| Body |
Chapter 1
"Wesley, are you trying to harm me? You useless piece of trash, can't even make a decent cup of coffee, can you?"
Madison Blair lifted her coffee cup and splashed it directly onto Wesley Harrington's face.
"What are you looking at, you spineless waste? Your name sounds so lofty? I might as well call you a waste."
Glancing at the grotesque expression of his wife's mother, Wesley pulled out his phone to check the time.
Exactly twelve o'clock. It had been five full years since he married Taylor Reed.
The appointed time had come.
He had fulfilled his promise, safeguarding the Reed family for five years, transforming them from a family living off fishing to one perceived as affluent by the common folk.
Wiping the coffee off his face, he turned and walked away.
"Where do you think you're going? Go fetch some more coffee," Madison shouted.
"Madison, didn't you say this waste is obedient at home, doing whatever he's told? I don't think he's taking it lying down."
Madison grew angrier. "Wesley, you stop right there. My family has fed and housed you. If you dare disobey, I'll have you thrown out!"
Ignoring her, Wesley continued downstairs.
"When Taylor comes back, I'll immediately have you two divorced. Do you hear me? Stay right there," Madison threatened, "I'll let you know your place today."
Grabbing a golf club, Madison swiftly charged towards Wesley.
Seeing Wesley heading downstairs, she swung the club viciously at his back.
Without turning back, Wesley gently sidestepped.
Losing her balance, Madison tumbled forward, rolling down the stairs with a series of thumps.
"Ouch... it hurts, it hurts so much!"
As Madison reached the ground floor, she wailed in pain and her sister immediately rushed to her.
"Wesley, what have you done? How dare you hit my sister!" Madison's sister hurried down, checking on Madison's condition.
Wesley remained silent, observing the scene.
"Quick, call Taylor. Tell her to come back. Today, she must divorce this waste." Madison glared at Wesley. "How dare you hit me? Not only will I let Taylor divorce you, but I'll make sure you leave in disgrace."
"Mum, what's wrong?" At that moment, a gent and a lady walked in.
The lady was Taylor, Madison's daughter.
She ran towards Madison.
As Madison pointed at Wesley, tears streamed down her face. "Taylor, he hit me, he hit me! When you're not home, he changes his attitude, scolding and hitting me in the slightest displeasure. He even pushed me down the stairs just now. Alexis can testify."
Madison's sister, Alexis Blair, chimed in. "Yes, Wesley, this trash not only hit your mother but also threatened to hit me too. We cannot tolerate such trash."
"Taylor, I have been telling you to divorce him for years. You've been supporting him, treating him like a Lord at home, but he's an ungrateful wolf in sheep's clothing."
Helping Madison up, Taylor noticed the scrapes on Madison's arms and legs, her expression turning cold.
"Wesley, why did you hit my mother? You better give me an explanation."
Wesley looked at Taylor, his wife.
Five years had passed, and she had never shown him kindness.
Taylor dressed impeccably, a paragon of a successful lady, with a face that could be deemed angelic, yet whether her heart was as angelic remained a mystery.
Her figure, too, left countless men yearning.
For five years, Wesley had thought he might develop feelings for this lady, but in reality, it never happened.
"There are surveillance cameras in the house," Wesley stated calmly before descending the stairs into the hallway.
Despite residing in a three-story villa, Wesley's living quarters were confined to the stairwell.
He harbored no resentment towards this arrangement. It was merely a promise. It was just that Taylor failed to appreciate him.
This home held little value that he wished to cling onto.
Retrieving a wooden box from beneath his pillow, Wesley extracted two documents. Casting a fleeting glance at the modest abode he had called home for five years, Wesley smiled faintly.
He thought, "Finally... I'm free."
Pushing the door ajar, Wesley was met by Taylor's piercing gaze. "I've reviewed the surveillance footage. Yes, my mother intended to strike you, but even if she did, what difference would it make?"
"She's a lady. How much could her blows hurt you? Why did you dodge?"
"If you hadn't dodged, my mother wouldn't have tumbled down." Wesley stared at Taylor, unable to comprehend her thought process.
