Ch. 2001..2010

Chapter 2001

Relief flowed over the doctors at Danrique’s words, and Helen moved to give the spot of the lead surgeon to Dr.Felch.

Dr.Felch looked at the short-haired, unconscious girl on the bed, and his eyes clouded with emotions.

Without further ado, he examined the wound and the X-ray images on the screens before starting. Helen and the rest of the staff assisted him at his side.

Dr.Felch didn't utter a single sound or raise his head throughout the two-hour procedure He finally finished removing all the metal shrapnel from the wound and did a final examination before cleaning and closing up the wound in one fell swoop.

Helen could not help but express her admiration after the surgery.

"Dr.Felch, you have superb skills.You didn't have to look to know where the shrapnels were, and you removed them immaculately.Your control and strength were flawless even when a fragment was pressing on a nerve below her brain.There was simply no room for error."

"Yes, that was amazing!" the other doctors praised, and the female doctor translated what Helen said to Dr.Felch.

He removed his mask and said blandly, "No need to translate.Save the adulation and take good care of the patient”

His gaze was drawn to Francesca on the bed, the stormy look returning to his eyes.He wasn't even aware when Sam called out for him.

"Dr.Felch..Dr.Felch..Dr.Felch!"

He only snapped out of his reverie after Sam repeated his name several times.

"What?"

"We should leave now" Sam reminded politely.

"Okay."

Dr.Felch removed his mask absentmindedly, his gaze flicking to the screen, and he asked, "The person behind the screen, could you step out for a word?"

Meanwhile, Danrique was donning an isolation gown before going to Francesca.His hands stilled when he heard Dr.Felch, and he motioned for Gordon and the bodyguards to keep an eye on Francesca.He said, "After you, Dr.Felch.”

Gordon mentioned that Francesca insisted Danrique treat him with respect as a father figure. Danrique had dismissed that request with a "Nonsense," but now that he was in Dr.Felch's presence, Danrique found himself regarding him with deference.

Sam assisted Dr.Felch out of the room, and Danrique followed suit.

Although it was their first meeting, there was a peculiar sense of familiarity, as if they had met somewhere before.

They both took a moment to size each other up before recognition lit up their eyes.

"It's you?"

"It's you!"

Memories from seven years ago rose unbidden in their mind, and surprise twinkled in their eyes Francesca had saved Danrique seven years ago, and he had spent half a month convalescing in the mountains and met Dr.Felch briefly.

She pointed to Dr.Felch's silhouette at the time and remarked that he was the only loved one she had in the world.

Dr.Felch was aware that she had saved someone and that they had developed feelings for each other.

However, Francesca was still young, and Dr.Felch strongly opposed their budding love and limited her interaction with the outside world.

He told her to keep her identity private and not reveal her true name to anyone.

Thus, Danrique was kept in the dark about Francesca's situation, but Dr.Felch remembered him. Danrique had changed since seven years ago, so Dr.Felch spoke in an incredulous tone, despite being able to recognize him.

Danrique was convinced that Dr.Felch was Francesca's only loved one.

"I didn't understand why she believed you were the only person who could treat her, but now-" "Good, good, this is good!"

Dr.Felch cut him off and exclaimed vehemently before taking his leave with his head bowed, as though he had nothing to say or ask and was contented.

Chapter 2002

A complicated expression flashed across Danrique's eyes as he stared at Dr.Felch’s back as he walked further away.

Gordon rushed over and asked in a low voice, "Mr.Lindberg, could he be Ms.Felch's—"

"He is her master,” Danrique replied.

He had already guessed the man's identity.

Despite her young age, Francesca possesses incredible medical skills.

Therefore, she must have been under the tutelage of an expert.

That person is Dr.Felch.He isn't just Francesca's master, he is also her only loved one left in the world.

Gordon finally had a grasp of the situation.

"I see.Should we go after him?"

Shaking his head, Danrique said, "That won't be necessary.Both of them seem to be avoiding each other.Perhaps it's not the time for them to be reunited yet."

Gordon nodded in agreement.

"That's right. Maybe Ms.Felch wants to achieve something in her life before she goes back to see her master.As for Dr.Felch, perhaps he's waiting for a better opportunity for their reunion.”

"Maybe you're right.Send someone to protect Dr.Felch.When Cece's condition is stable, I'll personally send him back"

Danrique instructed.

"Understood."

Dr.Felch walked slowly down a long corridor for several minutes.

Seeing Dr.Felch's complicated expression, Sam thought he was exhausted.

Sam carefully supported him and suggested, "Dr.Felch, we should return to the hotel early and rest." "No.We should head back to Phoenix City" Dr.Felch said in a hoarse voice.

There was a tinge of sadness in his voice.

Sam was taken aback by the suggestion.

"We're leaving now? We haven't settled our medical fees yet. Ah, Dr.Felch, why are your eyes bloodshot?"

