Chapter 30 Adrian’s True Identity
“That man?” Annelise caught the weight behind his words, her brow arching slightly. “Isn’t he the young heir of the Caldwell family?”
Jonathon hesitated, stumbling over his response, careful not to spill Adrian’s true identity. “Well, sort of. He’s a distant relative of the Caldwells, but his last name isn’t Caldwell.”
Annelise lowered her gaze, popping a piece of hard candy into her mouth, a faint smile tugging at her lips. “I half–expected you to stick to your guns and claim that old gentleman in there isn’t a Caldwell at all.”
“Dr. Caldwell, I’m treating you like one of us now,” Jonathon said smoothly, his silver tongue deftly steering the conversation. “Besides, with your upright character, I’ve got no worries. My boss does hail from Brookford’s wealthiest family–the Caldwells.”
Annelise’s tongue nudged the candy against her cheek, and she let out a soft. “Mmm.”
Jonathon chuckled, shaking his head. “Dr. Caldwell, you’re something else–cool as a cucumber even hearing that. I was overly cautious before. My apologies.”
“No need,” Annelise replied, pausing mid–step to glance at a nearby alley. “A good subordinate protects their boss’s secrets. You did the right thing. This is far enough–you can leave me here. I’ll be there on time tomorrow.”
Jonathon didn’t budge. “Dr. Caldwell, aren’t you curious why someone from the Caldwell family would show up in Criford?”
Annelise gave a quiet laugh. “I’m just a doctor. That’s not my business to pry into.”
Her response only deepened Jonathon’s admiration for her. It wasn’t just her medical skill that impressed him–it was her integrity, her quiet strength.
“Dr. Caldwell, I really hope I could have the privilege of being your friend,” Jonathon blurted out, his enthusiasm overriding any concern about their age difference. “If you ever make it to Brookford, I’ve got your back!”
Annelise didn’t brush off his warm offer.
After all, Brookford was the birthplace of Paradise Pharma.
11:09
Chapter 30 Adrian’s True Identity
11 280 Winchan
Sooner or later, her path would lead her there
She appreciated people like Jonathon. He was bold but not brash, sharp without being servile. Besides, he was brimming with business savvy.
“Then it’s settled. Friends it is,” Annelise said, her smile warm and
genuine.
Jonathon’s face lit up. “Deal! I’m honored!”
Truth be told, he’d second–guessed himself the moment the words left his mouth
Annelise had treated Antonio, making her a benefactor to the Caldwell family. He, a mere general manager, was far from qualified to call her a friend.
Yet, to his surprise, she’d agreed without hesitation.
Her swift acceptance only cemented his belief in her character. He felt that, unlike those shallow socialites of Brookford, Annelise was genuine.
He’d seen her heart when she treated those elderly people on the street, and he knew her compassion ran deep.
The more he learned of her kindness, the stronger his urge to shield her grew
“Annie,” Jonathon’s tone turned serious, his eyes narrowing, “I need to tell you something. The man upstairs? His background is no small matter. If you can cure him, your future’s set- you’ll soar. But if you can’t… well, trouble might come knocking. Don’t worry, though. I’ll do everything I can to protect you.”
Annelise’s lips curved into a slow, confident smile. “Jonny, relax. So far, there hasn’t been a single illness I couldn’t handle.”
Jonathon blinked, stunned. “You’re saying you can actually cure him?”
“Of course,” Annelise said, her voice calm but steady. “It’ll take time, but I’ve already figured out what’s causing his condition. Want to know?”
Jonathon leaned in, curiosity piqued. “What is it?”
“The best doctors can read a patient’s life through their symptoms,” Annelise said, her voice soft but commanding.
A faint smile played on her lips. “Wealth and luxury don’t guarantee health. That man’s been living too lavishly, and his body’s buckling under the excess. It’s left him frail. Lucky for him,
11:09 D
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