He had no interest in engaging in these arguments. Handing over the two documents to Taylor, he remarked, "The divorce agreement. I've already signed it. Take a look. I'm leaving with nothing."
"With your current influence, there's no need for you to visit the city hall. Someone will handle it for you, right?"
Madison was taken aback. She swiftly snatched the divorce agreement, flipping through it hastily.
The contents were indeed straightforward. Both parties willingly divorced, with Wesley relinquishing all claims and having already signed.
In an instant, Madison's pain seemed to dissipate. "Taylor, sign it quickly. Sign it."
Taylor was still in a daze.
She pondered.
"A divorce agreement? Wesley has already prepared a divorce agreement. On what grounds?"
"What gives him the right to initiate a divorce? All these years, he's done nothing at home, lacking any ambition. Always practicing martial arts, what right does he have to seek a divorce?"
"If anyone should initiate it, it should be me. Moreover, now that I'm back to discussing this matter with him. Could it be that word got out, and Wesley, for the sake of his pride, rushed to prepare a divorce agreement first?"
"It must be so, but... No!"
"Wanting to leave with nothing, is he retreating to advance? As the chairman of the Reed Group, how could I be served with a divorce?"
"Hey Wesley, I never expected this from you. Have I not treated you well enough? You seek a divorce, attempting to turn your retreat into advance, aiming to embarrass me?"
Taylor glared at Wesley. "I'm telling you, it's impossible."
Snatching the divorce agreement, she tore it to shreds.
"Taylor, what are you doing? Such a great opportunity. Why not just sign it and let him leave?" Madison grew anxious.
"Mom, I do intend to divorce this trash, but the decision must come from me. I returned specifically to address this matter."
With that, Taylor produced two documents. "Wesley, remember that it's me who's divorcing you. It's me who no longer wants you. Initially, out of marital obligation, I had considered offering you some compensation. Now, you don't even need to think about it. Sign the divorce agreement and leave my home."
Wesley offered a faint smile as he accepted the divorce agreement.
"What are you laughing at?" Taylor demanded angrily.
Wesley's smile seemed to mock her, fueling her rage.
Ignoring her entirely, Wesley signed the document and handed it over.
"What are you laughing at? Answer me! Who do you think you are?" Taylor roared once more.
Wesley glanced at her before striding towards the exit.
"Stop!" The gent who had accompanied Taylor stepped forward, blocking Wesley's path. "Taylor asked you a question, and... Your previous attitude displeased me. Apologize to Taylor, or I'll have you leave in disgrace!"
Chapter 2
"Yes, let him leave in disgrace. He thought he could just hit me and walk away so easily," Madison joined in the commotion, also noticing the gent blocking Wesley's path.
Madison had a keen interest in luxury goods, having frequented various high-end establishments over the years as the Reed family's living conditions improved. The gent was wearing an expensive watch and dressed head to toe in high-end luxury brands.
Seeing Madison's gaze, the gent spoke. "Rest assured, today Wesley must pay the price."
The gent introduced himself, looking at Wesley, "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Henry Clark, the eldest son of the Clark family and the general manager of the Clark Group in the North District."
"From now on, I will accompany Taylor on her journey of life, and I will not allow anyone to bully her."
"My identity carries weight. You should understand that. Now, apologize to Taylor. Apologize! Did you hear me? Apologize!"
Madison's eyes lit up. She hadn't expected the gent before her to hold such a high status. She continued to shout, "Did you hear that? Taylor will be with Mr. Clark from now on. Apologize now."
Wesley glanced at Henry, then at Taylor. He thought, "Have they been together all along?" Wesley had wanted to ask but decided against it because there was no need. He simply gave them a glance and continued walking towards the exit.
"Are you ignoring me?" Henry's face turned cold as he reached out to grab Wesley. Henry's hand froze mid-air as he received a solid hit.
"Until I sign the divorce papers, Taylor and I are still wife and husband. I don't care to investigate whether you two had any intimate relationship during that time, but don't provoke me, or I won't hesitate to make you regret it." Wesley's gaze was icy, and as Henry met his eyes, he felt a twinge of fear and swallowed his words.