"Something got into my eyes because of the wind," answered Dr.Felch.

He fell silent afterward.

"It's quite windy in H City.After all, we're by the sea,” Sam muttered

In the ward, Helen was examining Francesca's condition.

With a look of delight, she announced, "The operation was a success.She will be under observation for another twenty-four hours.Everything will be fine if there are no complications.”

"That's wonderful!"

The team of medical staff was overjoyed.

Furthermore, some people whispered about seeking advice from Dr.Felch.

The ward plunged into silence the moment Danrique returned.

Everyone immediately stepped aside.

After listening to Helen's update in Ustranasion, Danrique instantly felt relieved.

Sitting by the bedside, he held Francesca's hand and quietly accompanied her.

Soon, Sloan brought the news that Dr.Felch wanted to leave to return to Phoenix City as soon as possible.

"Ask Dr.Felch to stay for another twenty-four hours.He can leave after the observation period is over" Danrique instructed

Sloan immediately went to relay the message.

Time ticked by as everyone waited for the doctor's update anxiously.

Danrique stayed at the hospital until noon the following day.

Francesca's condition had improved after a day.

"She's no longer in danger.She will be back to normal after recuperating for the next few months?’ explained Helen.

Upon hearing the doctor's words, Danrique finally let out a sigh of relief. He instructed Gordon and the others to protect Francesca.

Then, he brought Sean to visit Dr.Felch at Garden Villa.

Nevertheless, Dr.Felch had already packed his luggage and was determined to leave

Furthermore, he made it clear that he refused to meet with Danrique by asking the bodyguards to inform him not to visit him.

The bodyguards did not dare to stop him nor show disrespect.

Hence, they hurriedly called Sean to report the situation.

Danrique smirked upon hearing Sean's explanation.

"He's so stubborn.They're indeed a family."

Smiling, Sean said, "We're almost there.lt's right in front. The private jet is ready.I heard Dr.Felch has also brought his dog.Mylo is currently discussing with the airport management to allow the dog to board the jet."

"Remember to fulfill Dr.Felch's every wish," Danrique ordered.

“Understood.”

At that moment, a car drove up on the other side.

After poking his head out of the car window, Sean informed, "That's the car escorting Dr.Felch to the airport”

"Okay."

Danrique gestured for his subordinates to open the car door.

Just when Danrique was ready to send off Dr.Felch on the roadside, the barking of a dog could be heard coming out from the other car.

"Be quiet, Cece!"

Dr.Felch growled, seemingly displeased.

Danrique tensed up upon hearing that.

What on earth is going on?

Chapter 2003

Pfft! Sean could not hold himself back and burst into laughter.

Upon receiving Danrique's death glare, Sean lowered his head, not daring to breathe out loud. Danrique’s expression darkened at once.

The Cece I had longed for seven years was a dog! A freaking dog! He was seething with rage at that moment.

Francesca, how dare you fool me like that? Memories from seven years ago flashed across Danrique’s mind.

When he was being chased by his enemies, he fled to the mountains and was rescued by a young lady.She hid Danrique in the cabin where she took a respite from herding.

Moreover, she also treated him and served him meals every day.

Danrique developed an innocent crush on the young lady after they spent half a month together. However, she refused to tell him her name at first.

One day, she told him after being annoyed by his pestering.

"My name is Cece!"

Nevertheless, Danrique did not have time to ask more questions as his enemies were breathing down his neck.

To prevent dragging Cece into the matter, he fled in a hurry.

Alas, the two of them had lost contact since then.

Nevertheless, Danrique still held on to that name dearly in his heart after many years had passed. After getting himself to safety, he sent people back to Mount Wisteria to search for Cece. Unfortunately, all the efforts to locate her were in vain.

Perhaps Francesca and Dr.Feich moved to Mount Phoenix back then.

Or maybe they were only temporarily staying in Mount Wisteria and that was why we couldn't find them.

However, the most important right now is...

Looking at the dog, Danrique felt a sense of familiarity.

The brown dog has a missing ear on one side.lt's wearing a bell around the neck.

Isn't it the same dog Francesca had seven years ago? I can't believe the puppy is all grown up now. When Danrique asked Francesca for her name that time, she smirked and looked at the dog beside her.

"I'm Cece," she uttered.

The dog also wagged its tail at her.

Back then, he did not think much besides as Cece was a beautiful name.

After thinking about it, Danrique felt like he had been tricked.

Daé*n it! A vortex of anger swirled inside Danrique.

Nevertheless, there was nothing he could do at that moment.

I can't possibly drag Francesca out of the hospital bed and punish her, can 1?

"Mr.Lindberg, Dr.Felch is getting off; Sean reminded him from the side.Snapping back to reality, Danrique raised his head and looked at Dr.Felch, who was getting out of the car.He was followed by Sam while holding the dog, Cece.Cece bared its teeth and barked at Danrique.

