Ch. 1821..1830
Chapter 1821 How Dare You Touch Master Felch
The assassin pointed the gun at Francesca, warning sternly, “Tell that thing to get off right now or I'll kill you!"
“Put down your gun now,” Francesca retaliated in an unhurried manner, raising her brow. “If not, your leader is going to die.”
"You—"
“Ah!”
Before the assassin could speak, the green snake bit into Pastor's neck, causing the latter to scream in agony. In the blink of an eye, his face flushed.
The assassin put down his gun hurriedly, not daring to threaten Francesca anymore.
As for the other assassins, they were shocked and at a loss for what to do.
"If anything happens to me, none of you will be leaving here alive. Ah!” Pastor shouted.
He was quite incredible for being able to warn Francesca even while being in so much pain. Thinking Francesca was one of Danrique’s subordinates, Edward quickly advised, “Mr. Lindberg, we can talk this out—"
“She's not one of my men. I can't control her.” Danrique shrugged, looking as though there was nothing he could do.
“All the people out there are Pastor's men.” Edward panicked, and he persuaded, “If something happens to him, we're all going to suffer.”
Francesca frowned. Just as she was about to speak, Danrique suddenly clapped. The windows opened and a group of bodyguards leaped in from the windows, aiming their guns at Pastor's assassin.
Everything happened in a flash. Before the assassins could come to their senses, they were already restrained.
At the same time, the door opened, and the other bodyguards of the Lindberg family rushed in. Meanwhile, all the assassins had crashed to the ground.
"You—" Pastor was shocked by the scene before him. “So, you were prepared.”
“It's always best to be on one’s guard,” Danrique said plainly. “If you talk nicely, I'll do the same. Since you chose to take action, I can't just do nothing, can 17”
"Edward—" When Pastor was about to speak, he crashed onto the sofa in pain.
“Looks like I, the middleman, have become a joke.” Edward smiled bitterly and said in a pleading tone, “Now that things have come to this point, I just hope you guys don't slaughter each other in my territory for my sake.”
“Mr. Lindberg...” William reminded softly. “We're still at Summerbank...”
His words were very suggestive, but only several important people understood them. What he was trying to say was that Pastor was not alone; he had other hidden forces that were backing him. Those forces had great authority in M Nation. If they were to kill Pastor there that day, it might be difficult for them to leave Summerbank.
“Edward, I'm sure you've witnessed Pastor's attitude,” Danrique said calmly. “He was the one who disrespected us first. I was just trying to protect myself. So, this result is what he brought upon himself.”
"Yes, I agree,” Edward nodded.
"Since this negotiation is unsuccessful, then we shall do things based on our abilities in the future. May the winner take it all. That's all, then.” Danrique got to his feet and got ready to leave.
"Wait." Edward quickly stood up. Pointing at the tiny green snake on Pastor's neck, he said, “That thing...”
“Francesca!” William shot her a look, frowning.
“Sam!” Francesca called out as she extended her arm. The snake slithered onto the carpet, crawled up Francesca’s body, and curled itself around her arm like an emerald bracelet.
“Pastor!”
Several assassins quickly went forward to help him up, while the others pointed their guns at Francesca.
Immediately, the Lindberg family’s bodyguards aimed their guns at them. “Don’t you dare touch Master Felch!”
"Master Felch is one of us. How dare you offend her?” Sloan added.
At that moment, Francesca had a powerful status in the hearts of the Lindberg family's bodyguards. They would not hesitate to protect her without needing to wait for Danrique’s instructions.
“I hate people who overestimate their abilities the most.” Francesca threw Pastor's words back at him. “Remember this. Don't you ever underestimate anyone.”
With that, she turned around and left.
Chapter 1822 You Are Francesco
They got into the vehicle to leave the manor.
Naturally, Francesca got into Danrique’s car. Behind her, William called out, “D-Dr. Felch...” Francesca turned at her shoulder. "Mm?"
“I...” William parted his lips before changing his mind. “Take care!”
“I need some time to figure out the treatment plan for your leg. I'll contact you when it's ready,” Francesca explained. After flashing him one last grin, she entered the car.
William looked away reluctantly before realizing Danrique was glaring at him. He immediately said, “Danrique, goodbye!”
“Goodbye!” Danrique replied icily before wounding the window up.
The convoy drove away slowly.
