it's only a matter of time before you achieve what you set out to do."

Bonnie pretended to be sad and sighed.

"It's easier said than done. Anyway, you have a point. Good things come to those who wait. I'll just take it easy."

"Yeah. Don't exert yourself too much. You'll break my heart." Ivor patted Bonnie's hair tenderly. Then, he swept his glance across the researchers standing behind her.

Bonnie sensed his gaze and thought he saw through something. Her heart skipped a beat.

"What's the matter?"

"I asked these researchers over on short notice to help keep up the pretense. I have no idea if Ivor will ask them something that happened in the past two weeks."

'Will they blow my cover? But it’s pointless to get nervous. I’ll have to think on my feet.'

"Didn’t you say that there’s a new guy called Allen at your new research institute? Why am I not seeing him?"

'I still remember that I talked to Allen on the phone back then. His voice sounded quite similar to that of Collins’s. I don’t think there’s anything suspicious between them, but I might as well pose the question since I’m already here.' 

"Allen..."

Bonnie remained quiet. For a moment, she couldn’t think of an answer. So, she was still racking her brain to come up with an explanation.

'I didn’t count on Ivor remembering it after such a long time. I’ve totally forgotten about that.'

Ivor realized that Bonnie wasn’t speaking. He couldn’t help but narrow his eyes.

"What’s the matter? Is it a difficult question?"

"Allen was still around yesterday, but his mom fell ill out of the blue. So, I sent him back to look after her." Bonnie reacted swiftly and came up with a reasonable excuse. 

Instead of suspecting her, Ivor believed her.

"So, that’s what it is. I recalled that he was quite enthusiastic when we talked on the phone. I was hoping I’d get to chat with him in person." Bonnie couldn’t help but raise her eyebrows.