Taylor was also stunned. She knew exactly what Wesley had been like over the past five years. There were many surveillance cameras in the house, and she would often check them.
Even when Taylor wasn't home, despite how her family treated Wesley, he always obeyed without complaint, especially towards her. He had never raised his voice, no matter how they treated him.
Today, not only did Wesley dodge when her mother struck, but he also initiated the divorce and now even struck Henry.
Taylor was at a loss for words, thinking, "How could this cowardly gent dare? On what grounds does he dare?"
This change was difficult for Taylor to accept as if she didn't truly understand this guy. The gent who used to be obedient to her, completely submissive, now revealed this side of himself. She watched Wesley walk away in a daze, feeling a strange discomfort in her heart.
"Isn't he leaving with nothing?" Alexis pointed at the wooden box Wesley was holding. "What is he taking with him?"
Madison also realized. Over the past five years, Wesley had always treasured this wooden box, carrying it with him wherever he went. She thought there must be something valuable inside.
Realizing this, Madison hurriedly followed. "Wesley, stop right there, leave the wooden box."
Wesley paused, glanced at Madison, and said, "This is my personal belonging."
"Nonsense, what personal belonging could you possibly have after marrying into the Reed family? Everything you've eaten, worn, and lived in over the years has been provided by the Reed family. Put it down."
As she spoke, Madison reached out to grab the wooden box.
"Ah..." A scream rang out as Madison quickly retracted her hand, a gash appearing on her palm, a crimson liquid dripping.
The wooden box was now stained with the same crimson liquid, trembling lightly in Wesley's hand.
"It's not the right time yet, the day you thirst for this crimson liquid will come," Wesley murmured softly, patting the box before turning to continue his stride towards the exit.
"Monster! A monster!" Madison screamed, causing Taylor and the others to rush out. Seeing the wound in Madison's hand, Taylor was filled with rage.
"Wesley, aren't you going to say something?" Wesley halted once more, contemplating before meeting Taylor's gaze.
"Just stay out of my way from now on. Consider this a warning to you."
"Taylor, that wooden box of his has a mechanism. It must hold something valuable! We can't let him take it with him," Madison, enduring the pain, reminded them.
"Mom, your injury is important. We'll deal with him later. Let me take you to the hospital first." Taylor comforted Madison before calling out to the retreating Wesley.
"Our marriage is over! Yet, you dared to hurt my mother! This won't be the end of it! I will make you regret it!" Ignoring her, Wesley continued walking out.
"Rest assured, I promise he won't see the light of day tomorrow." Henry stepped forward to console. "Let's focus on getting your wound treated first."
"I want him to regret ever existing in this world, to apologize to me in repentance," Madison roared.
"Mom, trust me, I will make him do just that." Taylor looked at Madison with a mix of pity and determination. "Let's go to the hospital first."
In the villa area, Wesley halted, his voice cold. "Get out."
An elderly gent leaped down from a tree, appearing to be in his seventies, yet landing silently from a height of around ten feet.
"Mr. Harrington, your father wants you to come home and take charge."
"He stopped being my father five years ago. He's my enemy."
"Mr. Harrington, you misunderstood your father. He had his reasons back then. I swear in my life, once you know the truth, you will forgive him."
"Huh!" Wesley smirked coldly, saying, "I nearly passed away back then. Is that also a misunderstanding?"
The old gent pleaded, "Mr. Harrington, this situation is truly not as you perceive it."
Wesley didn't engage further with the old guy. The events of that year were etched in his memory forever. He was the one who had been abandoned. If not for that incident, why would he have stayed with the Reed family for five years?
Watching Wesley walk away, the old gent had tears silently streaming down his face. "Mr. Harrington, I truly... I truly can't bring myself to speak the truth, but you have misunderstood your father. He also bears burdens and endures pains beyond what an ordinary person can handle."
As Wesley's figure disappeared, the old gent stood up, hesitated for a moment, then dialed a number on his phone.