Sean glanced at William's convoy through the rearview mirror and said solemnly, “Pastor didn't send anyone after us. To play it safe, I reminded Prince William to leave M Nation as soon as possible.” “Mm,” Danrique grunted in reply. He seemed to be deep in thought.
“Mr. Lindberg, when are we leaving?” Sean asked carefully.
“Find her.” Danrique looked away.
Wess
Sean knew what Danrique’s greatest regret was. He has been looking for the girl all over the years. Now that we finally get a clue, he won't give up easily.
"Who are you talking about?" Francesca asked curiously. “Francesco?”
She thought Danrique wanted to find Francesco.
"You're Francesco, right?”
Suddenly, Danrique’s gaze fell on her. A riot of emotions glinted in his eyes.
Francesca jolted in fright. It took her a few seconds to find her voice. “Who told you that?” “Looks like I got it right.” Danrique arched a brow. “You hid yourself welll”
“Dr. Felch is the legendary Francesco?” Sean could barely hide his shock. “No wonder Robin kept asking about you after your first meeting. I asked about Francesco, but he refused to divulge anything. Prince William paid a lot of attention to you, too. I thought he liked you, but now I realized that's because you're Francesco!”
“That was how you guessed it?” Francesca asked with her brows raised.
“A while ago, William called you “Francesca’ twice,” Danrique added. “It was just a guess, but your reaction proved that I am right.”
“I didn't mean to keep it a secret from you. I don’t remember anything,” Francesca revealed honestly. “Prince William recognized me and told me about my past. That was how I found out I was Francesco.”
"Oh, we've been searching for you high and low, but turns out you were with us!” Sean was delighted. “There's hope for Mr. Lindberg!”
“You don’t trust my medical skills, right?” Francesca retorted icily. “Didn't you kick me out?”
“Oh, that was a misunderstanding,” Sean hastily explained. “I was a fool.”
"Forget about it. Let's stop talking about the past.” Francesca gave a dismissive wave. “We should discuss the medical fee. Now that my identity is different, shouldn't you pay me extra?”
"Well, about that...” Sean cast Danrique an awkward look.
"You asked for a hundred million in M Nation's currency. Wasn't that enough?” Danrique’s brows snapped together. “Don't be too greedy.”
“If 1 didn't save you today, you'd be—"
“I was fully prepared even if you didn't take action,” Danrique interjected calmly. “I wanted to ask you a question, though. Why is my little green snake with you?”
“I found it hiding in your luggage,” Francesca revealed smugly. “After playing with it for a while, it slithered into my pocket obediently.”
“The snake is extremely venomous. You aren't afraid of it?” Sean got curious. “Besides, why did it listen to you obediently?”
“I was born with the ability to tame animals,” Francesca replied proudly.
She lifted her arm, and the snake curled around her wrist.
Chapter 1823 What Do You Want
Danrique gazed at her with an unreadable expression. “If you're that good, the cut on your face should be healed by now, right? Why are you still wearing a mask?”
Francesca was no pushover. She immediately argued, “Many people are looking for me. If they know what I look like, my whereabouts would be exposed. Isn't that dangerous?”
“Dr. Felch, we understand your concern. However, we're not ordinary people. There's no way we'll expose your privacy,” Sean explained.
“I can't be sure about that.” Francesca rolled her eyes. “Better safe than sorry, right?”
“Fine. You're right.”
Danrique accepted her explanation.
Francesco is indeed capable. Besides her medical skills, she also has many other skills. As she is hot- tempered, she must've offended many people. Even I can't help imagining how I'll teach her a lesson after she treated my poison.
Thus, he could understand why she made so many enemies and refused to show her face to the public.
“You've found me. Why aren't you in a hurry to leave?” Francesca asked. “Sam had bitten Pastor, so he should be barely alive. He won't let the matter slip.”
“I need to find someone,” Danrique answered as he caressed his black cross necklace hanging before his chest.
“I saved you today. Shouldn't you reward me?”
Francesca's gaze was attracted by his necklace and forgot to ask who he was looking for.
"What do you want?”
Despite finding her greedy, Danrique knew he had to thank her for helping him. If everything were to go according to his plan, he would have to waste a few bullets.
“I want this...” Francesca pointed at his necklace.
Danrique frowned and glared at her icily.
Wariness, fury, impatience, disgust and disdain brewed in his gaze.
"Why? Am I not allowed to ask for that?” Francesca was bemused.
Does he know the origin of the necklace?
"Dr. Felch!” Sean stopped her and tried to persuade her to change her mind. “You can have anything except for Mr. Lindberg!”
