Chapter 1337

Rhea was more filial than Anastasia. After studying medicine abroad, she returned home and pursued her interest in medicinal herbs, aiming to master both Western and Eastern medicine. Her future seemed limitless. Someone even mused, "Who knows? The miracle doctor may take her as his apprentice. Even if not directly, being his apprentice's apprentice would be quite an accomplishment."

These thoughts spurred Maria to speak with the miracle doctor that day. As Austin prepared to leave, Maria stopped him, surprising him with her resourcefulness. She had somehow obtained his number and address, a fact that unnerved him.

Unaware of his apprehension, Maria greeted him with a bright smile, bearing numerous gifts; her servants carried even more. "Mr. Fike! Mr. Fike!" she called out cheerfully. "Where are you going?"

"Why? Do I need to provide you with my itinerary, Mrs. Moore?" he replied coldly.

"Sure!" she blurted, quickly attempting to mask her excitement upon noticing his expression. "No, I didn't mean that! I'm just here to apologize for yesterday. I'm sorry about Mrs. Russell's behavior. Don't worry, I've already told my niece to avoid her!" Maria was clearly demonstrating her loyalty and support.

However, Austin remained unconcerned about whose side she was on. "It's none of my business whether your niece avoids that woman," he stated. Pausing a few steps later, he turned. "By the way, if Mrs. Russell believes I'm unsuitable to treat your niece, she must have a better solution. Why don't you ask her instead of begging me?"

With a cold smile, he walked toward his car. Maria hurriedly followed, urging her servants to keep up as they trailed behind, panting under the weight of the gifts.

"Mr. Fike, you must be kidding! What does that woman know? She's merely leveraging her husband's social standing. She's beneath you; you needn't concern yourself with her. I want you to treat my niece, not her!"

Exhausted, Maria pleaded, but Austin remained unmoved. He opened his car door and started to get in. Seeing him about to leave, Maria's anxiety spiked. Grabbing the car door, she blurted, "Mr. Fike, tell me! What must I do for you to see my niece again? Do I have to beat that woman up?!"

The seemingly casual exclamation caught his attention. Two seconds later, a slow smile spread across his face. "Sure!"