Chapter 1323

"Who is she to look down on me? What qualifies her? However inadequate I may be, I should be able to stand tall in her presence regarding herbal medicine, shouldn't I?" Austin straightened his back. "You have a problem with that?"

Lily chuckled coldly, remaining silent.

Austin flared up at her attitude. His face stiffened, the friendly conversation he'd planned forgotten. He'd intended to inquire about the lab data; Lily's longer tenure and greater experimental knowledge might offer insights, preventing him from pursuing unproductive avenues. Instead, her silence infuriated him. He said mockingly, "It seems Mrs. Russell doesn't trust me and perhaps knows a better candidate. In that case, I'll get out of your way."

He turned to leave, but Maria stopped him. "Mr. Fike, you can't leave! You promised to treat Tasia!"

She quickly addressed Lily. "Mrs. Russell, perhaps you don't know Anastasia's condition or who Mr. Fike is. As Dominic Fike's last apprentice and a renowned miracle doctor, he can cure anything. Also, he's so sought-after that appointments are rare. It took great effort to hire him for Tasia, so please don't undermine her chances of recovery!"

Lily found this ridiculous. "Oh, so you're Dominic Fike's secret apprentice. Excuse me for not showing you the appropriate respect." Austin was speechless, his face hardening further. He thought, It's a compliment from others, but from Lily… She knows who the apprentice is. It's fine if she doesn't reveal it, but why tease me? "Mrs. Moore, since I'm unwelcome and this isn't the right setting for treatment, Ms. Rollins will have to see me another day." He looked away, speaking coldly. Maria was perplexed. Didn't Mrs. Russell pay him a compliment? Why is he still upset? Great minds are indeed unpredictable!

"Mr. Fike, please don't be upset!" Maria apologized. "Tasia, why don't we go home? Mr. Fike can examine you there."

Anastasia, knowing little about Austin beyond her aunt's hasty explanation, remained confused. Years of encountering numerous "miracle doctors" had left her numb; she didn't particularly anticipate Mr. Fike's treatment. Lily, however, had brought her unexpected joy with a simple lunch and blueberry mousse. Since Lily clashes with this so-called miracle doctor, I'll side with her. She bit her lip, shaking her head. "I don't need a miracle doctor. I'd like to stay at Lily's a little longer."

Austin and Maria were stunned. Too ashamed to remain, Austin snorted. "It seems I'm not needed."