Tyler's heart sank.
What had he missed?
This was a golden opportunity to serve the country, a chance to add another prestigious accomplishment to his name!
Without a doubt, everyone in the control room today would have this experience added to their list of accolades; they would all receive national commendation.
"Mr. Carter, you should go home and rest," Mr. Harrison said, frowning. His tone was cold.
He had, of course, heard about what happened that morning.
His institute had no need for a researcher who was so arrogant and had such poor judgment.
The instruction to "go home and rest" had a deeper meaning, and Tyler understood it perfectly.
Go home and rest, and don't bother coming back.
Tyler clenched his fists, his face a mask of desperation. "Mr. Harrison, I was wrong. After this... I'll never judge a book by its cover again!"
Mr. Harrison waved a dismissive hand and, without another word, turned to escort Serena away.
Tyler rushed to block their path. "Mr. Harrison, I've been at the institute for so many years! I've put in years of hard work, even if I don't have major accomplishments. You can't... you can't just fire me over something so minor! I've... I've already been punished, haven't I?"
The Elyndor Institute of Advanced Sciences was the top energy research facility in the entire country, led by the national treasure, Mr. Harrison.
Just being associated with the institute gave you status. Even a dog from the institute was respected outside.
If he was kicked out.
No other institute would ever hire him.
His life would be over!
"Mr. Carter," Mr. Harrison said, stopping. He frowned, his gaze turning icy.
Tyler clenched his fists, ready to argue.
Those few words sealed his fate.
How could Tyler accept this?
"Mr. Harrison, I can't accept this disciplinary action!" he shouted, his eyes red. He pointed a finger at Serena. "She's not even part of the institute! What right does she have to decide my future?"
Just thinking about how he had lost such a huge opportunity for glory and recognition from national leaders all because of Serena made him seethe with resentment.
If Serena had just said from the beginning that she was here to help Mr. Harrison.
He wouldn't have doubted her, wouldn't have stormed off, and wouldn't have lost everything.
Now, Serena owed him!
What right did she have to convince Mr. Harrison to fire him?
It wasn't fair!

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