When fate plays its hand

“Joli.” Miranda suddenly interrupted him. Her abruptness surprised those who knew her well. Even Joli turned to look at her.

She continued, “Before you make a decision, I have a few things to say.”

“Okay.” He looked serious.

“You know that joining Infinity Lab comes with a structured monthly salary, right?” Miranda began. “The pay scale depends on your rank–from research assistant to assistant scientist, scientist, senior scientist, and principal scientist.

“But it’s not just about rank. Your income is also tied to the quality and your experimental output. You understand this, right?”

Joli nodded. “Yes.” But he didn’t understand why she was bringing this up now.

She continued, “The Infinity Lab will offer you a salary advance for the next ten years. Based on preliminary calculations, the amount is estimated at four million dollars. Of course, this is just an estimate.

“The actual figure might be higher or lower depending on various factors. But that’s the amount we can offer you.”

Joli was shocked. “M–Miranda…”

Even Ollie’s eyes widened in disbelief. He had never imagined that studying and doing research could earn this much.

When Joli had worked under Sophie, Ollie had never heard his son mention getting paid- let alone anything close to this amount.

Miranda said, “This money should help you resolve your immediate concerns, but it’s not without strings attached.

“Since it’s a salary advance, that means you’ll be tied to Infinity Lab for the next ten years, and you

can’t jump ship. During that time, you’ll need to meet specific academic milestones and produce a significant research output each year.”

This wasn’t charity, nor was it an act of sympathy. Instead, it was a calculated investment on Miranda’s part and a smart way for her lab to retain valuable talent.

Good researchers were rare, and researchers like Joli–talented, hardworking, and dedicated–were even rarer. He had earned this offer through his exceptional skills and relentless dedication.

Joli and Ollie exchanged a glance. They had already made up their minds not to move. With their limited resources, staying in the village and working the cherry orchard was their

most practical choice. They knew life in the city would be difficult.

If the Sneider family sought revenge, they would handle it when the time came. But now, an unexpected opportunity had appeared–four million dollars.

medical expenses,

That amount was enough to move the whole family to the city, cover medical buy a house, and even for Julie’s education needs. There would even be enough left over for Ollie to start a small business.

If she had just given Joli the four million dollars outright, he would have refused it. From Miranda’s and Sam’s perspective, while they could afford it, there was no reason to give away such a large amount without cause. This arrangement, however, made perfect

sense.

She was investing her money to secure Joli’s commitment for the next ten years—a deal that was well worth it for her.

For Joli, this money wasn’t a handout but a payment for his work. It was something he could accept with assurance.

“Do I need to sign a contract?” he asked.

Miranda nodded. “Yes, you do.” She was keeping things strictly professional.

He felt a bit of relief. “Okay. I’m on board.”

She then handed him a pre–printed contract and a pen. “Read through it and see if there are any issues. If everything checks out, go ahead and sign. The funds will be transferred this afternoon.”

Joli flipped through the contract and carefully read each clause.

Madison blurted out, “Don’t worry. Miranda would never take advantage of you.” If it were her, she would’ve signed without hesitation.

Sebastian shook his head disapprovingly. “Contracts should always be reviewed thoroughly. It’s better for both Joli and Miranda.” Text © owned by NôvelDrama.Org.

Madison paused for a moment before correcting herself. “Yes, you’re right. I just meant to say that Miranda is honest and trustworthy. But still, it’s always better to double–check the details before signing anything.”