Upon receiving his stern glare, the dog became frightened and hastily hid behind Sam, wagging its tail timidly in silence.

"Mr.Lindberg, you don't have to do this.She's still in the hospital.You should stay by her side" said Dr.Felch.

"It's fine.She's no longer in danger. came here because I wanted to tell you the news personally.She asked me to treat you with the same respect as my father.Therefore, I have to see you off in person? Danrique said politely.Danrique also had a relative whom he respected, Isabella.He could understand Francescas feelings toward Dr.Felch.As a result, he had to do that on Francesca's behalf.

"All right.” Dr.Felch nodded without saying much.

Before leaving, he added, "I'm glad you're here.Now, go back and stay with her."

“All right.”

Nodding, Danrique helped him get into the Car.

After sitting down, Dr.Felch added, "She's weak.So, you must take care of her!"

"Don't worry.l will take good care of her."

Danrique did not mull over Dr.Felch’s words.He thought the latter was merely talking about Francesca's poor health after her operation.

"Goodbye!"

"Take care, Dr.Felch;’ Danrique uttered loudly.Looking up at Danrique, Dr.Felch slightly moved his hand that was holding the cane.His worried gaze brightened up at once.

 

Chapter 2004

The car drove slowly in the direction of the airport.

Ever since meeting Danrique, the dog, Cece, quiet down, lying meekly on the back seat without moving, but its tail wagging all the time.

"Have some hot tea, Dr.Felch.” Sam handed the thermos of brewed tea to Dr.Felch.

"You seem to have something on your mind?" The old man let out a deep sigh.

"In the past, I always wanted to keep her on the mountain, thinking that was the best protection for her.Yet now, I discovered that everyone has their own destiny, and everything has been pre- arranged...”

"Huh?" Sam scratched his head as a sign that he did not understand.

"That guy is not bad!"

Dr.Felch mumbled to himself again.He looked at the clear sky outside the window as a smile appeared on his face, carrying the warmth of an old father.

Francesca was still unconscious when Danrique returned to the hospital.

Helen told him that someone with that kind of head injury would be unconscious for a long time, so he needed to wait patiently.

However, before she woke up, it was best to remain in the hospital to prevent any emergencies and complications due to untimely treatment.

Hence, Danrique told someone to set up a small bed in the ward and bring his clothes over.

For the next three days, he stayed with Francesca in the hospital.

Despite not knowing how to take care of others, he stayed in the ward every day and never left He merely wiped her face with a hot towel at most and didn't dare to do the same for her body as he would get all nervous and blush.

That night, Danrique sat on the sofa chair next to the hospital bed, reading emails on his tablet and handling official business while Sean and Heidi waited by the door.

Sean brought him a desk lamp.

"The light is too dark and is bad for your eyes, Mr.Lindberg.It's better to use the lamp.”

Danrique could have just switched on the lights.

However, he felt that it would disturb Francesca, as she could not sleep with the lights on. Otherwise, she would not sleep well.

For that reason, he only left the emergency lights on and worked in the dark.

Sean could not bear to see that, so he brought the lamp over.

"Take it away!"

Danrique frowned.

"This lamplight isn’t strong, and the tone is warm, so it won't hurt Ms.Felch's eyes" Sean replied softly.

"I said take it away." Danrique sounded displeased.

"Understood."

Sean did not dare to comment further and hurriedly took the desk lamp away.

Danrique put down his tablet and rubbed his tired eyes before turning to look at Francesca, who was lying on the hospital bed.He gently held her hand and said softly, "How can you sleep so much? It's been three days, and you still haven't woken up..."

However, Francesca was completely still and seemed to still be in a deep sleep.

Danrique leaned forward and kissed her forehead.

While gently stroking the hair on her forehead and looking at her delicate and beautiful face, he recalled many past events.

As the thoughts flowed in his mind, he rested his head beside her and drifted off to sleep.

Sean draped a jacket over Danrique before leaving quietly with Heidi.

The room plunged into silence.

Under the dim light in the room, Francesca moved slightly, as though she was struggling.

It was as if there was a dark force that intended to drag her to the abyss of hell, but at that moment, a pair of slim and slender hands grabbed her hand in time, pulling her into the light.

After a long time, she woke up with a jolt and was touched when she saw the familiar figure next to her.

It's him, Danrique! The hand that pulled me out of the abyss and saved me from misery in the dream was his! Even in his sleep, he still held her hand tightly.

The temperature from his palm carried a kind of beautiful warmth.She looked at him quietly, recalling many past events

"It was you who saved me?"

"That's right.I'm your savior!"

"Thank you!"

"Don't mention it! But you must be grateful to me!"

In actuality, she had just acquired some medical knowledge back then and had nowhere to put it to use.

Since she happened to find an injured person, she could just experiment on him.

Master doesn't allow me to treat extremely complex and serious medical conditions.

Meanwhile, this person happens to be badly injured and looks like he's about to die...

