“It was indeed donated to me,” I answered honestly, but my words only drew another round of laughter.
Professor Laird’s face twisted in disgust. “How many times have I told you, these are public resources! Do you really think this is your private home?”
Zack shook his head, feigning helplessness. “You’ll never change. Being tied to you is the greatest embarrassment of my life.”
Xaviera’s eyes gleamed with malice. “Since you refuse to admit your mistakes and still insist all this belongs to you, then you killed my Sissy, you’ll need to pay for it!”
A wave of dread washed over me.
Sure enough, Xaviera let out a mocking chuckle, lifted one of the instruments and raised it high as if to smash it onto the floor.
My eyelids twitched and I cried out, “Stop! These are imported precision instruments, the cheapest costs over a million! Even if you had the money, it wouldn’t matter. Do you understand the consequences?”
But Xaviera only sneered, brushing off my warning. “Heidi, stop acting so pretentious! Every lab has equipment like this. Who are you trying to fool?”
I forced myself to stay calm, though my heart was lodged in my throat.
“I’m not lying. The labels on the backs are completely different from ordinary instruments. Look closely and you’ll see,” I insisted.
Zack leaned in, half-skeptical, to check for himself.
Professor Laird gave a lazy, mocking scoff. “All the institute’s equipment is purchased centrally. I’ve never heard of any differences. Stop trying to fool them. Did you forget I’m standing right here?”
At her words, both Zack and Xaviera immediately lifted their heads, their doubt swept away.
Afraid they still wouldn’t believe me, I rushed to explain, “It’s true. These instruments were donated by Bulwark Group through special channels. You can’t find them on the market.”
Professor Laird burst into laughter, nearly doubling over as though I’d told the funniest joke. “Bulwark Group? They’re our school’s biggest sponsor. They only give special equipment to top talent.
“What? Are you trying to say Bulwark Group gave these to you? How shameless! Why not just claim you’re a top talent and be done with it? At least then your lie would sound halfway convincing!”
Relieved, Zack and Xaviera laughed along. Xaviera lifted the instrument again, her grip firm, while Zack egged her on. “Smash it! Whatever you break, I’ll pay for!”