"Huh?" Francesca’s confusion heightened.
“Mr. Lindberg is a dignified and influential person. How could you covet him boldly? T-That's not right,” Sean stuttered.
He was being reserved instead of being direct.
"ah..."
Comprehension dawned on Francesca. They thought I want Danrique. But all I want is that necklace! “I don’t want him. I want—"
"You also can't get his body!” Sean pulled her aside and said anxiously, “Please stop making unreasonable demands! Mr. Lindberg has remained celibate for years. He isn't one who would have one night stands.”
Francesca was utterly speechless. What kind of person do they think I am? A shameless philanderer who has set her eyes on Danrique’s looks? How could he assume I wanted his body?
“You're shameless!” That was what Danrique assumed, too. He promptly shot her an eye-roll.
"_w
"Dr. Felch... No, Dr. Francesco,” Gordon chimed in. “We have many male bodyguards working at Lindberg Corporation. They are over one hundred and eighty five centimeters tall and muscular. Their looks vary, but I can summon them so you can take your pick!”
"Yes, that's right.” Sean nodded profusely in agreement. “As long as you stop coveting Mr. Lindberg, you can pick whoever you want.”
He even pushed Sloan to the front and said, “Sloan is a great choice. He's nineteen years old, young and handsome. You can consider him.”
“Dr. Felch...” Sloan took one look at Francesca and lowered his head as his cheeks flushed red.
Chapter 1824 Female Pervert
Francesca was lost for words. What did I do? Why do they think I'm a female pervert? They thought I wanted to sleep with Danrique and offered Sloan as a sacrifice.
“Dr. Felch, if he isn't to your liking, I shall summon the others later...” Sean offered earnestly, for he wanted to solve the problem for his employer.
“No need.” Francesca's expression darkened as she declared coolly, “I want Mr. Lindberg. No one else can take his place!”
They took me for a pervert, so I shall make it the truth! Otherwise, I would've been wrongly accused for nothing.
Everyone gazed at her in shock.
Oh, what a brazen woman. She's being shamelessly open with her feelings and does whatever she wants...
"Hey!" Danrique’s face flushed a dark red in anger.
“Dr. Felch, Mr. Lindberg is in love with someone else. You can't force him to like you,” Sean replied in exasperation.
“I don't care. I want him!” Francesca demanded.
She was inwardly pleased to see Danrique’s upset face and even reached out to pinch his chin. “You're a hunk, huh?”
“Scram!” Danrique slapped her hand away and glared at her in disgust. “If you lay a hand on me again, I shall chop your hand off!”
“My hand in exchange for your life. It's a bargain,” Francesca replied cheerfully instead of getting mad at his rude reply.
Her words were pretty easy to understand—if he were to chop her arm off, no one else could treat his condition.
That was why she said it was a bargain to get his life in exchange for her arm.
"Hey!"
Danrique was close to blowing his top, but Francesca grinned and told him, “Bear with me until you get cured. No, even if I managed to cure you, you can't touch me. What if you get sick in the future? You'll still have to ask for my help.”
"Someone!" Danrique barked impatiently. “Seal her lips!”
“Uh...” Sean and Gordon shared a look instead of taking action.
“Mr. Lindberg...” Sloan wanted to defend her, but changed his mind and swallowed his words.
“All right. I shall stop talking. Will that suffice?” Francesca shut her mouth and raised her hands to surrender.
The odds are against me, and a wise man knew when to back down.
Danrique gestured at her in a warning manner before leaning into his seat and shut his eyes.
He was feeling unwell, but she kept annoying him.
As he couldn't outwit her, he had no choice but to do it the hard way.
Francesca knew him well enough, so she didn’t confront him head-on. However, she'd only give in after making him utterly furious.
It seemed like he was the winner, but the real winner was none other than Francesca.
She had him on a leash, but he didn't even realize that.
The journey back home took over three hours by car.
Danrique’s condition worsened, for his temperature kept rising and dropping.
Sean asked Francesca to figure out a solution as soon as possible.
Hearing that, Francesca touched Danrique’s forehead, “Taking medicine won't do him any help. We need to return to the mountain so I can come out with a new treatment plan.”
“But Mr. Lindberg is feeling unwell. Don't you have any medicine to relieve his condition?” Sean urged.
“No,” came Francesca’s calm answer. “Don’t worry, he won't die.”