What a great fab rat!

 

Chapter 2005

For the next half month, Francesca experimented with various treatments on Danrique, such as acupuncture, applying poultices, and feeding him her self-created medicine.

Although her wound-dressing was messy and rough, and she hurt him each time she applied the medication, he gritted his teeth and did not say a word

There were even two occasions when he passed out from the pain.She was so frightened that she scrambled to perform acupuncture on him to wake him up.

Despite turning pale from the pain and sweating profusely, he still said to her gratefully, "You saved me again.Thank you!"

"You're most welcome..."

Francesca was wondering how to conjure up an excuse to explain the situation, but he did not think much about it at all and even thanked her.She instantly breathed a sigh of relief and continued to torment him without getting distracted.

He was truly obedient and took whatever medicine ! gave him.

No matter how bitter they were, he didn't even frown.

After each dose, he would thank me with a very pleasant voice.

He was the perfect lab rat! To let him stay longer, Francesca even stole her master's clothes for him to wear and brought him delicious food from her master...

All she wanted was for him to remain there so that she could keep using him as a lab rat.

After all, I still have many medical questions that I haven't turned into practice.

For example, if a person were stabbed forty-nine times, but every one of them avoided any vital organs, would that person die? There's also my new research on cosmetology.

After soaking for ninety-one days, would a woman become shapely? Umm, although it's a bit cruel to use him for this experiment, what choice do I have? He's my only fab rat...

At that time, the fourteen-year-old Francesca's head was full of little tricks.

However, in the eyes of Danrique, they were all filled with warmth and care, for he never had such close contact with a female, and no one had ever taken care of him and saved him with such sincerity except Isabella.

Coupled with the first awakening of love among youths, Danrique began to develop a different kind of feeling for Francesca.

Of course, the budding period of his love was a little late.

On the other hand, although Francesca was innocent and ignorant, it was also her first time having such intimate contact with the opposite sex.

On top of that, she found her lab rat extremely good-looking, so, she also liked to interact with him. Previously, due to memory loss, Francesca had forgotten these details, but after the surgery, she remembered everything.

She suddenly felt that she seemed a little cruel, as she completely took Danrique as a test product, materializing the curiosity and excitement she had about medicine for the first time onto him regardless of whether he was in pain or not.

Of course, in line with the mission of saving lives and helping the wounded, she also treated him with good intentions.

Otherwise, he would not have recovered so quickly.It's just that the process was a little rough, that's all.

The innocent Danrique, on the other hand, regarded her as the pure and unsullied love of his life, remembering everything she had said.

He could not forget her throughout those seven years and kept sending people to look for her painstakingly.

He even kept bringing up the name "Cece"! Probably, when he sent someone to look for her during the past seven years, he also told his subordinates that "Cece"

was his first love and the most important girl in his life.

However, he has no idea that Cece is actually a little brown dog I raised with half of its ear missing... The thought of it made Francesca burst into a laughter fit, which then pulled the wound.

Danrique woke up at once.

He looked up at Francesca, stunned at first, before approaching and patting her chest.

"Are you all right? I'll call the doctor”

Just as he was about to call someone, she quickly stopped him.

"I'm fine."

Chapter 2006

"How can you be fine? I saw you twitching just now!"

Danrique switched on the wall lamp, held Francesca's face, and carefully scrutinized her.

"Could it be that the surgery had damaged your brain?"

"The one with the brain damage is you." Francesca did not know whether to laugh or cry.

"I was laughing, okay?"

He was puzzled.

"Laughing? About what?"

"Nothing."

At that moment, Francesca still did not dare to tell him about the origins of the name "Cece" Instead, she demanded frantically, "Oh, right! Give me my phone!"

"The bomb in the orphanage has been defused, and the children are fine."

Danrique told her the result directly, "Sean has told Ms.Layla that we're fine!"

"You—"

"One hundred and eighteen orphanages.” He looked at her with admiration.

"You're very capable, Francesca.”

"Don't worry.I've sent someone to protect them.From now on, no one can touch those children.” Danrique did not give her a chance to speak at all.

Francesca stared at him dumbfoundedly.It took a long time before she came back to her senses and said softly, "Thank you!"

"You're welcome!"He grinned.

"Is there anything else you want to ask?"

After some thought, Francesca hastily asked, "Who did my surgery?"

Tis:

Originally, Danrique wanted to tell her that it was her master.

However, at the thought that she must have her own reasons for not wanting the old man to know her identity, he changed his mind and replied, "It's that Dr.Felch.”

"Huh?"

Francesca immediately panicked.She hurriedly grabbed his hand and shot him another question "Then wouldn't he have seen my face?"

"No.You were lying face-down on the operating bed since the surgery was on the back of your head, so the old man didn't get a chance to see what you look like," Danrique explained rationally. "Good.That's good..."

Francesca heaved a long sigh of relief.

