The Million-Dollar Heart

Mr. Cory was gobsmacked. He had never expected Karen to be such a prodigy, effortlessly sketching complex data charts as if it was second nature. What kind of wizardry was this? Karen, oblivious to his astonishment, casually brushed a stray lock of hair behind her ear.

"That's all the heads-up I can give you for now. This conundrum remains unsolved by anyone in the world." Standing up abruptly, Mr. Cory bowed deeply to Karen.

"The scientific community is beyond fortunate to have researchers like you. Your contributions are invaluable."

His words sparked a wave of admiration among the guests, culminating in thunderous applause.

The next visitor was a kindly old lady, her hair silver with age, her high cheekbones and gentle eyes radiating warmth.

She approached slowly, adjusting her spectacles. Karen rose to help her to a chair, receiving a grateful smile in return. "My dear Karen, your brilliance and flair are simply unmatched! Watching you solve those problems was a sight to behold."

"But the favor I seek might require us to step out," she added, her eyes twinkling with a hint of mischief.

Karen raised an eyebrow, a playful smile on her lips. "You'll have to spill the beans before I agree to anything."

expertise in restoring a piece of pottery from the late Victorian

for preserving such artifacts are incredibly strict. A mere change in temperature or humidity could lead to damage. Restoration is a delicate and often tedious process."

pondered for a moment before asking,

stone's throw from the Linklater estate, about a ten-minute drive. If it makes you feel more comfortable, your husband can accompany us," the old lady suggested with a smile. Karen glanced over

join us. But what

an educational opportunity for many." Satisfied, Karen agreed without further ado, and along with the old lady and Arthur, they

hand, couldn't hide his pride. "Honey, when did you

had a fascination with the past - pottery, ancient scripts, treasure hunting,

on

it done," Karen

absorbed in their task. The room was kept at precise conditions suitable for restoration

focus undivided as she approached the shattered pieces of

Methodically, she began the