Chapter 565
On the stage, Cedric grabbed the microphone and spoke coldly, “Apologies to Dr. Lloyd and all the guests. I’ve come up here to announce something important. From this moment forward, my eldest apprentice, Simon Gaal, is expelled from my family and teachings!”
Gasps rippled through the crowd, followed by a flurry of heated discussions.
“Cedric just made a public announcement like that at Mount Apothecary’s grand opening. The Aickers must have some serious internal conflict!”
“Simon is Cedric’s top apprentice and is also a well-known figure in Jayrodale. What could have happened to make Cedric cast him out?”
“I’ve heard Simon’s been infatuated with Francesca for years, but she’s never been interested. Maybe that’s the real reason Cedric lost his temper?”
After making his declaration, Cedric walked off the stage without giving further explanation. Francesca rushed over, clutching his arm with teary eyes.
“Grandpa, what happened? Why did you drive Simon away? What’s going on?” she asked in distress.
Cedric huffed. “Fran, today is Dr. Lloyd’s big day. I won’t let that ungrateful scum ruin it. Just remember–if he ever thinks he can have you, it’ll be over my dead body!”
Andrew joined them and sighed. “Dr. Aicker, was that really necessary?”
Cedric shook his head apologetically. “Dr. Lloyd, I lost my composure. I shouldn’t have done that during your ceremony.”
Andrew smiled faintly. “I wasn’t talking about the timing. I meant that if you expel Simon, it might weaken the Aickers’ future.”
Cedric’s expression hardened. “Even if the Aickers collapses, I won’t allow that disgrace to remain under my roof.” Andrew glanced at Francesca. “Fran, stay with your grandfather for now. We’ll catch up after the ceremony.” Francesca wiped her tears and nodded. “Don’t worry, Andrew. I’ll take care of him. You go handle the guests.” As Andrew turned to leave, his eyes grew cold. Natasha, who had been keeping watch from a distance, took the opportunity to approach him.
“Need me to step in, darling?” she whispered playfully.
Andrew’s tone was sharp. “Did you see where Simon went?”
Natasha nodded. “He slipped away in a fit of rage while everyone was distracted by Cedric’s announcement.” Andrew frowned. “Keep an eye out. He’s vengeful. I wouldn’t be surprised if he tried to harm Cedric or Francesca.” Natasha chuckled darkly. “If he dares make a move, I’ll flay him alive.”
She immediately ordered her West End enforcers to secure the area around Moonlit Apothecary.
Just then, another commotion stirred as a group from the Rhodes family arrived. Andrew raised an eyebrow when he spotted Tiana among them. He composed himself and walked forward, greeting them with a polite smile.
“Lauren, Mrs. Rhodes, welcome,” he said.
Lauren returned his smile warmly. “Dr. Lloyd, congratulations!”
She presented him with a pair of large posters. Andrew unrolled them and read the bold words, “Dedicated to Healing and Humanity!” and “The Best Miracle Doctor!”
“Thank you,” Andrew said with a laugh. He handed the banners to Dylan, who took them to be displayed later. Tiana, clad in an elegant dress befitting her stature, gracefully approached, supported by Lauren’s secretary, Eunice. Behind her, Jerry led a security team of elite guards, their presence both protective and intimidating.
“Mr. Lloyd, looks like you went all out for this grand opening,” Tiana remarked casually. “I take it you spent a pretty penny hiring all these people for the show?”