Chapter 1324

Austin strode away, his pretense dropped. Lily didn't attempt to stop him; she hadn't invited him and had no intention of letting him into her home.

Anastasia remained silent, observing Lily's composure. "If the homeowner hasn't asked him to stay, who am I to object?"

Maria watched them, then hurried after the departing man. "Mr. Fike! Mr. Fike! Miracle Doctor!" she called, as he didn't stop.

Austin abruptly halted, whirling around to face Maria with anger. "Don't call me 'miracle doctor' again! If that woman is capable, why don't you let her treat your niece?"

He walked away sternly, ignoring Maria. She paused for a moment, then resumed her pursuit. "Mr. Fike, don't let those ignorant people upset you. It's not worth it. Mrs. Russell is just a pampered, out-of-touch woman!

How would she know how skilled you are? She's an ignorant hillbilly; please disregard her. The entire nation knows you're an excellent doctor. Who is she to question your credibility?

Now that you've seen my niece's condition, don't you feel for her as a doctor? Her father is Secretary Rollins. If you cure her, he'll handsomely reward you. You're experimenting, aren't you? If you need anything, I'm sure he could help you…"

Austin reached the gate, opened his car door, and turned. "Mrs. Moore, I need the patient's cooperation, even if I'm willing to treat her. As you saw, Lily Christian has misled your niece, and she only listens to her. I'm afraid I can't help you."

"No, she's just a young girl. What does she know? She's just—"

Austin cut her off. "If you want my help, tell your niece that if she wants to get well, she must listen to me. I can do nothing if she listens to random people saying random things."

Maria nodded repeatedly. "Of course, she'll listen to you. Who else but the miracle doctor? Rest assured, it…"

As she declared her resolve, Austin entered his car, fastened his seatbelt, and leaned out the window. "Since you say so, contact me after you speak with her."

He raised his index finger. "And don't let this happen again. I don't want laypeople interfering while I treat a patient."

"Yes, I understand!" Maria replied, watching as Austin started the car and drove away.

Meanwhile, Anastasia continued chatting with Lily. "Lily, my aunt says that man is a miracle doctor, but why did you treat him like an enemy?"

Lily replied casually, "He's hardly an enemy; I simply dislike him." Anastasia was curious. "So, is he a miracle doctor?"