"Mr. Harrington is now divorced. I've given you the news firsthand. If your daughter is truly together with Mr. Harrington, you must fulfill the promise and let her persuade Mr. Harrington to come home."
After hanging up, a middle-aged gent in a luxurious estate jumped up excitedly. Calming himself, he immediately made another call. "My dear, you're at Yeadeo, right?
"Go find Wesley now. Don't mention the engagement for now. Use every means to get close to him, make him fall in love with you."
"Dad, I don't have time."
"No matter what you are busy with, you must go find Wesley now. No matter what reason you approach him, you must leave a good impression the first time."
"Dad, I'm in trouble right now. If I don't handle it well, I might be good as gone. I have to deal with it immediately. I'm hanging up."
Chapter 3
The middle-aged gent's voice lowered significantly. "Is there a big incident happening? You didn't tell me? What happened?"
"Quinn Kingsley from Yeadeo, Mr. Kingsley, used our product and now has one foot on the grave. If something really happens to him..."
"You mean Quinn, the uncontested leader of Yeadeo?"
"Yes."
"In that case, you should go find Wesley. Trust me, in this world, there is no problem that Wesley can't solve. As long as he's willing to help, you'll be fine. Listen to me, go find Wesley immediately."
The lady fell silent for a moment before saying, "Okay."
At Yeadeo Harbor, a gent with a large flaxen chain and a watch, sporting a crew cut, hurriedly disembarked, accompanied by a dozen gentlemen.
"Mr. Reed, wherever that trash is, we will find him and tear him apart."
"Yes, that guy dared to harm your mother. We'll make sure he pays for it."
Frank Reed's face turned cold. "Wesley, you coward, thinking you can overturn the world? How dare you touch my mom? Just wait until I find you, you're finished."
"We've found him. Wesley got into a taxi, and our boys followed him."
"Let's go!" Frank waved his hand, leading dozens of men who boarded the car with harpoons, steel pipes, and other weapons.
Inside the taxi, Wesley gazed at the scenery outside, feeling a strange sense of tranquility.
He thought to himself, "I never imagined that while I was secretly paving the way for the Reed family, Taylor, after progressing so rapidly, would start looking down on me more and more."
"Those ladies who know my true identity, which one of them isn't trying to throw themselves at me? Ladies like that don't interest me."
"Being an ordinary gent is truly difficult," Wesley murmured, smiling faintly and deciding not to dwell on these matters anymore. He had important things to attend to and no time to waste on personal affairs.
"Young lad, are you going to Feidgeuo Manor for a job interview?" The driver, curious about Wesley's destination, inquired.
Feidgeuo Manor was Yeadeo's most mysterious private area. Originally a villa area, it was bought at a huge cost five years ago and completely renovated. It was said to have cost a trillion dollars. The former villa area was now Feidgeuo Manor.
"That's my home," Wesley replied nonchalantly.
The driver was taken aback by this revelation, silently cursing Wesley for bragging. After a couple of minutes, the driver regained his composure. "It seems like you and I both prefer to keep a low profile. My car usually gathers dust at home, so I occasionally drive a taxi to experience life."
Wesley chuckled, "My car has been driven by my assistant for the past few years, so it's not gathering dust."
"Haha..." The driver laughed. "We should get together sometime and see whose car is more impressive."
"Sure, whenever we have the time."
As they chatted, the vehicle soon arrived near Feidgeuo Manor, where the massive head of the Feidgeuo Peak protruded, creating a unique landscape in Yeadeo.
The driver asked with a smile, "Since you're the owner here, it's fine if I drive in, right?"
"Of course," Wesley replied.
As soon as Wesley spoke, several cars caught up from behind.
The cars surrounded the one Wesley was in, with the front vehicles braking to force the car to a stop.
When numerous people descended from cars wielding harpoons and steel pipes, the driver's face paled.
Frank and his group got out of the cars, instantly closing in, and without hesitation, started attacking, the steel pipes and harpoons thudding against the car.
Frank's henchman yanked open the door of Wesley's car, poised to stab Wesley with a harpoon, but Wesley swiftly exited the vehicle.
With a firm step on the ground, he launched a swift hit.
