Ch. 51..60

Chapter 51

Audrey froze for a moment, her eyes trembling slightly.

But Miles was already at the edge of breaking down. As soon as he finished speaking, he buried his head in his knees, his thin frame curled in on itself as he cried silently.

A pang of sympathy shot through Audrey's chest. 'So this is the woman I've never met... my mother,' she thought, feeling a bittersweet ache settle deep within her.

Audrey hesitated, then reached out slowly, touching Miles's back gently. "It's okay. It'll be okay," she whispered.

Medicine was so advanced, and there still would be a chance.

But her words only seemed to undo Miles further. Tears streamed down his face, releasing all the helplessness and bitterness he'd been holding back.

On the third floor of the hospital's inpatient wing, Audrey and Miles rushed toward his father, Peter. He was clutching a doctor's hand, begging desperately.

Peter was desperate, clutching the doctor's arm with both hands, his voice breaking. "Doctor, please, you have to do something. My wife... she needs more time. She hasn't even lived to see her kids grow up." "Dad..." Miles' voice cracked as he rushed forward, grabbing Peter's trembling arm.

The doctor, visibly uncomfortable, gently pried Peter's grip loose but couldn't hide the pity in his eyes. "Mr. Harper, I'm really sorry, but there's nothing more we can do here. The best thing you can do is bring her home and let her rest peacefully." When Peter and Miles heard this, their eyes revealed a trace of pain simultaneously.

Peter stared at the doctor hopelessly, his voice breaking as he pleaded, "There has to be something, please. She's only in her forties; she hasn't even had the chance to enjoy life."

The doctor's gaze softened with a trace of pity, but he held firm. "Mr. Harper, as hard as it is to hear, any surgery at this point would only cause her more suffering. Taking her home might let her spend her last days in peace."

"No, no." Peter's voice faded as his body sagged, collapsing under the weight of despair. If Miles hadn't been holding him, he would have fallen.

'I just want to save my wife. Why does it have to be so impossible?' Peter thought bitterly.

After a moment's hesitation, the doctor continued, "If you're truly unwilling to give up, there's another option. You could try St. Johnson Hospital in Riverdale. Dr. Grant, the head there, is one of the best specialists in this field." Peter and Miles looked up, their expressions a mixture of fear and hope.

"But let me warn you," the doctor said cautiously, "St. Johnson is a private hospital, and the costs are four times higher than ours. And Mr. Fletcher is very well-known; even an average appointment could take months to schedule. In your situation, you may not be able to see him at all."

"St. Johnson Hospital?" Peter's eyes lit up with a glimmer of hope. "Can Mr. Fletcher actually cure this kind of condition?"

"I can't promise a cure, but Dr. Grant is the best oncologist in the country. If anyone can give you a shot, it's him," the doctor replied.

"Alright. We'll transfer her. Right now," Peter said without a second thought.

Fortunately, the paperwork for their release had already been prepared, as the hospital had planned for them to be discharged today. So everything went quickly.

Before they were discharged, Audrey overheard a conversation between Peter and Miles in the break room.

"Dad, we're out of money, aren't we?" Miles asked quietly.

"Don't worry about that. Even if I have to sell everything, I'm not giving up your mom," Peter replied firmly.

Then Peter sighed and looked at Miles with tired eyes. "Have you been skipping school? No matter what happens, you still need to focus on your studies. Once we settle your mom's transfer, you'll go back to class and stay on track." Miles lowered his head, letting a single tear slip onto the polished floor. "I will," he said.

Miles didn't have the heart to tell his father that he'd gone to find Eliza. Neither Peter nor Jessica could handle that kind of blow right now.

Audrey turned away slightly, hiding the storm of emotions in her eyes.

Just then, Peter emerged from the break room, holding a cup of hot water. He dabbed Jessica's face with a cloth, then helped Miles lift her onto a wheelchair.

Miles went back to grab the bags of personal belongings from the hospital room.

Peter looked like a ghost of his former self, his gaunt frame straining under the weight of the wheelchair.

Noticing his struggle, Audrey moved forward to help. Surprised, Peter glanced up at her, a flicker of confusion crossing his face. "Are you...?"

'Why is she so familiar?' Peter wondered.

Audrey froze, her face tensing as she hesitated. 'Should I tell them who I am?'

 

 

Chapter 52

As Audrey hesitated, Miles, who was a step behind, spoke up. "Dad, she's the one who brought me to the hospital and helped chase off that scammer." Peter's expression softened, and a grateful smile crossed his face. He said, "Oh, I see. Thank you. You're not only beautiful but also kind-hearted. Truly a good person." "No worries," Audrey murmured, her head lowered to hide the awkward look on her face.

They continued walking toward the hospital entrance, with Audrey falling a step behind. Watching the family of three ahead, she felt a strange warmth stirring in her heart.

Peter cared so deeply for Jessica, and Miles was a respectful, filial son. This didn't seem like the family Eliza had described, the kind that exploited their daughter and favored sons over daughters.

Lost in thought, Audrey stepped forward and said to Peter, "I can come with you if you'd like. I'm pretty familiar with St. Johnson Hospital."

Hearing this, Peter hesitated, a bit embarrassed. "Oh, no, no, that would be too much trouble. You've already helped us so much." "It's really no trouble, sir. Let's get you settled first." Audrey insisted.

Just then, a taxi pulled up, and Audrey helped lift the wheelchair into the car. An hour later, they arrived at St. Johnson Hospital. Peter headed straight to the information desk to speak with a nurse. "Hello, could you tell me if Dr. Grant is in today?"

