Chapter 129

"Last time at the racetrack," Lauren said with disgust, "that bastard Harvey pushed Juan into trouble. The Wellers may be Jayrodale elite, but Harvey's nothing but a scheming snake."

Dylan snorted. "Mr. Lloyd, shall I arrange a little lesson for that punk?"

Andrew responded calmly, "Not yet. If he continues his foolishness and crosses my path, he'll learn the meaning of regret."

Lauren's eyes sparkled. Her man grew more commanding daily. He subtly commanded the allegiance of both the Aicker family and Dylan's people. She wondered how Christina could have ever relinquished such a man.

That night, Tony paced restlessly, massaging his throbbing forehead. "Well?" he demanded. "Have they found a way to treat Juan?"

His trusted man replied anxiously, "Mr. Madden Senior, countless experts and professors have failed. None can help Mr. Madden."

Tony slammed his fist on the desk. "If they can't help, get more people! The best from Blumedale, Chetvine—anyone! Just do something!"

His man jumped. "Mr. Madden Senior, please calm down. Bernard Hackett, a deputy chief from Jayrodale General Hospital, is en route."

Tony frowned. "A deputy chief? Is he up to this?"

"Dr. Hackett was Mr. Thatcher's personal physician," his man explained, "so he should be skilled."

Tony's expression softened. "Good. If he cures Juan, he'll be handsomely rewarded."

A while later, Bernard met Tony. "Greetings, Mr. Madden Senior."

Tony waved dismissively. "Skip the pleasantries. How's Juan? Did you save him?"

Bernard's face fell. "Mr. Madden clings to life, but his attacker was incredibly skilled. It seems an ancient medical practice, and I'm afraid..."

"Afraid of what? Speak plainly."

"I'm afraid I'm at a loss!"

"At a loss? You're useless, then? No solution?"

Bernard offered an awkward smile.

Tony slapped Bernard, sending him staggering. "Useless! Juan is dying, and you grin like an idiot?!"

Dizzy, Bernard stammered, "M–Mr. Madden Senior, please! There might be a solution."

Tony growled, "Say it! If anything happens to Juan, none of you will escape unscathed."

Bernard explained, "Two people might help. One is Dr. Cedric Aicker."

Tony interrupted, "Forget that old fool. Who else?" Cedric's opposition to the East Side was clear; Tony wouldn't stoop to asking for his help.

Bernard replied honestly, "The other is more skilled than Dr. Aicker. You likely don't know him—he's a junior doctor at Jayrodale General Hospital."

Tony's expression brightened. "A junior doctor? His name? I'll send for him immediately!"

Bernard smiled apologetically. "Mr. Madden Senior, his name is Andrew Lloyd. Don't let his position mislead you. His skills are exceptional; he can save Mr. Madden."

Chapter 130