A muffled sound echoed as the henchman was hit away.
"What are you looking at?" Frank noticed his henchmen were all staring at him. "All of you, attack together and take him down!"
As he commanded, the henchmen Frank brought with him surged forward.
The taxi driver, trembling, took out his phone to call the police, but Frank glared at him. "I am Frank Reed from Yeadeo Harbor. If you dare, go ahead and make that call."
Frank, leveraging his sister Taylor's status, had been causing trouble in Yeadeo Harbor, and no one dared to provoke him.
Upon hearing Frank's name, the driver hastily put away his phone. "Mr. Reed, I'll just check the time, you guys continue."
"Huh!" Frank snorted coldly, casting his gaze towards the surrounded Wesley.
The sounds of thuds continued to ring out incessantly. Because Wesley was completely surrounded, Frank was unable to see the situation inside clearly, but he could imagine it. After all, in Frank's mind, the henchmen under his command were not to be trifled with.
"Hit him hard for me!"
Another muffled sound and a figure flew out. At that moment, Frank finally saw the situation clearly, and his face turned pale.
Frank knew that Wesley liked to practice martial arts, but he had never expected Wesley to be this skilled. It wasn't Wesley who had been beaten, but his own men by Wesley alone.
Frantically, Frank turned and ran to retrieve a crossbow from the car.
"Clear the way." Frank bellowed, aiming the crossbow at Wesley.
"You scumbag, you think you can fight? Move one more time, and I'll end your life! Surrender!"
Wesley, holding a wooden box, stared at Frank. Ignoring the crossbow in his hand, Wesley said, "Tell your henchmen to back off, or you'll all see the light from above!"
"You're really good at pretending to be tough." Frank took two steps forward. "See the light? Move a muscle and see if I can end your life or not! If you don't have the guts, apologize now!"
Wesley turned his head and looked at the approaching cars, with two expensive ones in the lead, two more in the rear, and another one in the middle.
"Keep acting tough, and I'll put a hole in your head." Frank spoke while glancing at the five cars. "What, looking for help?"
"Let me tell you, those who ride in these cars are not the kind of weaklings like you who rely on connections. With me here, in Yeadeo's social hierarchy, even those who ride in such cars wouldn't dare meddle in this matter. And let me make it clear, without my sister, you're nothing."
Chapter 4
As Frank's words faded, the five cars came to a halt.
A bodyguard opened the door of the one in the middle, revealing a dazzling pair of shining shoes catching everyone's eye.
The shining shoe encased a beautiful foot. Above, the skirt's hem was adorned with lace.
Then, like a fairy stepping out of a painting, she appeared before everyone's eyes.
The lady was beautiful!
Frank was mesmerized. Ever since the Reed family rose to prominence, he had been surrounded by ladies, but compared to the elegant lady before him, they were worlds apart.
It wasn't just a difference in appearance but an incomparable gap in demeanor.
The lady descending from the Maybach seemed like a celestial being untouched by mortal affairs.
The embodiment of a fairy in the mundane world.
She simply stood there after getting out of the car, perfectly embodying what it meant to be graceful and elegant.
The lady glanced at Wesley, then at Frank.
Frank grinned, saying, "May I have the honor of knowing the name of this esteemed lady? I am Frank..."
The lady spoke calmly. "Disrespect Mr. Harrington, and you're done for."
Her bodyguards, unfazed by Frank's crossbow, swiftly overwhelmed him, sending him crashing to the ground.
The henchmen who had come with Frank, previously defeated by Wesley, now scrambled to their feet and fled in all directions.
Who would dare provoke someone who could afford such a car?
"My sister is Taylor Reed, the chairperson of Reed Group," Frank shouted, clutching his head.
Ignoring him, one of the bodyguards dragged him to the roadside grass while another used a belt to tighten around Frank's neck, exerting pressure.
"Enough, a lesson is all that's needed." Wesley spoke calmly, and only when the lady gestured did the bodyguards release Frank.
Frank lay there, already unconscious.
Wesley turned to the lady. "Who are you?"