A young nurse was sitting behind the counter, distracted by her phone. Without looking up, she replied lazily, "Dr. Grant's not in today."

Then the nurse glanced at Peter and took in the sight of Miles and the rest of them with their bags. A glint of disdain flashed in her eyes.

'Ugh, another one of those patients, dragging along all their stuff and thinking they can just waltz in and see Dr. Grant. Clueless,' the nurse thought.

Peter's face fell, disappointment evident. He leaned forward, placing his hands on the counter. "Miss, could we still arrange an admission? Dr. Grant will be in tomorrow, right?"

"No rooms available!" the nurse replied curtly.

'No available rooms?' Peter thought. Then he looked at her, voice full of pleading. "Can't you at least call Mr. Fletcher? Just let him know we have a critical patient needing his help." Hearing this, the nurse let out a laugh, as if she'd heard the most absurd thing ever.

The nurse didn't even try to hide her contempt and replied with a smirk, "Sorry, I can't do that. Mr. Fletcher doesn't see just anyone."

Peter looked pained, saying, "But we're desperate."

"Everyone's desperate to see Mr. Fletcher. And everything goes by the book. Start with registration. If you're lucky, you'll get in within six months!" the nurse shot back, her voice laced with sarcasm. Peter's mouth opened in frustration, but he couldn't find the words.

Miles's temper flared, and he snapped, "Do you even hear yourself? Sick people can't wait that long!"

The nurse wasn't fazed, her voice as icy as before. "Oh, tough guy, huh? If you're so eager, go pull some strings. Why waste your breath on a nurse?"

"You!" Miles clenched his fists, ready to lash out.

"Don't." Audrey stepped in, stopping him, and faced the nurse herself. "As I understand it, St. Johnson has a policy for critical cases, a fast-track process for immediate admissions."

The nurse looked Audrey up and down, a hint of annoyance replaced by caution briefly. But seeing Audrey's refined appearance sparked a touch of jealousy.

'Probably all show. If she has real money, she won't be wasting her time here,' the nurse thought. Then she scoffed, her voice even more arrogant. "Fast-tracking is only for VIPs. Not everyone qualifies, especially not, well, people like you." With a sneer, the nurse added under her breath, barely loud enough to hear, "Might as well go home and wait for the end."

 

 

Chapter 53

Peter, usually so mild-mannered, flushed with anger.

Miles, on the other hand, completely lost it, rolling up his sleeves and yelling, "You cursed my mom! Let's see if you're still laughing when I'm done with you!" "Stop, Miles." Jessica, lying in the wheelchair, had woken up and was gesturing for him to come over.

Hearing Jessica's voice, Miles snapped out of his rage immediately, abandoning his argument with the nurse as he rushed back to Jessica's side.

"Mom! You're awake, how are you feeling?" Miles asked anxiously.

Peter joined him, worry etched on his face. "Honey!"

Jessica's gaze drifted over Peter, Miles, and around as if searching for someone else. But a hint of disappointment flickered in her eyes when she found no one.

Jessica forced herself to push past the pain, holding onto Miles' hand tightly. She spoke weakly. "Miles, don't get physical over this, let's go home instead. We don't need the treatment!"

Jessica hadn't even finished speaking when she started coughing violently, a bright streak of blood splattering onto Miles' shirt.

"Mom!" Miles choked out in anguish, dropping to his knees and pulling her close, holding her trembling body.

Peter wrapped his arms around both of them, drawing the three of them into a tight embrace, a quiet sense of despair settling over them.

The nurse let out a satisfied chuckle, sneering as she gestured for them to leave. "So, how much longer are you going to sit here? If you can't afford treatment, take it outside; you've already dirtied the floor we just cleaned. If you don't leave now, I'll call security." "Shut your mouth!" Audrey turned and glared at the nurse, her eyes icy and razor-sharp. "Is this what passes for compassion around here?"

The nurse flinched, an unexpected wave of fear creeping over her.

Pointing a finger at the nurse, Audrey's voice was fierce. "One more word out of you, and I swear, I'll make you regret it!"

With that, Audrey took out her phone and dialed a number she'd saved earlier. As soon as the line connected, she said quickly, "Mr. Arnold, this is Audrey Rhodes."

Hearing Audrey mention the vice president's name, the nurse froze, her hand pausing over the phone. She muttered, 'This woman actually knows our vice president?' Then the color drained from the nurse's face.

Without sparing her a glance, Audrey spoke into the phone. "Mr. Arnold, I'm at St. Johnson Hospital on the first floor. There's a patient with a critical tumor here who urgently needs surgery. I was hoping you could help expedite it." "Sorry, Ms. Rhodes, but that's not something I can do." Norman cut her off coldly, not giving her a chance to finish.

Audrey's heart sank as she noted the sudden shift in tone. Norman used to call her Audrey and treat her warmly, like family. Now, he was addressing her as Ms. Rhodes, distant and dismissive.

It was clear Norman wanted to make a point, likely on behalf of Dominic, who was obviously still bitter.

Audrey's expression darkened, and she opened her mouth to try again, but the line cut off abruptly. She couldn't believe he'd turned her down so outright.

With no other choice, Audrey dialed a different number saved under "X." But to her frustration, it wouldn't connect.

At that moment, Audrey frowned, looking down as she prepared to send a message. Suddenly, a familiar cool voice echoed nearby. "What's going on here?"

Seeing Dominic appear, Audrey frowned instinctively. 'How could this be such a coincidence? I call his uncle, and here he comes, like clockwork,' she thought.

