Chapter 17
17 A Price on Gratitude
It weighed heavily on Stanley’s mind.
Maybe he really did need to clear his head.
Meanwhile, the hospital director had followed Calvin out of the room. Once they were alone, the director let out a sigh.
“Didn’t expect that student of yours to have such a temper. I was actually thinking of making her my assistant, but it looks like I’m not blessed enough for that.”
Calvin picked up on the subtle undertone.
“Hey, Scully’s… well, because of how she’s been acting, I’m honestly considering whether I should even let her graduate.”
A flicker of satisfaction crossed the director’s eyes.
Then Calvin pulled Rebecca over.
“Rebecca is far more capable than Scarlett. If you’ve got errands that need running, feel free to ask her.”
Rebecca chimed in smoothly, “Sir, I’ve heard the professor praise you so many times. I’ve always wanted to learn from you.”
The flattery worked like a charm–the director’s mood brightened instantly.
“Yes, I think Rebecca’s got great potential. If you ever need hospital resources, just let me know.”
Rebecca’s face lit up. “Then I won’t hold back. Just don’t get annoyed with me later!”
The director chuckled and immediately had someone issue her a hospital access pass–one that allowed her to freely enter various laboratories in the hospital.
If the circumstances allowed, she could even observe surgeries performed by specialists.
It was the kind of privilege most medical students could only dream of.
Stanley followed behind them, beaming with pride.
Even without the Joyner family, Rebecca was still dazzling and admirable.
Not like Scarlett.
Even when the food was delivered right to her lips, she didn’t know how to lift the fork.
Compared to her, Rebecca was so much more sensible, so much more dependable.
And now, with this pass, Rebecca could even support Eugene with his work as a doctor.
Rebecca really was the Joyner family’s little good–luck charm.
She deserved the very best the world had to offer.
So there was no need to feel bad about cutting Scarlett off.
She brought it on herself.
That bit of frustration in his chest disappeared in an instant, and he walked ahead with a smile.
Back in the hospital room-
With both the director and Professor Miller gone, the others slowly began to filter out. Sᴇaʀᴄh thᴇ ꜰindηovel.nᴇt website on Gøøglᴇ to access s of novels early and in the highest quality.
But even outside the room, people lingered in groups, still murmuring and debating.
“Do you think there might be something wrong with Professor Miller’s miracle drug?”
“I think so. After Scarlett pointed it out, they wouldn’t let her say another word.”
“Being loud doesn’t make you right. Something about this whole thing feels off.”
“But Professor Miller’s a renowned alternative medicine practitioner. His prescriptions are always carefully considered. Maybe Scarlett was bribed?”
“She did break ties with her family and leave the lab. Maybe she’s working with Professor Miller’s rivals
now.”
“But that girl’s eyes were clear, and she stayed calm the whole time. She doesn’t seem like the type to do anything shady.”
“I was there the day she cut ties with her family. If she really had been bought off, there was no need for things to get that ugly.”
The crowd was divided, nearly on the verge of arguing.
But one thing was certain–Scarlett’s name had firmly etched itself into their minds.
Inside the room-
Ben’s lawyer had arrived and officially filed charges against Madam Lewis and Emily. They also requested a re–evaluation of Grayson’s condition in hopes of suing Calvin as well.
“Ms. Scarlett, I’ll never forget what you did for me,” Ben said solemnly. “If you ever need anything, the Lewis family will be there–no hesitation.”
Dr. Carrie, wide–eyed with excitement, nudged Scarlett and whispered rapidly, “Girl, do you realize that’s the Lewis family? Number one in the entertainment industry. They’ve even got pull with the Lane family. Grab onto this! ”
Scarlett: “. ”
“If it’s convenient, just pay me the consultation fee.”
She was broke. Extremely broke.
17 A Price on Gratitude
Finished
Dr. Carrie blinked in disbelief.
Did she just imagine that?
Ben immediately snapped out of his daze. “Look at me, getting all emotional. Ms. Scarlett, give me your account number.”
Scarlett grabbed a sticky note and quickly scribbled down a string of digits. “Thirty thousand. Thanks.”
Ben was stunned. “Thirty thousand?”
Scarlett thought for a second, then said seriously, “I can give you a ten percent discount.”
Ben: “…No, I think you misunderstood me. I meant–how can you charge so little ? ”
Dr. Carrie: “…” Damn . I don’t even make thirty grand in a month !
Scarlett had always charged this rate. It didn’t feel strange to her. “Oh. I’m used to it.”
Ben: “…”
He wrote out a check for three million.
“Thirty thousand is for the treatment. The remaining two million nine hundred seventy thousand is a thank–you.”
Scarlett replied with a calm “Oh. Okay.”
Dr. Carrie sputtered, “Wait–shouldn’t you at least pretend to hesitate?!”
Sean nearly burst out laughing, clutching his stomach as his shoulders shook. “Jasper, Scully’s way too adorable.”
Jasper could tell–Scarlett didn’t hesitate because she didn’t want the hassle.
So she just accepted it.
But then he turned to Sean, his gaze gradually sharpening.
“Scully? You two close or something?”
96