Chapter 70

Lauren covered her mouth, suppressing a laugh. She suddenly realized these so-called Jayrodale elites were little different from the social climbers they mocked. "Andrew," Harvey declared, "I challenge you on behalf of Mr. Thatcher! Don't get cocky. Your first two wins were beginner's luck. Fortune won't favor a fool forever!" Bernard added, "Well said! Those wins were dumb luck. No one in Jayrodale can match Mr. Thatcher at horse racing, especially not some junior doctor!"

Mark chuckled, waving them off. "Come now, we're not sore losers. Dr. Lloyd, if you win this one, you'll earn my respect!"

"If we're playing by the same rules, Mr. Thatcher, then I won't lose," Andrew replied with a calm smile.

The crowd erupted. "Such arrogance!" "This young man doesn't know his place!" "How dare he speak to Mr. Thatcher like that!"

Francesca's heart raced. She couldn't believe Andrew dared speak so boldly to Mark. Christina, however, watched Andrew with newfound interest, surprised by his confidence and daring.

Mark's tone turned serious. "Horse racing is unpredictable," he said, "but I've never lost three races in a row to anyone. Young man, there's always someone better. Your confidence has stirred my competitive spirit!"

Losing twice wasn't a significant setback for the mayor; it was a slight blow to his pride. But this young, unknown doctor's audacity ignited a spark. He decided that if Andrew believed he could win again, the young man was in for a lesson.

As the host announced the start of the race, ten horses burst onto the track. Mark had chosen Number Two, the club's reigning champion. Experienced bettors quickly placed heavy bets on the clear favorite. Andrew, however, chose Number Four, again defying the crowd.

"Number Four's past its prime," Harvey thought gleefully. "The club plans to retire it this season. This idiot's going to lose!"

Mark smiled. "Number Four is well past its glory days," he explained. "Number Two is a premium stallion, imported from abroad, worth its weight in gold. I'm afraid you've bet on the wrong horse this time!"

"As you said, Mr. Thatcher, the race isn't over until it's over," Andrew responded confidently. "Anyone could be the dark horse."

"Dark horse?" Dexter mocked. "Sounds more like a dead horse to me."

Lauren reassured Andrew, "Don't worry if we lose this one. We've already won twice!"

Mark chuckled. "Lauren, you're as cheeky as ever. But this time, victory will be mine!"