The nurse, recognizing Dominic, immediately seized her chance to speak up, twisting the story as she saw fit. "Mr. Hayes, this family's been causing trouble here all morning. They refuse to leave unless they can see Dr. Grant. "All I did was remind them that the hospital has procedures, and the kid there nearly attacked me!"

Miles infuriated and shot back, "That's a lie! That's you, the one who cursed my mom!"

"Keep your voice down," Dominic said coolly, glancing at Miles briefly. "This is a hospital. Show some respect."

Miles clenched his teeth, feeling humiliated. 'Dominic's gaze holds nothing but disdain. He doesn't care about our lives at all.'

Jessica tugged on Miles's hand from behind, her strength fading fast. She wanted to tell him to let it go, to just go home, but the words wouldn't come.

Watching the scene unfold, Audrey felt as though her heart had taken a heavy blow.

Dominic seemed unfazed by it all, his hand in his pocket casually as he tilted his head toward Audrey. "Audrey, I heard you just called my uncle?"

 

Chapter 54

Audrey frowned. The next second, she heard Dominic continue, "Why make it so difficult? All you have to do is agree, and I'll make sure they have the best room and doctor available right away." "And what do you want from me in return?" Audrey asked coldly.

Dominic was a businessman who never did anything without a price. There was no way he'd help her for nothing.

"Nothing you need to do, just divorce him, and I'll give you anything you want," Dominic replied and looked at Audrey, confident she'd agree.

'She's only said those things before because she's still mad. That was days ago; by now, she should've cooled off. I give her an out, and she's smart enough to know how to take it,' Dominic thought. Audrey's expression faltered, her gaze turning colder by the second. She couldn't stop herself from snapping, "Dominic, you're out of your mind!"

Dominic's brows lifted in amusement. Unhurriedly, he said, "The choice is yours; you don't have to agree. But it looks like those people behind you don't have much time, Audrey. This is a life we're talking about." "You know it's a life at stake, and you're still using it to threaten me?" Audrey's voice shook with anger. "Dominic, you make me sick."

Looking at Dominic, Audrey realized she'd never truly known him. The man she remembered, who used to follow her around and blush whenever he spoke to her, was gone. What she saw now was twisted and revolting. "Cough, cough..." Jessica's painful cough echoed again.

Miles and Peter held her tightly, calling her name, but Jessica didn't respond.

When Audrey saw this, her fury wavered. She had no emotional connection with the Harpers, but she couldn't just stand by and watch her biological mother die in front of her.

'Maybe I should just agree with Dominic for now?' Audrey thought.

Just as Audrey was debating whether to play along, her phone rang suddenly. Seeing the caller ID, her tense expression softened immediately.

Right in front of Dominic, Audrey answered the call and greeted sweetly, "Hey, babe."

Dominic's face darkened in an instant. Meanwhile, on the other end, Alistair couldn't help but smile, his voice warm. "Almost done with work? I'm downstairs at your office." "I'm at St. Johnson Hospital right now," Audrey replied.

"The hospital?" Alistair's tone shifted, clearly worried. "What happened? Are you alright? I'll be right there."

Even over the phone, the care and concern in Alistair's voice soothed Audrey's frustration and anxiety.

"It's not me; it's a friend's family member. They're very sick, and the hospital won't take them in. It's a mess," Audrey murmured.

Audrey wasn't even sure why she was sharing so much with him, and it just came naturally.

"St. Johnson Hospital? Don't worry, I actually know someone there. I'll see what I can arrange," Alistair said softly.

"Alright, I'll wait to hear from you," Audrey replied.

Audrey hadn't lowered her voice on the call, so Dominic caught every word. He let out a derisive snort. "Audrey, do you really think your husband can solve this for you?"

Audrey rolled her eyes, replying coolly, "Why not give it a try? Maybe he does know someone. I trust him."

The way Audrey talked about Alistair, so full of faith and loyalty, made Dominic even more irritated.

'That trust, that dependence, those things used to belong to me. How can she give that to another man so easily?' Dominic muttered.

Noticing Dominic's clear annoyance, Audrey felt a surge of satisfaction.

Just as a smile crept onto Audrey's face, a mocking voice sounded from behind her. "Ms. Rhodes! As long as I'm the vice president here, it won't matter who your husband knows. I'm not approving this admission!"

 

Chapter 55

Just then. Norman strolled over.

Audrey glared at him, her eyes blazing with anger. "You're the vice president of a hospital, and you're openly refusing to admit a patient just to back up your nephew! People like you don't deserve to be doctors!"

Norman chuckled coldly and retorted. "The hospital has limited resources. I can't possibly care for every patient"

Audrey was at a loss for words. She was furious, practically ready to slap him across the face.

Miles and Peter heard the arrogant remark, their faces filled with despair and pain, but they felt powerless. In a private hospital like this, their lives seemed to mean nothing

Norman wore a patronizing sinile, saying, "Ms. Rhodes, we don't have any deep-seated grudges. Why make a fuss with Dominic over a momentary quarrel?" Audrey sneered, not wanting to engage

It was no wonder everyone thought Audrey's quick marriage was just a tantrum. Ultimately, it was her fault for chasing after Dominic like a lovesick puppy back then.

Norman, oblivious to the tension, continued speaking. "Dominic just made the same mistake every man makes. He's already promised to marry you, and what happened before doesn't have to affect your life together. Why bother holding a grudger Norman's tone suggested that Dominic's willingness to marry her was a monumental sacrifice.