“You...” Gordon fumed. “Dr. Felch, this is too much.”
"You can take over my position any time!” Francesca shrugged nonchalantly.
Gordon was dumbfounded and couldn't find any response.
“All right, stop arguing so Mr. Lindberg can rest in a quiet environment,” Sean cut in.
He then told the driver to speed up.
The car increased its speed and sped all the way to the mountain. To save time, Sean sent someone to the lab to find the snake that bit Danrique.
Kerrie applied an ice pack to Danrique’s forehead to cool him down.
In a daze, Danrique muttered, “Cece...”
This time, Francesca heard the name clearly. Her heart skipped a beat, and an indescribable feeling overwhelmed her heart.
Chapter 1825 Fever Subsided
Back on the mountain, Francesca drew the snake's blood to run tests so she could decide on the final treatment plan.
Sean remained by Danrique’s side.
Feeling anxious, Gordon kept coming to Francesca to urge her.
At two in the morning, Francesca finally prepared the new medicine and fed it to Danrique at once. She also changed his dressing.
After everything was done, Francesca was drained of energy. She ordered, “Wipe his body and change his clothes.”
With that said, she turned to return to her room.
“Dr. Felch, you can't leave!” Gordon stopped her from leaving. “What if Mr. Lindberg gets a recurring fever?”
“I'll take a shower and come back here,” Francesca told him wearily. “Tonight's critical, so I'll stay with him. Prepare a blanket for me on the sofa.”
“Got it. I'll do that now.” Gordon bobbed his head.
Francesca went back to her room to take a shower. However, the flaring pain from the wound behind her head reminded her that she couldn't stay for long.
I have to cure Danrique as soon as possible and then leave with the money. Hmm, who is that “Cece” he keeps mumbling in his sleep, though? Why do I feel odd every time I hear this name? Alas, the more she pondered over it, the more her head ached.
Holding the back of her head, Francesca told herself to stop pondering over the matter.
After blow-drying her hair and changing into a fresh outfit, she walked into the neighboring room. At once, Sean greeted her. “Dr. Felch, Mr. Lindberg is still running a temperature and showing no signs of cooling down.”
"He took the medicine half an hour ago. Don't worry.” Francesca yawned and flopped onto the sofa lazily. “I'll take a nap. If he’s still running a temperature an hour later, wake me up.”
“Can you even sleep here?” Gordon glanced at the crowded and brightly lit room with a frown. Francesca hugged a pillow and rolled over to face the sofa. Soon, she began snoring.
“I've got to hand it to her,” Gordon muttered under his breath and shook his head.
“Turn off the overhead light,” Sean ordered.
The maid immediately did as told and only left the wall lamp on. Bathed in dim light, the room was now suitable for sleeping.
Sean dismissed the others and only left two medical staff behind.
He and Gordon stood aside silently to keep watch over Danrique.
An hour soon passed. Kerrie took Danrique’s temperature and reported excitedly, “His temperature has dropped from thirty-nine degrees Celsius to thirty-eight degrees Celsius!”
"He's still having a fever,” Gordon remarked with a frown. He immediately woke Francesca up. “Dr. Felch? Dr. Felch!”
Francesca muttered sleepily, “What happened? Didn't his temperature decrease?”
"Yes, it decreased, but he’s still having a fever at a hundred,” Gordon reported
"Great. Continue observing him,” Francesca responded.
She rolled over and went back to sleep.
Yet another hour passed. Kerrie took Danrique’s temperature again and discovered his temperature was back to normal. Delighted, she announced, “His fever subsided! Mr. Lindberg’s fever subsided!” Sean and Gordon hurried over to take a look. Indeed, Danrique’s current body temperature was ninety-seven. He was back to normal.
“That's fantastic!” They beamed happily.
"His fever has subsided?” Right then, Francesca’s voice rang out. She got to her feet and came over to Danrique. Rubbing her eyes, she yawned and felt Danrique’s forehead. “Mm. He's okay now!" “Will it come back?” Sean asked worriedly.
“I can't be sure about that.” Francesca glanced at the necklace on Danrique’s neck. “I'll keep watch here, so you can get some rest.”
"We'll keep you company,” Gordon said. “We can't let our guard down at this critical moment.” “Yes.” Sean nodded. “Kerrie, you should get some rest.”
“Yes, Mr. Lowe.”
Kerrie lowered her head and retreated. She hadn't slept for a few days and was exhausted.
