The design of the medium-sized holographic projector was nearly complete. After producing the first prototype, only minor adjustments would be needed. With this milestone in sight, Chen Mo was already preparing for the next challenge: the miniature holographic projector.
This next step was far more complex.
Miniaturizing the technology required an extreme level of precision. Though the core principles were the same as the medium version, the drastic difference in size meant the internal structure and layout had to be completely redesigned. It would be far more difficult to manufacture—and far more valuable.
But no matter how troublesome, it was a challenge he had to face.
This was the key to unlocking the next level of access in the Science and Technology Library.
As he entered research mode, Chen Mo's mind sharpened and his thoughts began racing.
That night.
After dinner, Xiao Yu was curled up against Chen Mo on the sofa, quietly watching TV. From time to time, she accepted fruit from his hand, enjoying the peace of their simple, intimate evening.
When Chen Mo wasn't working in the study or out meeting people, the two of them liked to spend time like this—snuggled together, like they used to when they first started dating.
Rare moments of leisure like this were precious to him, and he soaked in the tranquility.
"Why did the driver change today? Wasn't it usually White Pearl?" Xiao Yu asked casually.
"They've gone to the capital to undergo potential development," Chen Mo replied. "It'll take a few days. The current bodyguards are temporary—Yang Lanlan and her team. All professional soldiers, arranged by Li Chengzhi. Once Wang Hai and the others are back, they'll take over again."
Xiao Yu nodded and didn't ask further.
Then Chen Mo suddenly remembered something. "Speaking of which, I nearly forgot."
He turned his head slightly. "Mo Nu, bring me my briefcase."
"Okay."
The robot sitting silently in the corner of the room suddenly came to life. A moment later, it returned with the briefcase and gently placed it in front of Chen Mo.
"What is it?" Xiao Yu asked curiously.
Chen Mo opened the case and pulled out three sealed vials of glowing liquid. He held them up and waved them in front of her with a grin.
"I brought these back from the lab today."
"Potential-enhancing drugs?" Xiao Yu blinked, surprised.
She had seen these before in the lab—more than once. She was familiar with the project and immediately recognized them.
"What are you doing bringing those home?" she asked, puzzled.
"They're for use, of course."
"For who? You?"
She took a vial from his hand and inspected it carefully. She understood just how valuable these were—if they got out, pharmaceutical companies would fight over them, and the price would be astronomical.
Chen Mo leaned closer and whispered into her ear, "Let me tell you a secret—I've used it before."
"Really? When?"
"Remember the first time I held your hand?"
Xiao Yu's expression softened as a smile spread across her lips. "You mean that time you nearly crushed my fingers? You were so nervous you bruised me."
It was her first time holding hands with someone, and Chen Mo had gripped her hand so tightly it left marks. She still remembered it vividly—and fondly.
Chen Mo laughed. "That was right after I took the drug. My strength had surged, and I wasn't used to it yet. That's why I overdid it."
He was bending the truth slightly, but it was harmless. After all, he couldn't tell her about the Science and Technology Library.
"No wonder you looked extra handsome that day. So it was the drug's effect. But why were you testing it on yourself?" she asked, frowning. "You shouldn't do that again."
"Alright, alright. I'll listen to my wife."
He could hear the concern in her voice, and it warmed his heart.
"Tonight, I want you to use one of them," he said gently. "You've got the next couple days free—perfect for adjusting to the effects."
"Me? What for? I'm not going to war," she said, confused.
"Who said only soldiers benefit from developing their potential?" Chen Mo chuckled. "This drug is like a key—it unlocks your body's full potential. It enhances immunity, increases cellular activity. Basically, it improves your health, boosts your energy, and even makes your skin look better."
"Seriously?" Xiao Yu's eyes lit up. "Then I want it!"
She trusted Chen Mo without hesitation. And the thought of becoming healthier and more beautiful? No woman could resist that.
Chen Mo knew her well. Xiao Yu was usually healthy, but around her period she tended to get weak or catch a minor cold. It was nothing serious, but it always bothered him. So he decided to help strengthen her constitution with the drug.
"I'll go prepare everything."
Chen Mo stood up and went to the bathroom. Five minutes later, he returned to escort Xiao Yu inside. A large tub of steaming hot water was already waiting.
"Wait… I thought the drug had to be injected?" Xiao Yu asked.
"That method works, but it's too intense—it can make you feel dizzy or unwell," Chen Mo explained. "So I've prepared an alternative: a medicated bath. I'll add the drug to the water. The active ingredients will absorb through your skin's pores. It's a gentler way and easier on the body."
He poured the contents of all three vials into the tub and stirred the water thoroughly.
Unlike the original black-colored version Chen Mo had used himself, this modified, purified version diluted into a soft golden hue. The scent was faint, not as pungent.
Once the water was ready, Chen Mo stepped aside. "Okay, go ahead."
"Alright."
Without any shyness, Xiao Yu undressed right in front of him. Her flawless body was illuminated in the soft bathroom light, and Chen Mo let himself enjoy the view for a moment.
She stepped into the tub—and immediately gasped.
"Hot!" she winced. Her fair skin quickly flushed rosy.
"It's supposed to be hot," Chen Mo said, grabbing a towel and gently wiping the sweat from her forehead. "It opens your pores and helps the drug absorb better. Just relax and get used to it."
"Okay…" Xiao Yu leaned back in the tub and closed her eyes, trusting him completely.
About ten minutes later, she started to feel an overwhelming drowsiness and gradually fell asleep in the warm, medicine-infused water.
Chen Mo stayed by her side the entire time.
When the water finally cooled and the treatment was done, he carefully lifted her sleeping form from the tub and carried her back to their room.