Then Norman added. "I've heard about the issues with the Rhodes family. You probably won't last long at the Rhodes Enterprises, right?

"With your current situation, you'll never find someone better than Dominic. He doesn't even mind that you were married before, and you Hearing this, Audrey clenched her fists

"That's enough! Your family is disgraceful!" a voice suddenly interjected.

"Who's speaking" Audrey thought and turned to see Prier, who had been quiet for so long, glaring at Norman fiercely.

Instantly, the atmosphere shifted into a brief silence.

Peter took a deep breath, his voice seething with anger. "Your nephew was unfaithful before marriage and is now using a life to blackmail someone. You're so shameless, and thank goodness she didn't marry into your family. She would've regrested it for sure!" Miles chimed in with his jibe. "Exactly! She's young, beautiful, and kind-hearted. Who in their right mind would jump into your family's fire pic?"

Norman's face darkened. He muttered, 'How dare these poor losers look down on my nephew!!

Fuming. Norman clenched his fists and snapped, "Who do you think you are to speak here! Don't forget that you're the ones who need something from incl

Peter took a deep breath and stood his ground. "So what if we do? We'll just go somewhere else for treatment!!

With that, Peter turned to Audrey, offering her a smile tinged with regret. "Ms. Rhodes, you've already helped us so much! We're not related, and you don't have to put yourself through this for us!

"I don't believe there's only one hospital in Riverdale continued.

e that ca

can treat this. If St. Johnson Hot

Hospital can't, we'll go to Willowdale. It's no big deal!" Peter

Miles nodded in agreement, turning to push Jessica's wheelchair.

Norman's face was ashen. It had been a long time since anyone had openly disrespected him like this.

As the vice president of the best private hospital in Riverdale, Norman was usually surrounded by sycophants, even those in power treated him with respect

Now, these pathetic peasants were openly challenging him! How could he tolerate th

Then Norman pointed an accusatory finger at Peter and Miles, his voice dripping with menace. "I'll say this clearly without St. Johnson, you can just wait to die out there!" 5:14 PM

"Shut up!" a commanding t

e voice boomed from behind the crowd.

As soon as Norman heard that voice, his expression shifted dramatically,

 

 

Chapter 56

Norman turned around hastily, only to see a doctor with graying hair and glasses striding over with authority, followed by several other doctors and department heads in white coats. Norman looked flustered as he spoke up. "Mr. Fletcher, what brings you here in person?"

Norman continued, his tone shaky, "Mr. Fletcher, please don't be upset! It's just a minor issue!"

Grant's gaze turned icy as he scolded, "Be quiet. There's no such thing as a 'minor issue' when it comes to a patient's life. After all your years as a doctor, do I really need to teach you that?"

The smile on Norman's face froze instantly. He tried to say something else, but Grant ignored him and walked straight over to Jessica, examining her condition carefully.

A moment later, Grant's expression grew more serious. He turned to the doctors behind him and commanded. "It's likely late-stage aneurysm with a rupture. Get her into the OR immediately and prepare for surgery." "Yes, Doctor," the other doctors responded quickly. Then they moved to push Jessica's wheelchair and took her into surgery.

Miles and Peter thanked him, expressing their gratitude over and over.

"It's nothing, and no need to thank me." Grant waved them off, then turned to Audrey with a respectful expression, saying, "This was a major oversight on our hospital's part.

"Thankfully, no irreversible harm was done. Otherwise, I don't know how I'd explain this to your husband!"

What? The director was here because of Audrey's husband? The Harpers and Dominic were all in shock.

'Who exactly is Audrey's husband to command such respect, even fear from the head of St. Johnson Hospital?' Dominic thought.

Not only was everyone else bewildered, but Audrey herself was puzzled by Grant's deference toward Alistair.

'Is he...actually afraid of him?' Audrey wondered, though she kept her face neutral and politely asked, "I appreciate your help, Mr. Fletcher. Could you tell me the success rate of this surgery?" Grant replied, "The patient's condition is quite serious, but I'll be performing the surgery myself. I'll do everything I can to save her."

Hearing this, the Harpers felt a wave of relief wash over them.

Peter's eyes welled up with tears as he said passionately, "Mr. Fletcher, you're an expert in this field. We trust you completely!"

"Expert is too kind a word. I'll certainly try my best. It's just..." Grant trailed off, his brows furrowing as though something troubled him.

Peter's heart sank, and he thought to himself that no matter what Dr. Grant asked for, he would agree.

But Grant turned to Norman instead and said, "This surgery is highly complex. With only me operating, the success rate is probably around fifty percent. I need an assistant."

As if anticipating what Grant would say, Norman adopted a weary expression immediately, rubbing his shoulder and saying weakly, "Mr. Fletcher, it's not that I don't want to help with the surgery.

"I just finished an operation myself, so even if I wanted to assist, I simply don't have the strength. Besides, with a surgery this risky, if anything were to go wrong, I wouldn't be able to bear the responsibility!" Hearing that, everyone fell silent, exasperated.

When Norman had been intimidating Audrey earlier, he'd looked anything but exhausted. He clearly just wanted to abuse his authority for personal revenge.

Peter, unwilling to see Jessica suffer further, finally lowered his head and pleaded humbly, "Mr. Arnold, we were wrong to offend you before. Please, help us."

Norman snorted disdainfully and sneered. "Begging won't do any good. My hands are so tired they're shaking. One slip in the operating room..."

Peter caught the threat in his tone, and his face turned pale.