“Go to the study room instead of standing here like door guardians,” Francesca said and returned to the sofa. “I'll take a nap and then take his temperature later.”
Chapter 1826 Shameless Woman
Both Sean and Gordon knew Francesca hated crowds, so they went to the study room obediently. After spending some time with her, they had grown to trust her.
Besides, they didn't get to sleep for they had to keep watch on Danrique every night. Feeling drained, they sat on the sofa and soon fell asleep.
Sound asleep, they started snoring lightly.
Francesca's eyes snapped open instantly as she flashed a smug grin.
After making sure they were sound asleep, she got up and went to the bed to get Danrique’s necklace.
However, the necklace was really thick, so she couldn't pull it off. She dared not tugged at it forcefully, for the rest would know it was her doing if she were to leave a mark on Danrique’s neck. Francesca turned at her shoulder, and both bodyguards were sleeping soundly. They didn't even stir.
She inched nearer hastily and used both hands to remove the necklace.
She was about to succeed when Danrique suddenly rolled over and pinned her underneath his body.
Francesca's eyes widened in shock and instinctively tried to shove him away. Alas, his body was as firm as an iron wall. He also had one leg over her body, and she couldn't push him away.
After trying to remove herself to no avail, Francesca reached out for the necklace again.
Right then, Danrique opened his eyes abruptly.
Under the dim light, his amber eyes sparkled as he glared at her. It felt like she was being watched by a beast that was woken up rudely.
Francesca was lying in his arms on her side, and her hands were stretched out toward him. Her lips were puckered as she was feeling nervous
It didn’t seem that she was trying to steal his necklace. Instead, it looked like she was holding his face and trying to kiss him sneakily.
Er."
Sean, who had woken up from the commotion, had the same thought when he spotted them. “Ungrateful Wretch!” Danrique kicked Francesca away.
His kick was so forceful that Francesca tumbled down the bed. She held her butt and rolled around on the ground in pain.
After a few seconds, Sean snapped back to reality and went over to help her up. “Dr. Felch, are you all right?”
“B*stard!” Francesca held her waist and stood up, her expression contorted in anguish. “Why did you kick me?”
“Drag her out,” Danrique gave an order curtly, for he was done putting up with her nonsense. “She shall stay three meters away from me!”
“Uh.” Briefly stunned, Sean grunted in acknowledgment. “All right.”
Carefully, he gestured Francesca toward the door.
Francesca shot him a nasty look and spun on her heels before stalking away.
Sean followed behind her and escorted her out.
Outside the room, Francesca rubbed her sore butt and cursed, “B*stard, how could he kick me?” “Well...” Sean touched his nose awkwardly. “Mr. Lindberg won't cave even if you climb into his bed. Dr. Felch, you should give up.”
Francesca's eyes bulged in disbelief. “What do you mean by climb into bed? I..."
Before she could finish, Sean turned and returned to the room.
Francesca was left alone in the corridor.
To say her emotions right then were complicated was an understatement.
She reflected, Did I do anything wrong? Why do they think that way? A pity that I didn't manage to get the necklace.
Now that Danrique had ordered for her to stay at least three meters away from him, it would be incredibly hard for her to get the necklace.
Ugh, how annoying!
Feeling frustrated, Francesca went back to her room and fell back into her bed.
Shortly after, she fell asleep.
As a carefree and heartless person, she wouldn't spend too much time pondering over a matter. After all, she was sure that everything would work itself out.
In the room next to hers, Danrique couldn't fall asleep. I've never met any woman as shameless as her. She kept coming closer to try to take advantage of me. First, she took my first kiss from me. She even climbed into my bed earlier to try to have sex with me! How shameless of her!
Chapter 1827 Shot
“Mr. Lindberg, your fever has subsided. When you recover completely, we can kick her out,” Gordon assured him carefully.
“I've sent someone to contact that elderly doctor. He'll do his best to bring the good doctor here as soon as possible. We can ask that doctor to treat you using acupuncture and feed you your medicine while Dr. Felch watches from aside,” Sean reported.
He had already started making the arrangements.
“Get out,” Danrique ordered in irritation.
“But—" Gordon was about to protest when Sean stopped him. “All right. We shall excuse ourselves now.”
After shutting the door behind them, Gordon asked in a low voice, “What was that? We can't leave Mr. Lindberg alone in his room. What if he gets a fever again?”
“If Mr. Lindberg feels unwell, he'll summon us,” came Sean's answer. “He wants to be alone now, so let's not disturb him."
