Even Chad had trouble controlling his expression when he heard what Jayson and Nancy sald.

He thought Jayson had brought Nancy here to meet Carlos and ask him some questions that required Carlos‘ knowledge and expertise. Chad didn’t expect that they were actually aiming to secure Nancy’s spot as Carlos‘ postgraduate student this year.

Chad subconsciously glanced at Ariel. That spot was meant for her.

Yet, Jayson always seemed to have a way to intercept during crucial moments and ruin things for Ariel.

Meanwhile, Ariel had used the shortest time possible to regain her composure. She fixed Jayson and Nancy with a stony gaze.

Then, Ariel lightly tugged Chad’s sleeve to remind him to calm down.

Nancy studied Jayson’s side profile for a moment. Then, in an earnest tone, she said, “I know our country implements a slightly different system for how students can apply to undertake postgraduate studies.

“However, I’ve done extensive research and studies during my time at Arcadia Tech. I also have a lot of experience conducting various projects. You’re one of the early pioneers in this industry. My dream is to help improve people’s lives through technology. I sincerely hope you’ll consider giving me a chance.”

Nancy had

completed her PhD studies at a university abroad. However, Carlos was a prominent figure in their field of study within the country. If Carlos agreed to accept Nancy as his student, it would definitely help enhance Nancy’s résumé and academic qualifications.

Carlos‘ gaze fell on Nancy.

He recognized her pretty quickly. It was because of Nancy that their research institute received a sponsorship of 200 million dollars as research funding from Bluum Corp.

Carlos turned his gaze toward Jayson. Although it was almost unnoticeable, a conflicted look was in his eyes.

“Ms. Stanton, right?” Carlos‘ tone remained unchanged. He had a stern look on his stoic face. His remarks were critical.

“Every year, countless brilliant, remarkable geniuses wish to become my postgraduate students. Being talented and showing the resolve to work hard are the bare minimum a student must achieve before they meet me.

“If you’re thinking about becoming my student, are there any aspects about you that make you exceptionally special or outstanding?”

It sounded like Carlos was just asking her a very common question..

Yet, Nancy’s expression gradually hardened. She even seemned a little confused. Carlos had already been informed about her academic qualifications and the projects she was involved in when she was still in Merinia. Yet, it sounded as though he still found those things lacking.

Chad couldn’t stop himself from grinning. He was amused by what Carlos just did.

Carlos had made it pretty clear just now that he would not allow anyone the chance to take any shortcuts just because that person came asking for favors through their connections.

Chad lowered his head and looked at Ariel. His brows lifted

Ariel could see how glad Chad was upon witnessing Nancy fail at her attempt. She chuckled and shook her head, finding the way Chad was acting a little childish.

Somewhere nearby, Zach had just finished chatting with someone,

He overheard Nancy bringing up her request. Zach also caught Ariel smiling up at Chad just now.

Zach furrowed his brows, thinking that Ariel had no right to laugh at Nancy. He was sure Nancy would pass the tests and secure the spot if she willed it. Besides, did someone like Ariel, who had no redeeming qualities, even possess the right to mock Nancy?

Nancy swiftly regained her composure. She sounded incredibly earnest and sincere. “I understand. I hope you’ll allow me a chance to attend the interview. I’ll do my best to impress you.”

Carlos had his hands on his back. He said frigidly, “I don’t take students through the application method. The admissions exam is the fairest way for me to judge a student’s competency.

“Ms. Stanton, there are numerous students who have the same ambitions as you do. However, I’m only accepting one student this year.”

At this point, almost anyone could tell that Carlos wasn’t interested in having Nancy as his postgraduate student.

Ariel dropped her gaze.

She knew Carlos really well. Even if Jayson had brought Nancy here and provided her the opportunity to speak to Carlos, that didn’t mean Nancy could necessarily secure the spot.

Jayson was aware of that as well. Although Carlos didn’t say it outright, it was nonetheless obvious he had rejected Nancy’s request.

Still, Jayson’s face didn’t show much emotion. He seemed calm and collected. Jayson didn’t try to persuade Carlos to change his mind either.

Nancy pursed her lips. As she tried to calm herself down, Nancy asked another question since it was hard for her to give up just yet. “Mr. Carlos, do you already have a candidate you’re feeling inclined to accept as your student?”

Nancy was perceptive enough to arrive at that conclusion almost instantly. Yet, the notion that there could be other exceptional geniuses in their country, entirely outside her awareness, was something she couldn’t comprehend.

This time, even Jayson was looking in Carlos‘ direction.

On the side, Zach took a sip of his drink, feeling both shocked and confused. He pondered how even Nancy had failed to impress Carlos with her current achievements, yet they were saying there was possibly someone else far more capable and impressive than Nancy.

Carlos nudged the bridge of his glasses a little. Curiously, his gaze fell on Jayson this time. Then, Carlos gave a soft

short.