Then Norman looked even more pleased with himself. The only reason he dared to act this way in the hospital was his surgical skills. Other than Grant, no one else at St. Johnson could perform this surgery. Norman smirked at Audrey, saying, "Ms. Rhodes, maybe you should reconsider Dominic's offer. If you agree, I'm willing to push through the fatigue for family."

"I'll handle the surgery myself. No need for Mr. Arnold's help." A calm male voice interrupted Norman's arrogant ultimatum.

Everyone turned toward the sound.

The man who had spoken was strikingly handsome, wearing a crisp white shirt with cufflinks glinting at his wrists and silver-rimmed glasses resting on his nose. His every movement exuded mature confidence and charm. Audrey's eyes lit up at the sight of him, and she hurried over. "You're here?"

The man's expression softened with a fond smile as he reached out to ruffle Audrey's hair, his gaze locked on hers. "You sent me a message. How could I not come?"

It had been years since Audrey had last reached out to him. The moment he saw her message, he'd dropped everything and rushed over as fast as he could. And he'd arrived just in time to hear Norman's self-important monologue. Watching the easy intimacy between Audrey and the man, Dominic felt a strange pang of jealousy, mixed with anger. He demanded coldly, "Audrey, who is he?"

'Who's this guy? Why does he seem so close to Audrey? We've been together for three years, and I have never heard of him. Is her husband?' Dominic wondered. Jealousy surged through Dominic, making his expression darker.

Audrey simply rolled her eyes, not bothering to respond.

But Grant walked over, looking thrilled as he shook the man's hand without hesitation, his eyes bright with admiration. "Eric? Are you the esteemed Dr. Apple?"

Eric Apple? The name sent a shock through Norman, who had initially dismissed the young man. This unassuming newcomer was actually the renowned Dr. Apple!

 

 

Chapter 57

Eric looked at Grant, a polite yet distant smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. He nodded slightly and said, "That's me."

When Dominic and Norman heard him admit it, their faces darkened. Even though Dominic didn't follow the medical field closely, he'd still heard about this renowned figure, Dr. Apple.

It was said that at just eighteen, Eric had published a groundbreaking research paper that solved one of the greatest challenges in cardiovascular disease in the country. Since then, he'd saved countless lives, reputed as the highest authority in the field. How on earth had Audrey managed to bring in someone like him? With Eric's arrival, everyone present found their thoughts wandering in different directions.

But Grant didn't care what anyone else thought. He looked at Eric with admiration simply, saying, "With you here, Dr. Apple, this surgery's success rate will undoubtedly be one hundred percent!"

Eric gave a polite nod, smiling slightly without responding.

Finally, Norman couldn't hold back any longer and blurted out loudly, "That's impossible! This kid's got to be a fake! There's no way the renowned Dr. Apple could be so young!"

'And if Audrey really knows such an influential person, why would she have gone through Grant at all? If she actually knows Eric, wouldn't she have put Jessica in a VIP room from the start?' Norman thought.

As soon as he looked at Norman, Grant's previously cordial expression grew dark again. "Stop spouting nonsense," he snapped, "and who'd dare impersonate Dr. Apple? His kind of surgical expertise isn't something just anyone can fake."

Grant continued, "And I once saw Dr. Apple from a distance at a medical conference. I may not have had the chance to introduce myself then, but I'd never mistake him."

Norman froze, clenching his teeth. This young man, plain in appearance, was actually Eric, a leader in cardiovascular surgery.

Grant ignored Norman and turned to Eric with a suggestion quickly. "Dr. Apple, if you're willing, would you consider letting me assist you on this surgery?"

Knowing how much Audrey cared about the team in the operating room, Eric didn't hesitate. "Sure, Dr. Fletcher. Time's running short. Let's start right away. I'll need a sterile surgical gown."

"Of course, Dr. Apple," Grant replied, stepping aside to let Eric take the lead.

Just as they were about to leave, Norman called out, "Wait!"

"What now?" Audrey snapped, moving in front of him to block his way, determined to keep him from disrupting the surgery.

But Norman wasn't looking at her. Stretching his neck, he addressed Eric with eagerness, saying, "Dr. Apple, I'd be happy to assist you as well. My medical expertise is among the best at St. Johnson, and with my help, the two of you will have an easier time!" Everyone froze for a second. Seriously? The audacity!

Norman didn't care about anyone's opinion. He thought, 'The chance to work alongside the legendary Dr. Apple on a surgery like this isn't an opportunity to let slip.

'If I can assist Dr. Apple in this operation, my own reputation in the medical world will soar!'

"Shameless!" Before Eric could respond, Grant barked at Norman. "Don't think I don't see what you're trying to do. You're not qualified to be part of this surgery!"

Norman, unwilling to back down, looked defiant. "Mr. Fletcher, you know my skill level. Why wouldn't I be qualified?"

Grant's response was cold. "You've got three days to hand over your duties. If you don't resign by then, I'll fire you."

Norman was stunned, his face rigid with disbelief. "Mr. Fletcher, I've worked here for over twenty years. Maybe I haven't given my life to this place, but I've done my job. How can you just fire me?"

"With your lack of ethics and blatant disregard for patient welfare?" Grant said, his tone severe. "People like you aren't fit to call themselves doctors. St. Johnson can't afford to keep someone like you on board."

Originally, Grant had planned to handle Norman's behavior after the surgery. But seeing how brazenly shameless he was, hoping to profit off of someone else's success, Grant had had enough.