When my master performs surgery, others will prepare everything.

He only does the main surgery, so it's not surprising that he didn't see my face.

I haven't cut my hair in the past few months, and my originally short hair is now at shoulder length, My body shape and appearance have changed a bit compared to a few years ago, so surely he didn't recognize me.

As these thoughts went through her mind, she breathed a sigh of relief.

However, she quickly inquired anxiously, "Has Ma...Dr.Felch left?"

"A long time ago."

Danrique deliberately said, "He demanded to go back right after the surgery. told Sean to ask him to wait until you're no longer in danger before leaving.Sean begged for a long time before he finally gave in."

Hearing that, Francesca blurted out, "The old man doesn't like the hustle and bustle of the

city. There's no need to force—"

"Huh? How did you know that?" he deliberately asked.

"Most old people are like that"

Francesca quickly came up with an excuse.

"Besides, the old man is a miracle doctor.Hence, he requires a high degree of concentration to perform the surgery, so that means he doesn't like to be disturbed"

"That's true" Danrique nodded.

"Did you send Dr.Felch back properly? You didn't just ignore him after the surgery, right?"

She was still worried that they hadn't treated her master with respect.

"Knowing that the old man doesn't like noise, I've specially arranged for him to stay in Garden Villa in the suburbs.You must know that this treatment is only available to Old Mr.Nacht.In addition, I've also arranged for the Lindberg family's private jet to send him off when he leaves.The old man, his young apprentice, and the mongrel he brought are well taken care of"

Danrique intentionally emphasized the word "mongrel" while also raising a brow at Francesca, wanting to see if he could detect a trace of guilt and self-reproach on her face.

Cough! Cough! Sure enough, she avoided his eyes, and her expression was a tad awkward before she asked cautiously, "The old man also brought the dog?"

"Yes.It's always by his side like a precious treasure.”

Danrique deliberately exclaimed, "By the way, that mongrel has the same name as you.lt's also called Cece!"

Pfft! Francesca nearly choked on her saliva.

 

Chapter 2007

"Don't be agitated.”

Danrique quickly patted her heart and comforted her, "There's nothing wrong with having the same name as a dog.If you don't like it, I'll rename the newborn mastiff, Cece! A mastiff is a much better breed than a mongrel!"

"There's no need for that!"

Francesca's smile was very stiff.

“No, I can't name it Cece.”

Danrique narrowed his eyes and said seriously, "I should call it Frannie.Yes.It's decided then!" "Wait, Danrique—"

"Come!"

Before Francesca could stop him, Danrique called Sean over.

"Yes, Mr.Lindberg"

"Isn't there a female newborn mastiff that hasn't been named yet?"

Danrique instructed seriously, "From now on, call her Frannie!"

"Huh?"

From then on, the Lindberg family had a mastiff named Frannie, with black fur, and was a menace and savage since it was a puppy.lt was very much like Francesca...

However, the latter could not object to it.

After all, it was she who messed with Danrique in the first place back then.

Now that he was taking revenge in that manner, she could only relent to it.

Francesca could not get used to living in the hospital and wanted to be discharged early, so Danrique told Sean to ask Helen about it.

The doctor replied that it was fine for Francesca to be discharged since her wound was healing well as long as she could tag along and take care of her after that.

Sean cast a knowing look at Helen.She clearly wants to continue earning high medical fees.

Are doctors so greedy for money? Danrique, on the other hand, did not think much about it and readily agreed.

Hence, Helen immediately brought her assistant, prepared her medical kit and equipment, and left the hospital with them.

When they returned to the seaside villa, Kerrie and a maid went to assist Francesca in taking a shower.

The latter inadvertently saw through the mirror that the hair on the back of her head was gone, leaving a bald patch.

"Abhi!"

A scream of horror came from the bathroom.

Danrique rushed in, thinking that something had happened to her.

However, as soon as he saw Francesca standing in front of the floor-length mirror with Kerrie holding a mirror behind her, he immediately understood what was going on.

"How can the surgery be done without shaving your head?"

For some reason, seeing the defeated and angry expression on her face made him feel good.It was a sense of pleasure from exacting revenge.

"Even so, I can't have a bald spot!”

Francesca was on the brink of going ballistic.

"To make things worse, I am half-bald!"

"It's not as though I mind it."

Danrique ruffled the hair on her forehead.

"Get out!”

After pushing him out, Francesca told Kerrie to get a shaver and shaved all her hair right after. Being half-bald is too ugly.I'd rather shave everything off! Hence, the woman that stepped out of the bathroom after showering was completely bald.

Danrique was sitting on the sofa drinking tea and reading some documents.He looked up upon hearing footsteps and promptly spit out all his tea, followed by a coughing fit.

"What's the matter? Do I look hideous?"

Francesca somehow started to care about her image.

"No.lt's very cute.”

For some reason, seeing her new look, Danrique did not mind it at all.

