Chapter 91
Cedric called out anxiously, "But Dr. Lloyd, you haven't accepted me as your apprentice yet! Don't worry, I know the protocols. I'll surely make this apprenticeship worthwhile!"
"It wouldn't be appropriate," Andrew replied dismissively. "However, I'm open to discussing medical techniques with you in the future, if the opportunity arises."
As Andrew left the Aicker residence, Cedric watched him go with disappointment. A new spark of hope ignited in his eyes, however, when he glanced at Francesca.
"Fran, he healed you, right? Any chance there's a spark between you two?" Cedric asked with a sly grin.
"Grandpa, what are you talking about?" Francesca's face flushed, baffled by her grandfather's sudden change in demeanor.
Cedric clasped his hands behind his back and mumbled, "Silly girl, it's obvious Andrew isn't an ordinary person, considering his skills at such a young age. I wanted to become his apprentice to gain a powerful ally, but that won't work. At his age, it's natural to be ambitious. While he may not care for an old man like me, he might be swayed by your charms."
Francesca understood Cedric was trying to use her beauty to forge a connection with Andrew. The realization left her weak-kneed and embarrassed.
"Grandpa, you're overthinking it. Andrew may be skilled, but he's just another junior doctor at our hospital," Francesca explained, hoping to quell his wild ideas.
Cedric chuckled. "Oh, Fran, you're so young and naive. Just because he works at Jayrodale General Hospital doesn't mean that's the whole story. Anyone who knows pressure-point techniques and ancient medical practices doesn't have a simple background. He likely has connections to Chetvine's elite medical circles, or even some prestigious sect."
Francesca remained silent, remembering her earlier suspicions about Andrew's background during the incident with Dylan. She had learned not to underestimate him, and lately, she'd found herself smiling more in his presence, feeling something indefinable.
Meanwhile, Simon's gaze lingered on Francesca's delicate features and graceful figure. He had always considered her his future wife and wouldn't let anyone take her away.
Though he admitted Andrew's skill in curing Francesca's rare condition was impressive, Simon felt a twisted satisfaction. Now that she was healed, he could barely contain his excitement at the prospect of intimacy with her. An indescribable heat burned within him.
Just then, Cedric received an urgent phone call. After listening briefly, he grabbed his medical bag and rushed out.
"Fran, have a good rest at home. Mr. Thatcher has fallen critically ill, and I need to go immediately."
Francesca froze in shock. She recalled Andrew's prediction at the racetrack: without immediate treatment, Mark's condition could become life-threatening.
Could Andrew's medical expertise really be that extraordinary?