If it weren't for the hibernation pod used by Mathias, the research institute could direct all their resources into observing and upgrading the hibernation pod that was being used by Maria and cure her as soon as possible.

The Smith family had no idea what Maria had sacrificed for them.

Furrowing his brows, Gary asked, “Kid, Julie is just your adoptive mother, right? Is it really worth going to such lengths for her family?"

Without thinking, Maria raised her left hand and pressed it against her chest.

After keeping silent for a few seconds, she said firmly, “Yes, it's worth it."

An unreadable emotion flickered in his eyes when he noticed the movement of Maria's hand.

"I see..." he said cryptically, nodding.

After a short pause, he added, “I knew you were going to bring the data report today in person, so I didn't tell you one thing. Sophie is coming to Sheffield. I'm guessing she didn't tell you about it, right?"

Maria, who always maintained an impassive expression, looked surprised for once.

"What? Why is she coming here?" she asked with a slight frown.

She thinks that your money is taking too long to come, so she's coming here to press you to work harder," Gary replied with an amused smile.

“That's exactly what she said.”

Maria was speechless.

Gary shrugged and continued, “Of course, there's a more important reason for her to come here. Once the first generation of the hibernation pod is successfully developed, she will take charge of the future versions with assistance from me. Of course, I'm too old to be traveling around, so she’s coming all the way here instead.”

As if on cue, the elevator doors outside the office slid open, and a tall and voluptuous woman wearing a tight dress with a plunging neckline stepped out.

Her Long curly hair swung against her shoulders and her red high-heeled shoes clicked against the floor as she walked up to Maria.

Stopping right in front of Maria, the woman took off her sunglasses and hooked her finger under Maria's chin with a mischievous grin. "Honey, long time no see.

Did you miss me?"

As Sophie lifted her chin up, Maria felt like she was being offended even though the former was a woman.

Unlike Sophie's doe-eyed gaze, Maria's eyes were cold and distant.

“Five...

Four.

Three...

Two..."