On the contrary, he found it very cute.

Francesca covered her face with her hands as she burst into tears

"Get out.Don't look at me.Don’t see me before my hair grows out.”

Kerrie and another nurse helped her to lie down on the bed.

Despite feeling weak and not being able to move much at present, Francesca still covered her face with a pillow.

"Is everything done?"

Danrique did not respond to Francesca's words.

Instead, he said to the two female nurses, "You may leave.now"

"Okay."

The nurses did as told.

"Why did you tell them to leave.What about you—"

Before she could finish, he came over and lay down beside her.He then reached out and carefully wrapped his arms around her shoulders before pulling her into his embrace.

"A person must be truly attractive to pull off a bald look!"

"Do you not think it's ugly?”

Francesca buried her face in the nape of his neck and refused to look up.

"It's quite nice."

Danrique was a little tired, and he was falling asleep while talking.I have been looking after her in the hospital for the past few days and haven't been resting well every night...

Chapter 2008

Francesca raised her head and looked at his handsome features.Her gaze shifted to his injured arm once more, and she couldn't help but feel a little touched.

At that moment, she suddenly recalled how he had previously disregarded his own safety and well- being just to save her.

Furthermore, Kerrie had been continuously telling her about what had gone on in the outside world while she was still in a comatose state.

From the day she had her surgery til that day, he had never left her side for even a single moment. Through it all, he stayed next to her the entire time and ceaselessly cared for her.

That was especially touching for Francesca, especially since she knew he was the kind of man who lorded over everyone else and always had others at his beck and call to do his bidding.

The fact that he had gone on to learn how to care for her spoke volumes about the man.

Not only did he learn how to wipe down her arms and face, but he had also diligently fed her her medication and even picked up snippets of medical knowledge so he could care for her better in the future.

Aside from that, Danrique had also personally escorted Dr.Felch when the latter was out and about. That was because Francesca had once mentioned that he needed to treat Dr.Felch with the utmost respect fitting for someone of his stature.

Item by item, Kerrie slowly told Francesca all these in detail to keep her up to date on the happenings while she had been dead to the world.

As Francesca took all the information in, she couldn't help but feel touched by Danrique and how he had quietly expended an immense amount of effort in caring for her and looking out for her. Through his actions, she could truly pick up on the depth and sincerity of the affection he had for her.

That said, she was still confused by a single point.

She wondered if Danrique would find out about her relationship with Dr.Felch since he had learned that Dr.Felch's dog was named Cece.

Did Dr.Feich not recognize me? At that thought, Francesca couldn't help but feel a tinge of unease creep over her.

"What are you thinking about?" asked Danrique suddenly in his coarse and low voice.

She couldn't stop herself and ultimately decided to reveal the truth.

"Actually, I'm Dr.Felch's apprentice. When I was about three years old, he rescued me from the wilderness where I had been living amongst a pack of wolves.Since then, he had raised me up and imparted his medical knowledge to me.Aside from that, he also taught me how I should behave and carry myself as a decent human being.That's why he’s more than just a mentor to me, but also my father."

"Yes, I know that.You are indebted to him!" said Danrique as he shut his eyes and seemed to be able to sense her emotions.

She asked lightly, "Did he recognize me?"

"Did you hope for that to happen?” he countered as he opened his eyes and looked at her gently once more.

She gave the matter some thought before she nodded slightly and replied, "I hope not! I have nothing to my name currently, and I'm full of injuries.I'm afraid that he'll get worried and anxious about me if he suddenly recognizes me while I'm in this state.I'm sure he'll be overwhelmed with stress and guilt..."

At that, she trailed off for a moment before she added, "Although he can be a little fierce and domineering, not to mention extremely strict, he's actually extremely soft-hearted.If he knew that I've gotten injured, I'm afraid he'll put it all on himself and blame himself for allowing me to leave the mountains.”

Danrique couldn't help but feel moved upon hearing those words.

Immediately, his thoughts went to Isabella.

Much like how Francesca had just described, Isabella was also the sort who was extremely soft- hearted despite her fierce exterior.

Although she had always treated him strictly when raising him, she never ceased to worry about him behind his back.

Danrique decided to tell a white lie to accede to Francesca's wishes.

He asked, "You must have been very young when you left the mountains, weren't you? Now that you're much older, I'm sure you look significantly different from how you used to back then.

How can he recognize you that easily just by looking at the back of your head? Furthermore, he's quite advanced in his years so I'm sure his eyesight isn't that great.”

At that, Francesca chuckled lightly and exclaimed, "You're right! That makes sense.”

As she sighed in relief, he took in the scene and couldn't help but smile wryly as he stated, "When we get married, let's head back to the mountains together to pay him a visit!"

Without hesitation, she grunted in acknowledgment and nodded her head vigorously.

After a short pause, she countered, "Hang on..Who said I'll be marrying you?"