Grant thought, 'Someone who clearly doesn't care about the patient's life or death. How can I be trusted to let him enter the operating room?

'And that nurse from earlier who'd shown such contempt toward the patient's family. Let's deal with it all at once.'

Then Grant's gaze swept toward the nurse cowering in the back of the crowd coldly. "And you," he continued in a firm voice, "as a nurse, your duty is to care for your patients and their families, not treat them with disdain. If that's how you work, we can't afford to keep you either. Find somewhere else."

Grant's tone left no room for argument, and both Norman and the nurse began to panic. Especially Norman. His position as vice president at St. Johnson brought him ample perks.

The money Norman made from patient kickbacks alone could buy him a new house every year. If he lost this job, he'd have nowhere to go.

Norman might've been a self-serving man, but he could also be flexible. Quickly, he softened, saying in a subdued tone, "Mr. Fletcher, I may have acted out of line earlier. I promise there won't be a next time. I won't be involved in this surgery, just give me another chance." "You're apologizing to the wrong person," Grant replied coolly. "Apologize to them."

 

 

Chapter 58

Grant, pointing at Audrey and the Harpers, did not want to waste any more time and led Eric into the operating room.

Everything was ready, and the surgery could start at any moment.

Looking at the red light outside the operating room, Peter crossed himself over his chest and prayed silently.

Meanwhile, the pale-faced nurse pushed through the crowd and fell to her knees in front of Audrey. Her face, once filled with arrogance, now showed no trace of it.

She wept bitterly, even trying to embrace Audrey's leg. "Ms. Rhodes, I'm sorry, I was terribly wrong. It's all my fault for not recognizing you earlier. Please forgive me!" Audrey felt no sympathy for such people.

Without Alistair and Eric, her nominal mother might have missed the best treatment time due to the snobby nurse. Compared to a human life, the nurse losing her job was nothing. As Audrey maintained a poker face in silence, the nurse gritted her teeth and started slapping herself.

"My dirty mouth... I'm sorry. I'm begging you! Please forgive you." She slapped herself a few times, then crawled on her knees to Audrey and the Harpers.

The Harpers both chose to turn their backs, refusing to spare her a glance.

The nurse covered her face with her hands, crying even more desperately, "Ms. Rhodes, I have elderly parents and young children at home..."

"Stop playing the victim with me. It won't work," Audrey said coldly.

All healthy and sane-minded, the nurse could certainly find new jobs even if she left St. Johnson Hospital. Without a lesson, she would never repent truly. Realizing there was no chance for her, the nurse could only wipe away her tears and slink off.

After the nurse left, Audrey gave Norman a meaningful look.

Norman's lips stiffened, unable to bring himself to apologize. He furrowed his brows, snapping, "What are you looking at? You wouldn't expect me to apologize to you, would you?

"Be sensible and tell Mr. Fletcher you will forgive me. That's the only way for you to stay with Dominic in the future. If I lose my job, you'll never have another chance to set foot in the Hayes family, even if you cry your heart out in front of Dominic!" Audrey was left speechless, complaining inwardly, 'I may be love-struck, but not stupid! Who would even care about that trash at this point?'

She gave a cold, mocking smile and said sarcastically, "Since Mr. Arnold is so confident, good luck to you!"

Norman was stunned at her words, quite surprised that the timid Audrey from his memory was monumentally different now.

Dominic naturally couldn't stand Norman being ridiculed, and he didn't like Audrey's petty attitude toward his family. He immediately chimed in coldly, "Audrey, don't go too far. He is my uncle."

Hearing his self-righteous tone, Audrey was angered into laughter.

She let out a cold humph and raised her eyes slightly, her gaze disdainful and dismissive. "So what? You wouldn't be trying to threaten me with not marrying me, would you?"

Dominic was momentarily stunned, looking into her cold eyes. His heart began to race.

Audrey made it clear she no longer cared about him.

Before he could speak again, Audrey added, "Dominic, if you don't want me to expose the sordid things you've done, you'd better leave with your uncle right now!" She hated seeing them anymore. Every single one of this family disgusted her. Dominic still was a bit defiant, defending, "What sordid things have I-"

"Are you sure you want me to spill it here?" Audrey's lips curled coldly, her composed gaze filled with disdain.

Dominic clenched his teeth. He had indeed done something wrong to Audrey that couldn't be openly discussed in public. Otherwise, his previous statement about Audrey throwing a tantrum and canceling the wedding would have been unfounded. He bit his teeth in frustration and turned to Norman. "Uncle, let's go. I'll have Dad figure it out for your work."

There was no other choice. Before leaving, Norman couldn't resist giving Audrey a vicious glare, threatening, "Audrey, let's wait and see. When you and Dominic reconcile, I won't let you off the hook!"

"Thanks for the reminder, but you might never get that chance!" Audrey raised an eyebrow nonchalantly, her eyes full of disdain and sarcasm.

With her ruthless statement, Dominic's eyes suddenly darkened. 'Was she really not planning to forgive me just because of that triviality? Great! Don't come crawling back to beg for a reunion later!' he cursed inwardly.

 

 

Chapter 59

Despite his reluctance, Dominic didn't stay to make himself humiliated further.

Norman dared not to be arrogant anymore either and sneaked away.

With the two annoying figures gone, Audrey suddenly felt the air around her freshen up.

Just then, a nurse came to get Peter to pay the medical bills.

After he was led away, only Miles and Audrey were left outside the operating room. They looked at each other in silence.

Audrey had many things she wanted to say to Miles, but she didn't know where to start.

