Chapter 466

A dull ache pulsed through Frederick's temples as he massaged his forehead. The steaming cup of Earl Grey tea did little to soothe his nerves.

Cassandra Wright stood resolute before him, her posture unwavering. "Mr. Mills, if my leaving would truly cripple our nation's scientific advancement, I would reconsider."

She placed a thick folder on the mahogany desk. "I'm prepared to donate all my hydronium research data from the past decade. This should provide sufficient foundation for other scientists to continue my work."

Frederick leaned forward, his fingers steepled. "Cassandra, consider the legacy of great female scientists before you. Marie Curie sacrificed everything for radioactivity research. Rosalind Franklin's work on DNA structure went unrecognized until after her death."

"Agatha Winslow spent years in remote villages developing her malaria treatment," he continued. "These women—"

"I'm well aware of their contributions," Cassandra interrupted, her voice steady. "But I'm not pursuing fame or recognition. My grandfather may be the wealthiest man in Aldenria, but I've never cared about inheritance."

She placed a protective hand on her abdomen. "Material possessions mean nothing compared to bringing new life into this world."

Frederick sighed. "You'd truly give up everything? Your position? Your research?"

"Without hesitation," Cassandra replied, her green eyes blazing with conviction. "No achievement compares to holding my child."

The older man's shoulders slumped. As a father of three, he understood her choice. "I'll present your case to the committee," he conceded. "But don't expect miracles."

Cassandra's face lit up as she shook his hand. "Thank you for understanding."

"Don't thank me yet," Frederick warned. "The bureaucratic hurdles will be substantial."

"I'll face whatever comes," she declared.

Seasons changed outside the laboratory windows. Spring blossoms gave way to summer heat, then autumn's golden hues.

Cassandra endured morning sickness that lasted all day. She worked through nosebleeds and dizziness, meticulously documenting her final experiments.

After three grueling months, the Solterra government finally relented. The image of a child growing up without its father softened even the sternest officials' hearts.

Two more months passed as she transferred research files and signed countless confidentiality agreements. The nationality change paperwork alone took weeks to process.

Five months after her decision, Cassandra stepped onto Aldenrian soil as snowflakes swirled around her. The airport's glass walls framed a winter wonderland beyond.

Home. The word resonated in her chest as she inhaled the crisp northern air.

"Cassandra!" A familiar voice pierced the terminal's hum.

Rosalind Baskins barreled toward her, bundled in enough winter gear to resemble a walking snowbank. Cassandra barely had time to brace before the impact.

"Why the cold shoulder?" Rosalind pouted when Cassandra held her at arm's length.

Cassandra laughed. "I've missed you too! You look exhausted."

Rosalind's eyes darted over her friend's figure. "You've put on weight," she blurted, then immediately flushed. "Not that it's noticeable! The coat just—"

"Where exactly do you think I've gained weight?" Cassandra teased, unbuttoning her cashmere wrap.

Rosalind's gaze dropped to Cassandra's midsection, then flew back up to her face. Understanding dawned in her widening eyes.

"Oh my—" Rosalind clapped her mittened hands to her mouth. "When? How? Who—"

Cassandra's smile held all the secrets of impending motherhood. "Let's get some hot chocolate," she said, linking arms with her stunned friend. "I have quite the story to tell."