"How can you be so heartless and ungrateful? I've been treating you so kindly, and I've spent so much money on you all this time.

How could you not agree to marry me? If that's the case, then you have to return all the money I spent; retorted Danrique while pretending to be angry.He was already fully aware of what her weakness was.

She frowned in displeasure and scoffed as she replied, "Fine.l'll pay up if that's what you want.Name your price."

"By a conservative estimate, I'm guessing it should be more than three billion.I've had my lawyer keep track of all these expenses.Don't worry, I won't charge you more than you should pay me’ replied Danrique casually.

"What? What did you say? I didn't spend that much of your money in the first place! How did it get to three billion?" exclaimed Francesca in shock.

"Well..Just the medical bills alone already cost about one hundred million.If we account for the other expense, such as the one hundred million for Henry, and the fees for Helen's team..." explained Danrique.

She quickly cut in and asked, "Wait, what? He's not the greedy sort of person.Why would he suddenly want one hundred million from you?"

"Well, he wasn't willing to come over.That was why I had no choice but to use an exorbitantly huge amount of money to lure him over.Finally, he proposed that we donate the amount due for the medical treatment to one of the schools located on a mountain.I've already gotten Sean to work on that" replied Danrique calmly.

Chapter 2009

"All right, that's indeed his style. What about the remaining sum of money? she probed.

"I won't cover the amount due for the miscellaneous fees and items.Let's talk about the larger items instead. flew over to care for you, which then affected my business operations.That alone incurred a loss of about two billion.As for the remainder, that's my compensation for caring for you all this time" Danrique elaborated.

"You..." began Francesca, but she trailed off mid-sentence, speechless.

"It all makes sense logically and I have a case as well.I've had my lawyer record everything and list the items fully on a document.Since you don't want to marry me, you'll have to pay for all this.However, if you do agree, then all this expenditure can be chalked up as our daily household expenses and we can wipe the slate.Furthermore, you'll stand to receive half of whatever income I make in the future.You'll be so rich that you won't be able to put a number on it no matter how hard you try" he stated.

The more I listen to this, the more it seems like it would be a good choice to marry him.It really seems like a good deal.

As she mused over this issue, Francesca's heart and mind started to tilt in favor of Danrique.He astutely picked up that cue and decided to ply on it.

As such, he added, "That's not all.In the future, Dr.Felch can feel free to donate as much as he wants wherever he wishes.No restrictions at all!"

She couldn't help but smile broadly upon hearing that, and exclaimed, "Ah! I'm sure he'll be overjoyed if he knew about this! He's donated all the money he has received from providing medical services all this while."

"That's right! All in your name too!" stated Danrique in a gentle tone all of a sudden

"What?" she exclaimed as her eyes widened in shock.She was clearly unaware of that particular snippet of information.

"Sean specifically looked into the funds Dr.Felch listed.Based on the latter's instructions, he always made sure to make the donations in your name whenever he did that" explained Danrique.

He lightly added, "Sean found that matter to be rather curious, so he decided to enquire with the management staff of the funds.That was how he found out that the money had always been donated in your name the entire time.The staff also added that they had previously asked why your name was being used and pegged to these donations.The only reply they got was that he wanted to do some good for the world and in the name of his primary apprentice.Dr.Felch also mentioned that things rarely went according to plan for his apprentice, so he wanted to do what he could for the world in the hopes of accumulating good merit for his apprentice.Ultimately, he hoped that that kid's journey moving forward would be smooth sailing.”

No sooner had the words fallen from Danrique’s lips did the tears started streaming down Francesca"s face.She dove into his warm embrace and started bawling so hard that she was shaking. He lightly patted her on the back and tried to soothe her as gently as he could.

Although he was typically a man of few words, he realized he seemed to have spoken too much that day.

However, he knew that this was primarily because he had been touched by the depth of emotion and the strength of the relationship that Francesca and Dr.Felch shared.

Furthermore, he had recently been thinking of Isabella quite a fair bit.

Similarly, his aunt used to make plans for him and tried to pave the way forward for him wherever possible.

That was the reason why he could strive forward and achieve all that he had without facing too many challenges.

"Don't you see now? You get to enjoy an abundance of benefits and opportunities if you marry me.Not to mention, he acknowledges me as well? declared Danrique out of the blue in an attempt to change the subject and lighten the atmosphere.

"Really? Are you sure about that? You're always behaving like you don't care a shit about anything.I'm sure he doesn't like you at all?" remarked Francesca as she was surprised.

"I was extremely respectful to him.Not only did I personally escort him to the plane, but I also saw that dog he keeps with him.It has grown to be rather large now. don't think the name Cece suits it much anymore; he replied.That particular comment elicited a small chuckle from Francesca. Danrique deftly brought the topic of marriage around once more and asked, "That being said, are you agreeing to marry me? Remember that you'll have to pay up if you don't want to proceed with the marriage.On the other hand, if you do agree, you'll be rolling in cash..."

