bChapter /bb773 /b

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“The fraudsters in Mandino City were arrested, and the police thanked Vanessa. Vanessa and Aria are good friends. It’s not hard to guess what role Vanessa yed in this,” Gerald said.

At that time, the police in Mandino City also contacted the State Security Bureau, Gerald was about to set off when they said they had found someone to help, so he didn’t need to go.

Gerald knew even before Cathy that the superstar Vanessa was actually a legendary hacker. After hearing the exnation, Cathy fell silent for a long while before finally saying, “You’re really scary. Serves you right for being single.”

He smiled and said, “It’s like you’re not single.”

Busy with their careers, they really didn’t have time for a rtionship. However, many people shipped them as a couple. But in reality, they just didn’t see each other that way. Whether one liked someone or not, one usually knew at first sight.

In today’s society, there were plenty of singles around. Dating and marriage weren’t necessities; there was no need to force it. One could live a fulfilling life alone, and loving oneself was more important.

Older folks didn’t understand. They thought people must marry and have kids. After the first, they pushed for a second, and it never ended. That was why Cathy and Gerald both avoided going home whenever they could.

Out in the world, people would say, “You’re just twenty–six or twenty–eight, still young.”

But at home, it was always, “You’re almost thirty. If you don’t hurry up and settle down, no one’s going to want you.”

Cathy was about to say more, but Gerald cut her off. “Don’t bother. It’s pointless. Go take care of your own business.” So, there really was no chance for them to work together. That meant they’d only ever be rivals.

Cathy threw down the gauntlet. “You’ll regret this. Our team is taking the championship for sure.”

“Then let me congratte you in advance.” Gerald raised his ss.

Cathy felt like her words hadnded on a pillow. She stood up, ready to leave. “Thanks. See you, bad Gerald.”

“See you,” Gerald said.

Aria had just gotten to campus when Mike showed up at her office looking for her.

“Ms. Saxon, do we get a summer break?” Everyone joked that being a grad student is like being a pack mule. Whether you had a vacation or not totally depends on your advisor’s mood.

Aria booted up herputer. “Didn’t Mr. Schmidt mention anything to you?”

“Mr. Schmidt said it’s your call,” he replied.

“Alright, then you’ll get a break starting early July and sses will resume in September,” Aria replied.

It was mid–June now. Mike hesitated for a moment. “Ms. Saxon, I was hoping to start my summer break a bit early so I could take the State Security Bureau’s entrance exam. I n toe back in August.”

Aria looked a little surprised. “You’re applying to the State Security Bureau?”

Mike nodded. “A lot of students are signing up. I figured I’d give it a shot too.”

But really, getting into the State Security Bureau had always been his goal. If he was lucky enough to pass, he might even make it to the Skills Evaluation

bat /bthe end of July.

Sure, it was a long shot for a newbie to win, but it would be a great chance to get a feel for thepetition and prepare for next iyear/i.

He paused, then added. “Ms. Saxon, if I do pass the exam, I might not be able toe back until mid–August at the earliest.”

Aria nodded. “Final exams are done, so as long as you finish your coursework, you’re all set. If you make it into the State Security Bureau, you’ll basically be Mandino University’s pride. So, no worries about your vacation.”

Mike grinned. “Thanks, Ms. Saxon.”

As Mike walked out of the office, Helen and Larry rushed over. “That was fast. Did you get your leave approved?”

Mike nodded. “Yeah, the usual break is July to September.”

Helen’s eyes went wide. “We get that long off? Mr. Chilton’s students don’t even get a break.”

Larry looked a bit worried. “Isn’t two months a bit much? What if we fall behind everyone else?”

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Chapter 77A