---- being. After a sleepless night, stubble shadowed Timothy's jaw. The ashtray on the coffee table that he hadn't used in a long time was filled with cigarette butts. He pressed one hand to his forehead while raking his hand through his hair with the other, feeling frustrated. There truly was no cure for regret in this world. How could he have missed this when Madeline had acted so oddly? He'd forgotten what she was really like because of her obedient act-deep down inside, she was a natural rebel. He was the one who'd been so arrogant that he'd forgotten everything. He thought he was holding the remote, but he hadn't expected Madeline to be a TV beyond his control. Regret crashed over him, and he trembled uncontrollably. Timothy's heart throbbed, and a wave of searing pain shot through his stomach. It made him fall to ---- the floor and curl up there. It was too bad no one was there to bring him his medication this time. Madeline immediately threw herself into her work after arriving at Hattensburg. The days and nights blended into one when one was engrossed in experiments and research. Sometimes, she could go for a whole 48 hours without sleep when she got busy. The desire to build something useful on barren land was strong enough to keep her occupied. It also helped her forget many things. Five years passed in the blink of an eye. Thanks to the whole team's persistent efforts, the project was a resounding success. Gary organized a celebratory party right before it was time to part. He called Madeline aside so they could talk privately. He patted her shoulder and said, "You're the most outstanding student I've ever had. I wasn't sure how exactly to bring this ---- up to you when I first thought of inviting you to join this project. "In fact, I thought Tim wouldn't let you join us. I'm grateful that you ultimately did, though. Did you tell him you were coming here?" Madeline was taken aback to hear Timothy's name after so long. She stood there in silence for a moment before shaking her head. Gary sighed. "That explains it. I recently returned to Loraynea to report on our progress, and I heard that he turned Gremlich upside down shortly after you left, trying to find you. He even used his connections with the government-it was like he'd lost his mind. "This project has taken up many years of your youth. Once we're back in Loraynea, you can start afresh. This will be a new chapter of your life's story." Madeline smiled and shook her head again. "Don't say that, Professor. Don't you remember what you taught me? To always be ready to serve when the ---- time calls for it. It was an honor to contribute to my nation." "That's good to know." Gary rubbed her head before returning to the party. Madeline remained where she was, silently looking out the window. She only lowered her gaze after a while. Five years had passed, and she would soon return to Loraynea. She'd long since let go of the past. Love had never been the thing that helped her grow. What had truly shaped her into the person she currently was was the knowledge she'd gained over the years, as well as the days and nights she'd spent on her experiments. Having a devoted lover would have been nice, but she wasn't losing out without one. She would never stop being herself, even after years passed.