Chapter 67

The club’s racetrack teemed with thousands of spectators, captivated by the races. Horse racing had always been a favorite pastime of the wealthy, both locally and internationally, with betting a prominent aspect of the sport. Lauren and Andrew strolled arm-in-arm to the premium viewing deck, Francesca trailing close behind. This exclusive area was reserved for lifetime club members; its occupants were invariably wealthy or influential.

In the center of the deck, Jayrodale’s mayor, Mark Thatcher, sat surrounded by his staff, intently watching the races. It was well known that while the mayor had many interests, horse racing held a special place in his heart.

“Mr. Thatcher, what a pleasure,” Lauren greeted him.

Mark adjusted his glasses and smiled. “Ah, Lauren! How is Mr. Rhodes Senior faring?”

“Thank you for asking, Mr. Thatcher. Grandpa is doing quite well!”

Mark nodded, but his expression shifted to surprise upon noticing Andrew. “Lauren, my dear, when did this begin? Tell me about this fortunate young man. What family is he from? Is he a rising star in the industry?”

Before Lauren could reply, a cold laugh erupted from behind Mark. “Mr. Thatcher, he’s neither from a prestigious family nor an industry prodigy.”

“Surely anyone who’s captured the attention of Jayrodale’s most eligible bachelorette must be extraordinary. Don’t be shy, Lauren, introduce him,” Mark urged, smiling.

The man continued his mockery. “Mr. Thatcher, you’re mistaken. He’s unremarkable—a doctor at Jayrodale General Hospital with no significant background or achievements. He simply caught Ms. Rhodes’ attention.”

The man was Bernard, the deputy chief of Jayrodale General Hospital. Before Andrew's arrival, Bernard had been flattering Mark; Andrew's presence reignited his resentment.

“Who I choose to be with is hardly your concern, Dr. Hackett,” Lauren retorted, irritated by Bernard’s tone.

Bernard sighed. “My apologies if I’ve offended you, Ms. Rhodes. However, I can’t help but think it’s a pity. A distinguished lady like you should at least be with Mr. Thatcher’s son!”

Mark’s expression darkened. His son had previously pursued Lauren, a courtship he had strongly supported due to their similar social standing. Lauren’s rejection, however, had been a blow to his pride.

Though Mark had eventually accepted the outcome, seeing Lauren with a mere doctor felt like an insult. It was as if his son was not even as good as this physician.

Mark said cautiously, “Lauren, while we elders shouldn’t interfere in young people’s relationships, given my friendship with the Rhodes family, let me offer some advice: have your fun, but don’t take it too seriously.”

With that, Mark returned his attention to the race, ignoring Andrew.

Bernard shot Andrew a venomous glare, his eyes filled with malice. He thought, ‘That’s what you get for crippling Philip and destroying his future!’