“All right.” Gordon nodded. “Our priority is to find that girl. After finding her, Mr. Lindberg will return to Erihal.”
“That's right. After today’s events, Pastor won't give up. He might take action soon, so we need to leave as soon as possible.”
“Mm. I'll go dig for more clues regarding the girl.”
“Sure.”
Gordon was about to leave when his phone rang. It was a call from Robin. “Gordon, we've been ambushed by Pastor's men.”
"Where are you?”
“I've sent you the address. Please send backup.”
“I'll be there right away.”
Gordon promptly gathered his men to help them out.
Sean reminded him, “Bring more men and be careful. Don't expose our whereabouts.”
“l know.” Gordon left in a haste.
It began to pour outside.
Strangely, Sean felt uneasy. I wish Mr. Lindberg can leave M Nation soon and return to Erihal. Otherwise, his presence is inevitably going to spark a bloodbath.
Francesca was sleeping so soundly that she didn't realize her phone was vibrating. Anthony gave her a few calls, but she didn't answer them.
The next morning, Francesca was woken up rudely by someone knocking on her door urgently. “Dr. Felch? Dr. Felch, wake up!”
"What is it?” Francesca snapped.
I didn't get to sleep well for the past few days!
"Dr. Felch, Prince William was shot. He's in a dangerous situation, so please take a look at him!" the maid urged.
Francesca jolted awake at once. She scrambled out of bed and open the door hastily without even putting her slippers on. “What happened?”
“Prince William was attacked when he was heading to the airport last night. Mr. Gordon rushed there to save them, but Prince William has been shot...”
The maid led her to the guest room while explaining the entire situation.
“Where was he shot? Is it life-threatening?”
As Francesca spoke, Danrique stepped out of the room.
Their gazes met. Danrique immediately looked away coolly.
Francesca rolled her eyes and hurried into the guest room.
William was lying in bed weakly, his face pale from losing too much blood. His white suit was stained red by his blood.
“Your Highness, hang on. Dr. Felch will be here soon,” Robin comforted him anxiously.
"Dr. Felch, hurry!” After spotting her, Sean dragged her to the bed. “Prince William was shot, and the bullet is still inside his body.”
"Get out of my way.”
Francesca immediately checked William's wound and realized the bullet was inches away from his heart.
Her brows scrunched up as she ordered, “Get me my medical kit."
“Yes.” Kerrie brought over the medical kit as told.
Francesca put on gloves and used a pair of sterilized scissors to cut William's clothes open. She was prepared to remove the bullet for him.
At the same time, she said, “He's losing too much blood, so we'll have to get him to the hospital to get a blood transfusion.”
“He can't go to the hospital now,” Sean answered hastily. “Pastor's men are looking for us.”
Chapter 1828 Prepared To Leave
“There is a lack of medical equipment here. If he doesn't get any blood transfusion, he'll die.” Francesca's frown deepened. “Who will take responsibility if something happens to him?”
“Well...” Sean turned to Danrique to get an answer.
“Mr. Lindberg, nothing can happen to His Highness!” Robin chimed in fretfully.
"William's badly injured. If we bring him to the hospital now and run into another ambush, that will only serve to worsen his situation.” Danrique made up his mind. “What equipment do you need? I'll ask my men to get it right now.”
“That isn't enough. I also need blood,” Francesca responded briskly. “I'll prepare a list. You'll have to get the things prepared within four hours, or the consequences would be horrible.”
“I'll get to it right away,” Gordon promised.
Francesca scribbled down a list of things she needed swiftly and handed it to Gordon.
Gordon strode out to get the things needed. Robin followed after him and said, “Mr. Gordon, please do your best.”
"Don’t worry. I'll be back with the equipment and blood in time,” came Gordon's answer.
He then left hastily with his men.
Francesca tended to William's wound and stopped the bleeding. She stayed beside him all the while.
“Francesca...” William mumbled her name weakly and reached out to her.
Francesca took his hand, and he promptly fell unconscious.
Danrique’s brows snapped together at the sight. Strangely, he felt discomfort prickling in his heart. I thought she is only intimate with me. Turns out she does that to every man!
“You can leave. There's no need for all of you to remain here,” Francesca said softly.
Sean dismissed the rest and left two medical staff to be of help.
Robin and two subordinates stood watch beside William.
Danrique sank into the sofa. He wasn't about to leave, for William was injured because of him. He couldn't stay out of the matter.
