Chapter 468

William Lowell had intended to ask Dr. Preston Quincy to reorganize the research data.

Even if they missed the first opportunity, they could still secure a share of the profits.

But Dr. Quincy's response caught him off guard—he politely declined the request.

"The research institute's funding was provided personally by Sophia Laurent," Dr. Quincy stated calmly.

William wiped sweat from his forehead. "Sophia's money belongs to the Lowell family. She represents Lowell Entertainment."

Dr. Quincy frowned slightly and fell silent.

"Dr. Quincy, please reconsider. Lowell Entertainment will ensure you're generously compensated."

With that, William hurriedly left the institute.

He ordered the entire facility sealed, prohibiting anyone from entering or leaving. All communications were cut off.

When he returned to his office, Richard and Victoria Lowell were already waiting.

To his surprise, Daniel and Nathan Lowell, who had been absent for some time, had also arrived.

"Brother, what's going on?"

Though the brothers had kept a low profile recently, news of Lowell Entertainment's press conference had reached them.

When the event failed to start on time, they called their father.

Richard gave vague answers, only saying there was an issue and urging them to come immediately.

William looked at his brothers' confused expressions and let out a heavy sigh, his energy completely drained.

The mere thought of the possibility made it hard to breathe.

"Dr. Quincy's research... was stolen."

Nathan shot to his feet. "How is that possible? Dr. Quincy has lived in seclusion for years, keeping to himself. How could his work suddenly be stolen?"

Daniel's face darkened as a thought flashed through his mind.

He remained silent, his gaze fixed on William.

William took a deep breath, struggling to find the right words.

He couldn't bring himself to say it—the thief was Emily Lowell, the girl they had doted on since childhood.

If Sophia had done it, he might have accepted it.

But it was their beloved adopted daughter.

William's silence led Richard to the wrong conclusion.

"It must be that wretched Sophia!" Richard slammed his fist on the table. "She deliberately humiliated Lowell Entertainment in front of everyone!"

Victoria quietly wiped away tears but didn't argue.

William flushed red. "Father, it's not—"

He wanted to explain it wasn't Sophia.

But before he could finish, Nathan interrupted. "Father, are you sure?"

He hadn't been completely idle during this time. He'd secretly investigated Sophia and Emily's past.

The results shocked him.

Their entire family had been deceived.

Sophia had never harmed anyone, while Emily had been living a double life.

"How could it be false?" Richard gritted his teeth, his eyes burning with hatred.