Chapter 101

The invited guests showered Mark with gratitude and favor. Harvey, however, seethed with frustration. His scheming had yielded nothing, and Andrew, of all people, had stolen the spotlight. He, Harvey, was supposed to be Jayrodale's golden boy, the rising star.

Through gritted teeth, he growled, "Andrew, you've stolen my thunder one too many times. Just wait—I'll find a way to take you down!" He stormed from the Thatcher residence.

Christina called. "Harvey, how's Mr. Thatcher doing?"

He forced a steady laugh. "Everything's fine. He's cured."

"Wonderful! Who healed him? Dr. Aicker, the one you invited?"

"Of course," Harvey lied smoothly. "Who else could handle something so complicated?" Despite his wounded pride, he maintained a confident tone. "Mr. Thatcher has already called me for a private meeting. Just wait for the good news, Christie. I'll talk later."

"Sure. He probably wants to thank you personally," Christina said. "I heard Andrew was at the mayor's mansion. Did you see him?"

Harvey sneered. "Christie, don't even mention that guy. He made a fool of himself and was ejected by security."

Christina laughed coldly. "I don't understand him sometimes. Anyway, I've got to go!"

Meanwhile, in the main hall, Mark said earnestly, "Mr. Lloyd, I don't know how I can repay you for saving my life." He had unknowingly addressed Andrew formally.

Cedric chuckled. "Mr. Thatcher, your recovery is entirely thanks to Dr. Lloyd. I did nothing."

Lauren smiled playfully. "Oh? Mr. Thatcher actually wants to thank Dr. Lloyd?"

Mark laughed. "Young lady, are you implying my word as mayor means nothing?"

Leaning on Andrew, Lauren grinned. "Dr. Lloyd doesn't care much about money. If he needs any, I can support him, so you don't need to worry about financial compensation."

Andrew felt awkward at her boldness. It looked like she was claiming him.

"Mr. Lloyd, name anything within my power, and it's yours," Mark offered.

After a moment, Andrew replied, "When treating patients outside my practice, I usually accept rare medicinal ingredients as payment."

"Rare medicinal ingredients?" Mark asked, intrigued. "Those precious substances with innate spiritual energy, far more valuable than common herbs?"

Andrew nodded. "Exactly. Do you have any in your collection?"

Mark smiled broadly. "While incredibly rare, you're in luck. I have a Seventh-Heaven Quince in my vault!"

Andrew's eyes lit up. The Seventh-Heaven Quince was exactly what he needed. He hadn't expected to find it here.