Twenty years ago, Adele was working as the lead researcher in genome editing at the Whitehead Institute, the predecessor of the Broad Institute.
Having married Daniel, whom she had been dating since her undergraduate days at M.I.T., right after completing her Ph.D., she gained worldwide attention as a scientist for her participation in the Human Genome Project (HGP), which successfully mapped the human genome in April 2003.
When the Broad Institute was established in the spring of 2004, aiming to utilize the genome map to study disease mechanisms and develop new diagnostics and treatments, Daniel left Whitehead. However, Adele remained to continue her efforts to perfect the gene-editing technology using CRISPR/Cas9.
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"Daniel, are you really moving? What about the dreams we've shared?" Adele felt heartbroken upon hearing about Daniel's job change.
"Adele, it's not like that! Even if I go to the Broad Institute, we can still do more research together for humanity. It would be great if you could come along…" Daniel replied quietly, gauging Adele's reaction.
"But I still have work to do at Whitehead. You know how important it is to complete the CRISPR technology!" she insisted. "Besides, the Broad Institute's research direction is too different from mine."
"I know, but developing new drugs and treatments using the genome map we completed is also very important."
"I understand, but with you leaving, I feel like I'm left alone. It seems like everything we achieved together is becoming meaningless…"
"It's just next door! And we'll continue to collaborate, so it won't be that different."
After Daniel's departure, Adele threw herself even more into her research. She often returned home late at night after being cooped up in the lab all day.
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Six months had passed since Daniel's job change. The most pleasant season in Boston was coming to an end.
On Cornelius Way, just three blocks from the lab, there was a cozy little home nestled among maple trees.
Adele opened the door, looking tired. Daniel, sitting on the sofa reading a book, greeted her warmly.
"You're late again," he said with a worried expression.
"Sorry, the experiment took longer than expected," Adele replied, setting down her bag and embracing him.
"What about dinner?" Daniel asked.
Adele looked at him with soft eyes and said, "No, I just managed to get by with coffee. How about you?"
"Pretty much the same. Shall we whip up something simple to eat?" At Daniel's suggestion, Adele nodded and headed to the kitchen. "Sounds good, let's cook together for the first time in a while."
They began preparing a simple meal in the kitchen, sharing their stories.
"I've been so busy lately that we haven't had a chance to talk. I'm sorry, Daniel!" Adele said softly, looking at him.
Seeing Adele's exhausted face made Daniel feel helpless, wishing he could do more than just offer warm words. He hugged her tightly and said, "It's okay, Adele! I'm just worried you might harm your health. I wish I could help in some way…"
"Don't worry, Daniel! Once I finish the current project, I'll have more time."
"Next year, let's have a baby and spend a lot of time together." Adele whispered as she nestled into Daniel's embrace.