"I am Mia Roberts, the general manager of Vinver Business Alliance's Yeadeo branch." She looked at Wesley and continued, "Mr. Harrington, my father mentioned that you have miraculous healing skills and earnestly requested your assistance. A generous reward awaits."
Wesley furrowed his brow slightly, thinking, "There are indeed people who recognize my abilities and status, yet I've rarely intervened in the past five years. Today, shortly after I divorced Taylor, she is here. Whose arrangement is this?"
"Mr. Harrington, my father also mentioned that you are benevolent and has raised the banner of compassion among healers, serving as a role model and benchmark for all in the medical field."
Wesley chuckled, "You have a way with words. Tell me the specifics."
"Mr. Harrington, please get in the car first. I will explain in detail on the way."
The phrase "compassionate healer" held significant weight for Wesley, who had saved countless lives from the brink of death.
Without further ado, he got into the car.
Inside, after Mia brewed coffee for Wesley, she began. "Vinver Business Alliance has a wide range of business operations, and I mainly oversee the health supplement sector, which has seen some success in recent years.
"Recently, Quinn Kingsley started using our medicines, and now there's an accident."
As she spoke, Mia kept her gaze fixed on Wesley.
Quinn, the undisputed leader of Yeadeo, was a figure of immense influence.
Upon hearing this name, Wesley showed no particular reaction. "If the city's leader faces issues with your products, it is indeed a concern. Let's go and see."
With just a sentence, Wesley leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes to rest.
Mia was secretly alarmed, thinking, "He knows who Quinn is, yet he seems indifferent. Who is this Wesley, really? No wonder Dad has instructed me to find a way to win his favor." Mia's inner resistance toward Wesley quietly shifted.
Wesley had piqued her curiosity.
As the vehicle was moving, Wesley's phone rang.
Wesley opened his eyes and took out his phone to see Taylor calling.
Pressing the answer button, he asked, "What's the matter?"
On the other end of the line, Taylor, driving towards Feidgeuo Manor, had a grim expression.
She thought, "Has Wesley ever spoken to me in such a cold tone before? Is he really this heartless right after our divorce?"
Already furious, she snapped. "Wesley, do you even consider yourself a human being?
"Today, not only did you lay hands on my mother, but you also had someone attack my brother. Do you not remember our past at all?"
Wesley calmly replied, "Do we have a past to remember?"
"You truly are a heartless scumbag, just as my mother said. You are an ungrateful and vicious person I raised for five years. Even a pet would wag its tail at me!"
Taylor wanted to continue her tirade, but the phone line had already turned busy.
This only fueled her anger further.
Just now, she had received a call from Frank's underlings, informing her that Wesley had sent people to attack Frank and even intended to end him.
Taylor wanted to demand answers, but...
As Taylor was clutching her fists, her gaze turned icy.
After a moment, she picked up her phone again. "Wesley, you are so narrow-minded. You have no ambition. Any lady would steer clear of you."
"Just because I dumped you, you are doing this on purpose to make me feel sick. Pretending to be aloof and seeking revenge? Do you even deserve it?"
"In Yeadeo, squashing you would be as easy as squashing an ant. You're asking for it! If anything happens to my brother, I will make you wish you were ending!"
Her furious voice message echoed in the car.
Wesley chuckled and put away his phone.
Beside him, Mia seemed contemplative. Before coming, she had already ordered a swift investigation into Wesley.
She was curious, thinking, "How could someone valued by my father could be the one 'marrying into' the Reed family."
Being tactful, Mia chose not to ask and pretended not to have heard.
After about forty minutes, they arrived at the Kingsley Manor.
The Kingsley family members, upon seeing Mia alight from the car, all wore grim expressions.
Mia greeted them with a smile, "Everyone, this is Wesley Harrington, Mr. Harrington, the miraculous healer I specially invited to treat Mr. Kingsley."
"Him? The gent who married into the Reed family?"
"A miraculous healer? Is he even worthy? Are healers so worthless now?"
"A useless gent who mooches off of the Reed family? How dare he call himself a miraculous healer? Truly a joke among all jokes."
