Chapter 1124

Mandy sighed, "Sorry, the Medical Society's packed to the brim."

Josefina added, "We've had a flood of applicants this year, and after a thorough selection, the list is already out. Letting you join now might stir up some drama and bring unwanted attention your way."

Sandi looked confused, "Drama, really?"

Mandy nodded, "You're new here, so you might not realize how fiercely people compete to get into our Medical Society. It's pretty intense! Plus, our member list is even-numbered to make lab work smoother. If you join, it throws everything off balance. Adding another person would just add to the chaos. Sandi, you should focus on your studies first. Our alternative medicine field is vast and needs a lot of dedication."

Makiko listened quietly.

Sandi glanced at Makiko, trying another angle, "What if I don't officially join? Can I just lend a hand as an unofficial member?"

Mandy shook her head, "That's a no-go. If we let you help out, others might try the same approach, and Josie here would be in a tough spot!"

Mandy was firm and clear-cut.

Long story short, there was no way Sandi could stick around.

Makiko finally chimed in, "In that case, Sandi, you should take some time to get the

lay of the land. Let's not make things tough for Josie."

Josefina agreed, "Sandi, settle in first. When the next recruitment comes up, I'll make sure you get priority."

"Thanks, Josie!" Sandi's face lit up with a smile.

Makiko and Sandi made their way out together.

As they walked through the campus, Makiko seemed a bit on edge.

Sandi trailed quietly, not daring to make a peep.

"Sandi," Makiko began, "Josie is family. Make sure you stick close to her while you're here."

"Mom, I will. I'll go see her later."

Makiko's expression softened, "I'm

glad to hear that. We worry about you being here alone at the University of Melbourne. Since you've got family arotiad, keepin touch, alright?"

"Yes, Mom, I get it."

The word "connected" hit home; she knew exactly what her mom was hinting at.

...

Meanwhile, Josefina was nibbling on a bagel, with Mandy by her side.

"Josie, you need to keep an eye on those two relatives of yours. They should know they can't just waltz in without going through the proper channels We're not running an open buffet here."

"Mandy, don't worry. I won't let them skip the rules. Every group has its own way, and we stick to ours."

"That's what I love about you, Josie. You're straightforward and no-nonsense."

Josefina chuckled, "How's it going working with Percy?"

"Pretty good. He's serious, but I've learned a ton from him. It's been really rewarding."

"Serious?" Josefina was surprised to hear this.

"Very serious, especially when it

comes to work. He's meticulous and

focused," Mandy grinned. "But with a face like his even his seri

isn't too intimidating.

Handsome is as handsome does.

side

Josefina was a bit thrown. The Percy she knew wasn't like that at all.

Maybe she didn't know him as well as she thought.

Just then, someone showed up at the door.

"Fiona, it's been ages!"