Varya's hands were clasped over her mouth as she received the information. It was taking her time to process what he had just said.
The lab was hers. Dr. Brie had won the grant.
"Dr. Brie…" she trailed off, struggling to form words that correctly conveyed her appreciation.
"You're going to have to start calling me by my first name, Leono," he said with a short laugh.
Varya only smiled and shook her head.
"I'm so honored you're considering me for this position," she said.
"I'm not considering," he said. "I've made my decision. I'm just hoping you accept it."
"I couldn't say no to a request like that," she said, fondly. "Are you sure?" she asked. "I've only been here for a few months."
"I have never worked with someone who has such a limitless amount of knowledge stored away in their mind," he responded. "And at such a young age!"