Meanwhile, Miles stared at her with a mix of admiration and envy. Inheriting his father's nature, he was awkward with words and often suffered because of it.

Seeing how Audrey silenced those bad people just now, he genuinely admired her. The way she stood up to them reminded him of how his mother would rebuke nosy relatives. 'If only I could be that fierce, my mother wouldn't be bullied,' he murmured inwardly. Noticing his gaze, Audrey turned to him.

Miles immediately averted his gaze, speaking softly but sincerely. "Thank you for today."

"Don't worry about it," Audrey lowered her eyes slightly, probing subtly. "Are you the only child in your family?"

"I have an elder brother and... an elder sister."

"Then why didn't I seem them in the hospital?"

"My brother has mobility issues, and my sister..." Miles paused for a moment, a flash of hatred in his eyes as he said gravely, "I'd rather she wasn't in our family at all!"

Audrey's expression grew slightly serious. 'So he really hates his sister? In that case, it might be better for me to hold off on revealing my identity for now,' she thought to herself.

During the four-hour surgery, Audrey waited outside the operating room with the Harpers.

When the green light above lit up, the Harpers stepped forward instantly.

The first person to emerge was Grant. The surgery took too long, and even Grant nearly couldn't hold on, his face slightly pale and his forehead covered in sweat.

"Grant, how is my wife?" Peter asked urgently.

Grant took a breath. Knowing what they were concerned about, he slowly said, "The surgery was successful. The patient will be transferred to a regular ward for observation for two days. Once her condition stabilizes, she can be discharged." Upon hearing this, Peter and Miles both felt relieved, bowing deeply in gratitude to Grant.

Grant gently supported Peter's arm, saying softly, "You don't need to thank me. You should thank Mr. Apple. Without him, this surgery wouldn't have been possible."

The surgery was far more perilous than Grant had initially estimated. Had it not been for Eric's calm and decisive intervention, the operation wouldn't have gone so smoothly.

The Harpers were so elated that they only now remembered to thank Eric.

Eric had just emerged from the operating room.

Although his complexion seemed a bit better than Grant's, his clothes were soaked through with sweat, and his bangs clung damply to his forehead, giving the appearance of someone just pulled out of the water.

Audrey fished out a tissue from her bag and handed it to him, saying softly, "You've had a tough battle."

"I have. Luckily, I didn't let you down," Eric said, wiping the sweat with the tissue and smiling at Audrey.

Seeing the scene, Grant's expression stiffened slightly. 'Why did the atmosphere between the two seem so strange? Would he steal Audrey from Mr. Hayes?'

As he was guessing, the Harpers quickly walked over to break the ambiguous atmosphere between the two.

"Mr. Apple, thank you so much. You are our family's savior!" Peter reached out to shake Eric's hand, but upon seeing his distinct fingers, he silently withdrew his hand. His hands were covered in thick calluses, better not to scratch his benefactor's hands...

In the next moment, Peter's half-withdrawn hand was clasped by Eric. "Mr. Harper, I'm flattered. Your wife has been very well taken care of during her illness, and the successful surgery is also thanks to your efforts!"

"Thank you, thank you..." Peter, who had long been looked down upon, gradually grew red-eyed.

Even Miles's eyes turned red, and he turned his head to rub them.

After exchanging a few words with Eric, Peter turned and took out his Uber business card from his pocket, handing it to Audrey.

He smiled with a blend of kindness and sincerity, saying earnestly, "Ms. Rhodes, you are our savior. If it weren't for you, we wouldn't have been able to have this surgery!

"I have nothing to give you, but please take this business card. If you ever need a ride or anything in the future, just give me a call whenever and wherever you are. I won't charge you a penny."

With his wife's successful surgery, the heavy burden that had weighed on Peter's heart was finally lifted.

His voice grew more assertive, and he seemed to have gained a bit more vitality.

Audrey was genuinely happy for him and accepted the business card without hesitation. Seeing the honest, kind-hearted man before her who deeply loved his wife, she became more suspicious of what Eliza had once claimed: that the Harper family favored boys over girls and that her father would abuse her whenever he got angry. She had never had a single intact patch of skin on her body as a child and had never had a full meal.

'But if Peter was really such a person, how could he treat his wife so well?' Just as Audrey was lost in thought, the nurse wheeled Jessica out of the ward.

The Harpers didn't continue the conversation with her and followed the nurse to the ward.

After they left, Grant didn't linger much longer. He learned a lot from Eric in the operating room today, enough to write another academic paper. Once published, it would undoubtedly help more doctors improve their medical skills, which would be a great blessing for the medical field.

Before leaving, Grant couldn't help but look back. Seeing Audrey and Eric laugh and chat exceptionally intimately, he stiffened and secretly made a phone call. While grateful for Eric, if someone were to steal Mr. Hayes's woman under his nose, he'd better forget about ever making a name for himself in the medical field.

 

 

Chapter 60

After everyone else left, Audrey finally thanked Eric, "Eric, I really owe you a lot for today."

Once students at Castle Park High School in Riverdale, the two of them actually didn't share a particularly deep bond.

This time, she had no other choice but to message him.

Before Eric could speak, Audrey added with a smile, "If you hadn't arrived in time, the surgery might have faced unknown risks. Since you've spent so much time, let me treat you to dinner."

Eric's smile deepened at her words.

"Given our relationship, a thank you would be too much, but don't think you can skip the dinner. You didn't show up for my graduation party back then, but you can't escape this time.' As he spoke, he moved closer to Audrey and put his arm around her shoulder naturally. Back then, he and Audrey were both in the student union and were quite close because of frequent interactions.

