?<strong>Chapter 997:</strong>


    Before long, it was Dunn’s turn to speak on stage. The professor, fond of him, had given him every opportunity to shine.


    But just as Dunn prepared to stand, his phone rang.


    He answered, “Tell me slowly. What happened to your sister?” Lynda watched him, noticing the way his face contorted in surprise.


    She had never seen Dunn look so flustered. Something on the other end of the line had shaken him.


    She heard him say, “I’ll be right there.”


    As he stood up, Lynda’s heart raced. “Dunn, where are you going? It’s almost your turn to speak!”


    Dunn quickly turned to her, his voice strained. “I have an emergency. Please let the professor know.”


    Lynda frowned, confusion etched on her face. “What could be more important than today? The professor pulled so many strings to give you this opportunity. If you leave now, not only will you disappoint him, but you’ll let a lot of people down.”


    Dunn inhaled deeply, his expression hardening. “I’m sorry, Lynda, but I don’t have time for this.”


    “Dunn!” Lynda’s voice rang out, sharp and loud, causing several heads around them to turn with disapproval.


    She exhaled slowly, trying to steady herself. “Can I step in for you?”


    She knew that if they couldn’t find a recement, Dunn would face the professor’s wrath.


    Understanding that Lynda was offering to help him, Dunn nodded. “Thank you.” Then, he hurriedly left the venue.


    Lynda approached the professor, exining the situation as best as she could. The professor’s face was tight with frustration, but Lynda’s impromptu performance was impressive. By the end, she was met with apuse.


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    “Professor, something urgent came up for Dunn. He promised he’ll exin everything once he’s taken care of it.”


    The professor waved it off. “Forget it. Lucky I brought you along today. You did an excellent job.” He gave Lynda an encouraging pat on the shoulder. “You and Dunn need to support each other moving forward. Together, you’ll help elevate our country’s pharmaceutical industry.”


    Lynda felt a strange warmth spread through her chest at the thought of being paired with Dunn. “Yes, I understand.”


    Speaking of Dunn, the professor’s face softened with admiration. “He’s a young man full of promise, with ambition and vision. One day, you’ll be his most trusted ally.”


    Lynda nodded, her voice unwavering. “I know. His ideals are the same as mine.”


    Once the event ended, she quickly called Dunn. “I spoke to the professor on your behalf. When you’re done with your business, you should call him and apologize personally.”


    “Thanks.” Dunn’s voice was distant, the sound of his engine roaring in the background as he sped down the road.


    “Dunn, did something happen to your girlfriend?” Lynda asked, her tone tentative.


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