The conference room froze in stunned silence. Dorian Cross's words echoed against the walls like a thunderclap.
"Dr. Payne... how do you think I am doing as an assistant?"
All eyes turned to Lyra, expressions ranging from shock to disbelief. Orla's face had drained of color. Jasper looked like someone had punched him in the gut.
"This is absurd," Jasper finally sputtered, finding his voice. "Her? The brilliant mind behind revolutionary energy conversion? Impossible!"
Dorian reached into his briefcase, pulling out a folder with official seals. "Perhaps this will help clarify things." He spread the documents across the table. "The original patent application for the Payne Conversion Principle, filed four years ago."
The university dean leaned forward, adjusting his glasses to examine the papers. His eyes widened as he read the name listed as the primary inventor.
"Lyra Moreau," he read aloud, voice trembling.
The room erupted in chaos.