Many people had mistaken them for dating. But at his graduation party, Audrey did not show up.

Years later, Eric didn't want to ask about the reason, but this time, he didn't want to let her go again.

Audrey subtly avoided his hand reaching for her shoulder, and she chuckled along. "What would you like to eat?"

Feeling the emptiness in his hand, Eric paused for a moment before regaining his composure. "To be honest, I don't have much of an appetite. How about I take you home first?"

Audrey was slightly taken aback.

"I can see you're not in the best of spirits, probably too worried earlier. Now that the surgery was successful, you can take it easy," Eric explained thoughtfully.

Audrey was left in a daze, wondering, 'Was it that obvious? Would the Harpers suspect something?'

Eric pushed up the glasses on his nose bridge, his tone more curious. "May I ask the relationship between you and the patient today?"

During the surgery, Eric noticed the skeletal similarities between Jessica and Audrey. Recalling the rumors recently, he couldn't help but speculate about their relationship.

Audrey's expression changed at his question, but she quickly came up with an excuse. "She's a relative."

She was not afraid to admit she was a Harper, but she was not sure if they wanted her as their daughter.

Eric instantly saw through her lie. But he didn't press the issue, instead tactfully changing the subject. "I heard you ended things with Dominic, and I didn't believe it at first until I saw all this today... Audrey, are you sure he's water under the bridge?" As things got so bad, he guessed Audrey wouldn't get back to Dominic in the future.

Audrey's expression stiffened.

She thought Eric's world was only about academics and reports, never expecting he'd be interested in her gossip. 'And the incident had just happened a few days ago. Hadn't he been abroad before that?' she wondered.

When it came to personal matters, Audrey, though feeling a bit awkward, still nodded honestly. "Yes, we've already parted ways."

"Does that mean I got a shot now?"

Eric, who had been walking ahead, suddenly stopped and turned back to look at her seriously. Under the dim streetlights, a gentle breeze tousled his hair, revealing his deep, affectionate eyes.

His teasing remark was tinged with a hint of authenticity in his focused gaze that was hard to discern.

Startled for a moment, Audrey then gave a bright smile. "Eric, you knew that I'd ended things with Dominic, but did you not know I'm already married?"

"You're married?" Eric was instantly stunned. His voice even raised in pitch, a stark contrast to his usual composure.

"Yes," Audrey admitted.

Eric pursed his lips in annoyance and sighed, "Looks like I'm always a step too late!"

Back then, a moment of hesitation led to several missed years with her in college, and now she had gotten married.

Seeing his gloomy expression, Audrey just smiled faintly. She understood that Eric's words didn't signify much affection for her but were more about regret for unrequited yearning in youth.

He no longer had the pure excitement of adolescence for her. Even his eyes showed no trace of emotion, something she could still sense.

But Eric was not entirely convinced, protesting, "I'm really curious about what kind of person could marry Castle Park's campus belle. Why not introduce him to me today?"

He wanted to see what remarkable qualities the man who eloped with Audrey possessed.

Audrey hesitated. She was afraid Eric might say something misleading in front of Alistair, so she casually brushed it off. "There will be opportunities later."

Eric couldn't force her and had to settle for less. "Alright, but you can't refuse me from driving you home."

Audrey nodded with a smile. After all, she had personally asked him for help and couldn't possibly say no all the time.

In the car, Eric took the initiative to chat with Audrey about some amusing anecdotes from organizing activities together in high school.

Topics of reminiscing were always engaging, and Audrey laughed frequently.

Before long, they arrived at her apartment building.

As the car stopped, Audrey was about to unbuckle her seatbelt.

At that moment, Eric suddenly leaned in. The faint scent of disinfectant attacked her nose.

Before Audrey could react, she saw Alistair standing under a parasol tree outside the window and staring at her through the transparent car window...

The moment she saw him, Audrey suddenly remembered the suggestive scene when he had buckled her seatbelt last time.

Overwhelmed by a rush of emotions, she abruptly pushed away Eric, who was leaning in, quickly unbuckled her seatbelt, and dashed out of the car. "Eric, thank you for driving me home today."

As Audrey fled from the car, Eric's outstretched hand froze in mid-air. He quickly steadied his expression and smiled. "You're welcome."

It seemed that Audrey wouldn't give him any chance to get close... But then again, if she were the flirtatious type, he wouldn't have been pining for her all these years.

Audrey was afraid Eric might pull another stunt. She quickly said, "You've had a tough day today. Go back and have a good rest. Let's have a meal together another day."

Eric had originally planned to take the chance to go upstairs for a cup of coffee and perhaps get a glimpse of Audrey's mysterious husband. But it seemed that his plan wouldn't be working out today.

He felt a bit disappointed. However, being always modest and polite, he wouldn't make things difficult for others. After exchanging a few polite words, he drove off.

Only after his white Mercedes disappeared in the distance did Audrey relax. Turning around, she saw Alistair standing under the dim streetlight again.

He was dressed in casual home clothes, his hands casually in his pockets, looking at her from across the street.

Audrey suddenly felt a bit guilty. She reached up to touch her nose and slowly walked over.

Alistair's gaze followed her intently while he remained silent.

The atmosphere grew subtly tense.

The car window was tinted, and Audrey wasn't sure if he had seen her. She wanted to explain, but Alistair hadn't asked. 'What if he hadn't seen? Would a haste explanation make me seem guilty?' She was torn inside.