#Chapter 40 Flickers of Hope

Grace Her voice on the other end of the line was cool, detached, and held an edge of irritation that made my heart sink. This was the woman who had once guided me through the labyrinth of research, who had been my mentor in the days when I was just starting to formulate the idea of the longevity project. How could she be so cold now? “Grace,” her voice crackled with a hint of annoyance, “you do realize I’m retired, don’t you?” I clutched the phone tighter, swallowing my nerves. “I didn’t know, but... I need your help. There’s so much we could accomplish together.” A dry chuckle echoed from the other side. “Do you think your fake enthusiasm is enough to pull me back from retirement, Grace? I’ve been enjoying the sun, the beach, and the freedom for the past five years.” My heart sank. She’d been gone so soon after I withdrew? Desperation fueled my words. “You know it’s viable. It could change lives, save lives. I thought you--” She scoffed. “I knew it was viable then. But what a