Chapter 221: Romantic Rival
Casimir shot him a glance. “I do have my own principles. Don’t treat me like a bastard.”
“Hmph! Who can really tell? Not a single man is trustworthy! I’ll be keeping a close eye on you. If you dare step out of line, just wait and see how I deal with you!” Samuel glared fiercely.
“Why must men make things difficult for each other?” Percival uttered from the side, his voice laced with helplessness. “Don’t make it any harder for a fragile woman. Can’t you show more care for Ray-Ray? Mr. Goodridge, Casimir, consider it as my plea to you.”
“You’re just saying something redundant. Ray-Ray is my sister. Why would I make things difficult for her?” Samuel glared fiercely. “Did you pay attention to what Casimir said earlier? You can’t be with Ray-Ray! The main reason is the Lorimer family!”
“Don’t worry. I heard it. I won’t confess my feelings to her right now,” Percival nodded. “However, I hope to bring her more happiness as a friend. I truly wish for her to live a more joyful life. Do you know? She fell ill the night before last, wracked with intense pain all over. By the time she managed to come find me, she had already passed out from the agony. She only woke up in the hospital tonight. Her illness is so severe, yet she chose not to disclose it to any of you, only confiding in me. Why? That’s because she trusts me.”
Casimir and Samuel tensed instantly. Almost in unison, they asked, “What illness does she have?”
Percival wore a look of helplessness. “As for the specific illness, I’m not sure either. I’ve consulted with many medical experts, but none of them have encountered a similar case before. However, the painkiller that I’ve developed in my lab is working wonders for her, which is why she came to me.”
“Why didn’t you tell me about this sooner?” Casimir said, clearly displeased.
“Ray-Ray told me not to tell anyone,” Percival said helplessly. “Just how disappointed must she have been to reject you all like this?”
“I’ll take her abroad to seek treatment from the best doctors,” Samuel said with a grave expression.
“Do as you wish, as long as you truly care for her.” Percival let out a bitter smile. “Do you know why I’ve come out to eat with her, even though it’s so late? We didn’t come out for a date. She just has a fondness for chili con carne, so I took her out for some. When she gets to eat the food she likes, she gets incredibly happy, you know? Her smile is genuinely sweet. I’m not longing for her. As long as she finds joy in my company, I’m content.”
Percival’s words once again brought a look of guilt to the faces of Casimir and Samuel. Ever since Raylee was released from prison, they had never once contemplated this issue. They had never contemplated how to bring joy to Raylee. Does she enjoy chili con carne? How could something so cheap possibly bring joy? Both of them couldn’t comprehend Raylee’s train of thought.
“Have we talked enough for tonight’s matter to be considered settled, gentlemen?” Percival asked, his brow furrowed.
“You can go now,” Casimir said to him indifferently.
“What? Why do I have to go?” Percival glanced at Raylee in the café. “My patient is still here!”
“I’ll take her back to the hospital. You’re not needed here anymore, so leave immediately!” Casimir urged impatiently.
“Fine. You’re my childhood friend, my investor, and someone who recognizes my talent. Whatever you say goes. In this lifetime, I’ll never fall out with you.” Percival turned around, but right after he did, he turned back and said with a serious face, “I will quietly cherish my affection for Ray-Ray in my heart and also protect her through my actions. You hold a significant place in my life. I hope you won’t let me down. Otherwise, I might just become your greatest romantic rival.”
“I knew you’d never give up your sneaky ways. From now on, I’ll be keeping a close eye on you too. I dare you to lay a finger on Ray-Ray and see what happens.” Samuel snorted.
Percival flashed a smile, said no more, and turned to leave.
“My assistant will drive you home, so you may leave now,” Casimir said to Samuel.
“If I leave, what about Raylee? It’s the middle of the night. What are you planning to do being alone with her?” Samuel asked warily.
Overwhelmed with emotion, Samuel felt waves of pain radiating from where his head had been struck. He grimaced in discomfort, clutching his wound with his hand.
Annoyed, Casimir said, “You really should go to the hospital to have your head checked now. We wouldn’t want you to end up brain-damaged in the end!”
After saying that, he headed toward the café. Upon seeing the trio part ways, Raylee eagerly stepped out.
“Where’s Dr. Shapiro?” she asked anxiously.
“He has left, but don’t worry. We’re all sensible people. We promised not to resort to violence, and we stuck to that.” Casimir then asked with concern, “I heard from Percival that you were unwell. How are you feeling now, any better? Why didn’t you tell me about it? Do you really have no trust in me at all?”