Sean offered Danrique a blanket. “Mr. Lindberg, you've just recovered, so you need to rest well.” Danrique propped his head on his arm and started dozing off.
Everyone was worried sick about William, but Danrique was unfazed. Perhaps he trusted Francesca's skills, or perhaps he trusted that William would get lucky.
Francesca remained beside the bed and kept William company.
All she could do now was wait, for the equipment and blood weren't here yet.
William held her hand tightly as though that was the only way he'd feel safe.
Francesca didn't resist his touch. She didn’t remember her past, but William felt familiar to her. She couldn't stop herself from getting nervous after learning he got hurt.
However, the sight merely increased Danrique's disgust for her. Looks like she wants a handsome, rich, and powerful man instead of me. She has no loyalty in relationships whatsoever, and I'll never like her.
He caressed the black and gold cross necklace around his neck and thought of Cece. Cece's the best...
Gordon was efficient enough to get everything done before the time was up. He also brought along a surgeon and a few dependable medical staff.
Francesca began operating on William, and the rest retreated from the room.
After Danrique returned to his room, Gordon came to report to him. “Mr. Lindberg, we received an update that Pastor fell into a coma after the snake bit him. His men are looking for us now. The force behind him has also taken action. They have set up traps all over the city. Summerbank is unsafe now. Should we leave as soon as possible?”
Danrique pondered silently for a moment before giving a curt nod. “When William's condition stabilizes, we shall leave.”
Despite wanting to stay behind to find the girl, he had to consider the big picture.
William was seriously injured, so his situation would worsen if they were ambushed by the enemy.
I need time to find out the force behind Pastor before planning my next move. It's dangerous to go against them right now.
Chapter 1829 A Twist Of Events
"Got it. I'll make the arrangements at once.” Gordon quickly went to make the necessary arrangements.
“Tell Sean to do that,” Danrique commanded. “You should try to dig for more clues regarding that girl.”
“All right.” Gordon hurried off to carry out his orders.
Danrique refused to give up. I searched for seven whole years in Zarain, but she was nowhere to be seen. I can't believe I bumped into her in Lightspring. Alas, I didn't recognize her, and we went on separate ways. I don't want to miss this opportunity. I hope I can find her and bring her back to Erihal before my departure.
For the next two days, Gordon kept searching for that girl.
Sean had arranged for a private jet to bring them back to Erihal. They could depart anytime as long as William's condition was stable.
Two days of treatment later, William's condition finally improved. He wasn't in a precarious situation anymore, but he was still unconscious no thanks to his serious wound.
The force behind Pastor had mobilized its men to find Danrique and William.
Of course, William had been dragged into the mess. As they failed to find Danrique, they thought of capturing William to force Danrique to show himself.
That was why they attacked William and shot him that day.
For the greater good, Danrique decided to return to Erihal.
Of course, that was a huge risk, too. The force behind Pastor had assigned its men to keep watch on the airport. Once Danrique showed up, they would mobilize all men to capture him.
Hence, Danrique planned to split up.
That morning, Danrique ordered Gordon to escort William and his men to the airport. To protect William and to prevent his condition from getting worse, he told Francesca to keep them company. Francesca was feeling anxious as she hadn't gotten the necklace yet. Thus, she wanted to confront Danrique before leaving.
Danrique was changing his pants when someone suddenly barged into his room.
Turning at his shoulder, he spotted Francesca and immediately pulled his pants up. He staggered in his haste and nearly tripped on his feet.
Francesca spun around hastily. With her back to him, she explained, “I'm sorry. I had no idea you were changing your pants.”
"Are you even a woman?” Danrique flushed with anger.
“Yeah, in the flesh,” Francesca answered with a straight face.
“You're nuts,” Danrique glared at her and put on his pants swiftly. “Why are you here?”
"After I saved you previously, you promised to reward me, but you didn't do that yet.” Francesca went straight to the topic. “Now that we're going on separate ways, shouldn't you reward me now?” "What do you want?” Danrique asked.
“This.” Francesca pointed at the necklace around his neck and added, “Don't take it wrongly. I don't want you. What I want is this necklace.”
Without a word, Danrique looked at the gold and black cross necklace. He then raised his head to cast her a puzzled look. “So this is what you want?”
"Of course,” Francesca replied proudly. “I wanted this from the very beginning, but you kept misunderstanding my intentions.”
"Why would you want this?”
