Chapter 549
Michael said, "This person doesn't have the best reputation. He's a disgraced disciple of the Advanced Medical Institute. But as for his medical skills, they are absolutely top-notch—even Dr. Aicker doesn’t measure up in his eyes.”
Tiana looked surprised. “You’re not talking about the Master of Poisons, Bane Eslinger, who defected from the Advanced Medical Institute years ago, are you?”
Michael’s face lit up. “Exactly, Aunt Tiana. You know of the Master of Poisons? Yes, it’s him.”
Tiana’s eyes narrowed as she spoke slowly. “Bane is said to be erratic and eccentric, completely unlike ordinary people. Years ago, he used live subjects for experiments, causing countless deaths, which led to his expulsion and punishment by the Advanced Medical Institute.
“But his medical skills are indeed as legendary as his reputation suggests, even surpassing Cedric. Fine, let’s see what you can do. If you can bring the Master of Poisons into our fold, I’ll count that as a great achievement for you."
Michael was ecstatic. “Thank you, Aunt Tiana! Please rest assured, I will do whatever it takes to get the Master of Poisons to revitalize our Pharmaceutical Division and develop blockbuster formulas for us!”
Tiana glanced at him, her expression softening slightly. “Michael, you should understand why I’m so strict with my own daughter but show favoritism to you, right?”
Michael immediately bowed his head. “I understand, Aunt Tiana. It’s because you’re willing to groom me, not just to take over Rhodes Corporation but the entire Rhodes family in the future.”
Tiana sighed. “You’re correct. That’s exactly the plan of both myself and the family head. Lauren’s father, the head of the Rhodes family, is in a powerful position, but unfortunately, he and I were unable to have a son—only Lauren, our sole daughter.
“Originally, it wouldn’t have been impossible for Lauren to succeed Rhodes Corporation; she has the capability for it. But ever since Joe became infatuated with her, the family has developed different and more advantageous plans for her.
“That’s why, for the sake of family stability, I’m willing to suppress my own daughter and grant more authority to you. You must understand the sacrifice and foresight behind our decision.”
Overwhelmed with gratitude, Michael immediately dropped to his knees. “I will forever remember your kindness, Aunt Tiana!”
However, as Michael knelt, he failed to notice the icy and mocking glint in Tiana’s eyes as she looked down at him. By the time Michael stood up and looked back at Tiana, the frost and ridicule in her gaze had vanished, replaced by the kind and supportive look of a senior admiring a promising protégé.
At that moment, Jerry and Lauren’s secretary, Eunice, entered the room together.
“Mrs. Rhodes!”
The two greeted her in unison.
Tiana gestured for Jerry to wait and turned to Eunice. “Where is Lauren? Tell her to come home with me after work.”
Eunice hesitated, her expression awkward. “Ms. Rhodes… she already left.”
Chapter 549
Tiana’s face darkened. “Where did she go? Contact her and have her return to the Rhodes residence immediately.”
Eunice looked even more uncomfortable. “Ms. Rhodes left with Mr. Lloyd, and her phone has been turned off.
“Right now, no one… knows where they are.”
Tiana’s fury erupted as she immediately tried calling Lauren, only to be met with the same message: her phone was off.
“This is infuriating!”
After several failed attempts, Tiana’s chest heaved with anger.
Jerry stepped forward and said, “Mrs. Rhodes, please calm down. Ms. Rhodes is a dignified and sensible woman. I don’t think she would do anything inappropriate. And as for Andrew, he can be considered a man of integrity. He should know the boundaries he mustn’t cross.”
Tiana gritted her teeth. “Forget about those two for now. Jerry, has Ruby been captured?”
Chapter 550