"All right then! I'll accept my fate.Let's get married” stated Francesca as she sighed deeply, almost as if that was something she found extremely frustrating.

"Listen to that tone.You don't seem very willing,"

commented Danrique as he playfully spanked her on her buttock.

At that, she suddenly thought of something and hurriedly asked, "Hang on...You haven't explained the matter between you and Hazel. What are all the rumors and gossip about? What about the photos of both of you behaving intimately together? Not to mention Moon River's Heart..."

"Ah, look at the time.Let's head to bed.We can talk about this tomorrow!" he exclaimed in reply in an obvious attempt to change the subject.

"You..."

She was about to burst into a tirade when the sound of knocking suddenly carried over from the door.

That was swiftly followed by an update from Sean, who said, "I have something to report, Mr.Lindberg.”

Danrique frowned and carefully rescinded his arm from where it had been casually wrapped around Francesca's neck.He rose to his feet and put on his clothes as he instructed, "Head to bed first.I'll go take a look"

She didn't probe much and only grunted in acknowledgment as she watched him stride toward the door.

As he walked, he suddenly stopped mid-stride and turned to look at her before he stated, "Remember this! You've already agreed!"

"What?" replied Francesca on reflex.

However, she swiftly pouted and added, "Go."

Chapter 2010

Only then did Danrique leave with relief.

After he closed the door, his face immediately darkened.

"Did Frank run away?"

"Mr.Lindberg, your predictions are so accurate, Sean exclaimed.

"I just received the news, and I was so shocked."

"It must be M Nation."

Danrique headed toward the study room as he spoke.

"Those people who are backing Pastor just won't give up.”

"Yes." Sean nodded.

"After the previous incident, Pastor's influence has been diminished. However, they're still using him.Now, they're even trying to get Frank to join them.It seems like they're up to something.”

In response, Danrique snorted contemptuously.

Sean lamented, "It's difficult to compete for the market in Epea and Adrune.Mr.Lindberg, should we..."

"We've already started. How could we retreat now? No matter what comes our way, we'll have to think of ways to overcome it? Danrique stated coldly.

With a nod, Sean responded, "All right. What should we do now?"

"Nothing.I'm sure Mr.President is more anxious about this than we are.Let us leave the matter to him.We're just businessmen, and we'll do what businessmen have to do."

Sean immediately understood what he meant.

"I get it.In the meantime, if Mr.President wants to meet you, I'll find an excuse to turn him down.” "Yes." Danrique nodded with satisfaction.

"How are things with the three great families?"

"Harrier and Kevin are behaving better recently,” Sean answered in a low voice.

"The Atkinson family is still eager to make a move.Perhaps, they think that there's an opportunity they can take advantage of since they succeeded in making a scandal about you last time" Danrique narrowed his eyes, a dangerous glint flashing across them.

"Gerard is so impenitent.Let them be.The more mistakes they make, the better”

"Okay.They might become more reckless if we don't control them, though.Will that affect you and Ms.Felch?"

Danrique was unbothered.

"Francesca is not an unreasonable woman.Besides, I didn't do anything, anyway.If we want to expose the three families’ evil intentions, we have to encourage them to make mistakes.” "Understood."

"We have to visit M Nation soon.The mess there needs to be cleaned up.”

"All right.I'll arrange it right away."

After that, Danrique stayed in the study room to do some more work before returning to his room at one in the morning.

Francesca had already fallen asleep.lt seemed that she was feeling a bit embarrassed about her newly-shaved head as she hid under the blanket, looking like a kitten.

Seeing how adorable she was, Danrique was a bit tempted.

However, at the thought that she was still heavily injured, he decided to sleep on the sofa for fear of hurting her wounds.

He used to be very picky about the location and environment when he slept, but after keeping watch at the hospital for a while, he slowly got used to it.

Moreover, he was always exhausted, so he would sleep soundly even on the sofa

Soon, Danrique drifted off.

Francesca woke up in the middle of the night.

Groggily, she reached for the pillow beside her, only to find that Danrique was not around. Nevertheless, the sight of Danrique sleeping on the sofa moved her and wiped away the slight disappointment she just felt. He used to be an arrogant man who would feel violated if someone else touched his bed.

Yet, he gave up his bed for her and even slept on the sofa to avoid disturbing her.

Why is he such an idiot? Feeling touched, Francesca lifted the blanket off her and struggled out of bed.She walked toward the sofa slowly with the intention of accompanying him, but after taking a few steps, her body couldn't take it anymore.

Her knees went weak, and her body slumped forward.

Just in time, a strong and muscular arm caught her.

"What are you trying to do in the middle of the night?"

Danrique carried her and placed her on the bed gently.

In a swift motion, he leaned over her with his arms beside her shoulders.

Even so, he made sure not to keep them too close to her so he wouldn't hurt her.

His handsome face was right in front of her eyes.