Danrique found her request strange, for he had gifted this necklace to Cece. There was nothing extraordinary about it.
This greedy and shameless woman should be asking for money. Why is she interested in this necklace?
“Nothing. I like collecting necklaces, and yours seem unique. That's why I want to get it,” Francesca made up an excuse.
She dared not say too much so Danrique wouldn't recognize that she was the person who held him as a hostage back at Casino Inferno.
That was the most humiliating moment of his life. If he knew that she was behind that, he would never let her go easily.
“I can't give it to you.”
Despite knowing something was wrong with her explanation, Danrique didn't feel like guessing her motives.
To be exact, he didn’t connect this greedy, shameless, and annoying tomboy with his beloved Cece.
Chapter 1830 The Future
"Why?" Francesca was flustered. “It's just a necklace. It isn't even expensive.”
“You're noisy,” Danrique said curtly. He was too tired to continue arguing with her. “Get out now.” "Hey!" Francesca huffed.
Right then, Sean knocked on the door and came in to report to Danrique. He saw Francesca inside and his employer wearing just a pair of pants, his shirt nowhere in sight. Utterly rattled, he spun on his heels to flee the scene.
"Come back!” Danrique demanded.
“Yes.” Sean came to a halt and turned over cautiously. He stood rooted to the spot as awkwardness engulfed his entire being.
“Pay her the medical fee,” Danrique ordered
“Yes.” Sean instantly offered the check to Francesca. “I've prepared the check for you. Here you go.” Francesca accepted the check. The sight of the amount made her beam in delight. “Besides this, what about the reward I should get after saving you?” she inquired.
Hmm, what excuse should I conjure to get the necklace back?
“I...” Sean shifted his gaze to Danrique.
“I don't owe you one,” Danrique said in exasperation. “If it wasn't for you, William wouldn't have gotten shot, and things wouldn't be this complicated. How dare you ask for a reward?”
"What do you mean?” Francesca was confused. “Are you being ungrateful?”
“The snake bit Pastor, and he has one foot in the grave. As he is in possession of important information, the force behind him is doing their best to capture Mr. Lindberg and Prince William,” Sean explained.
“Is that even my fault?” Francesca was dumbfounded. “If I didn’t take action, you would've been controlled by Pastor. Even if you had a plan and killed all the assassins out there, his men were inside the room...”
“Mr. Lindberg could take care of those minor figures easily,” Sean revealed with a grin. “Even if you didn't take action, we were certain of our win!”
“Do you mean I made things worse?”
Comprehension dawned on Francesca. If I didn't butt in, everything will still be under Danrique’s control. He would've cowered Pastor into submission without hurting the man. That way, the force behind Pastor would show themselves. After getting bitten, Pastor is on the brink of death. Things had gotten out of control.
Sean let out a cough. He didn’t dare to offend Francesca and had to be tactful. “Anyway, you were kind enough to offer help.”
"Wait a minute.” Something occurred to Francesca. “The force behind Pastor is going after you to get the antidote to save him. Will you hand me to them when we land in danger?”
“You're thinking too much,” Danrique hissed in displeasure. “If I have a dog, I won't leave it behind!” “Great.” Francesca heaved a sigh of relief before belatedly realizing the underlying meaning of his words. “You're the dog!” she retorted.
“No matter what, Prince William was dragged into the mess because of Mr. Lindberg. We need to send him home to Danontand safely.”
Sean gave another check to Francesca.
“Thanks for your help. Mr. Lindberg’s poison had been expelled, and his wound is recovering well. Please take good care of Prince William and make sure he recovers before you leave. This is your reward for treating him.”
"What do you mean?” Francesca took the check and asked uneasily, “Is this goodbye for us?”
“See you never!" Danrique announced before striding into the bathroom.
A wave of fury crashed through Francesca. Is he that eager to get rid of me? See me never?
“Dr. Felch, we're running out of time. Let's not delay any further, shall we? I'll see you out,” Sean urged and gestured for her to leave.
A deep line appeared between Francesca’s brows as she gazed at the bathroom. Inwardly, she felt really agitated. In ordinary circumstances, she would've kicked the door to the bathroom open to get the necklace from him.
However, after getting the necklace, she wouldn't be able to escape.
As Pastor's men were searching for them, she was most probably their target too. If I were to leave alone, I'll be in danger. Forget it. The odds are against me, and a wise man knows when to back down. There will be more chances for me to get it back in the future.