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."

lady beamed. "I need your expertise in restoring a piece of pottery from the late Victorian era.

preserving such artifacts are incredibly strict. A mere change in temperature or humidity could lead to damage. Restoration

before asking,

estate, about a ten-minute drive. If it makes you feel more comfortable, your husband can accompany us," the old

us. But what

had thought of everything. "We've arranged for a live feed to be broadcasted on a large screen. It's an educational opportunity for many." Satisfied, Karen agreed without further

holding Karen's hand, couldn't hide his pride. "Honey, when did you learn to restore

past - pottery, ancient scripts, treasure hunting, and more. Just hobbies of

me sometime. Now that I'm not on the front lines, it'd be nice to have more

done," Karen assured

diligently, each absorbed in their task. The room was kept at precise conditions

a mask and gloves, her focus undivided as she

Methodically, she began the