Chapter 5
Amanda Kingsley, Quinn's granddaughter, stared coldly at Wesley and Mia.
This lady, dressed in a smart suit, also held significant fame in Yeadeo, overseeing the region's business activities, including investment attraction and various local business negotiations.
Amanda had a favorable view of Taylor, who had risen swiftly in recent times, and they had interacted frequently.
She was aware of Wesley's existence and had advised Taylor to part ways with him early on.
But Amanda never imagined that Mia would bring someone like Wesley, a complete waste, and claim he was a miraculous healer.
Glaring at Mia, she said, "Mia, once my grandfather is well, it's best for your Roberts family to leave Yeadeo."
"As for you..." She glanced at Wesley. "I will advise Taylor to divorce you. You have deceived Taylor's feelings and now shamelessly made your way into my family. You are a despicable creature."
After reprimanding Mia and Wesley, she turned to an elderly gent beside her, and her tone and attitude completely changed. "Mr. Phillips, sorry to trouble you. My grandfather is inside, please."
Mia looked at the elderly gent, who was already in his twilight years, feeling deeply shocked.
Scott Phillips, the 38th generation heir of the Healing Clinic, was now ninety-two years old.
Renowned as a miraculous healer, he was a respected figure in the medical community of Yeadeo and even nationally.
He no longer conducted consultations personally due to his old age. Mia had visited him specifically to pay her respects once she had arrived in Yeadeo but had not met Scott.
She never expected Scott to appear in person. It was understandable, as Quinn held a prominent position in the city. Despite the profound influence of the Phillips family, they still had to show respect to Quinn.
Mia looked at Wesley, feeling conflicted and thinking, "Dad has confidently claimed that Wesley has extraordinary abilities, but does he really?"
She harbored doubts, but out of propriety, Mia spoke. "Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the trouble."
Wesley smiled, "It's fine. As long as the person can be healed."
His open-mindedness impressed Mia.
After about half an hour, Amanda emerged from the room. All eyes instantly turned towards her.
It was evident that Amanda had wailed out, with traces of tears still visible.
"Amanda, how is it?" A middle-aged gent anxiously asked her.
The rest of the members of the Kingsley family who had rushed back also focused their attention on her.
"Mr. Phillips said that there's little hope of recovery. He could only use acupuncture to wake grandfather for half an hour. When grandfather wakes up, let's all go in and see if he has any final instructions."
Everyone was shocked.
"How could this be?"
"Is Mr. Phillips also helpless?"
The members of the Kingsley family found it hard to accept this reality, especially since Quinn had always treated his juniors well.
The thought of Quinn departing saddened some, and tears silently fell.
Publicly, Quinn's status was the foundation of the Kingsley family's prominence in Yeadeo.
If Quinn were to pass away, the Kingsley family would undoubtedly decline.
The atmosphere within the Kingsley family was somber.
Amanda looked at her family members, opened her mouth, but said nothing, silently turning back into the room.
"Stop crying," A middle-aged gent said sternly, "Dad wouldn't want to see you all in tears. If he's really leaving, we mustn't let him worry about us. Pull yourselves together."
After these words, the middle-aged gent also entered the room.
The younger members of the Kingsley family wiped their tears vigorously, trying to force smiles, but in truth, they looked better at crying than pretending to be happy.
Mia's spirit plummeted as she realized the gravity of the situation. Even if an ordinary person passed away from consuming health supplements, it spelled big trouble for those who sold them. And when the deceased happened to be Quinn, the stakes were even higher.
She understood that it would be difficult for this branch to stay in Yeadeo, and even the headquarters might face repercussions.
"Let's go in and have a look." Wesley glanced at Mia. "There might still be a chance."
"Ah..." Mia stared at Wesley in surprise. Seeing him already heading towards the room, she quickly followed suit.
Inside the room, the members of the Kingsley family stood around the mattress, maintaining a certain distance.
Scott lit the alcohol lamp and took out the needles, his expression solemn.
He looked at the members of the Kingsley family. "Think about what you want to say to Mr. Kingsley later. Once you're ready, let me know, and then I'll proceed with the acupuncture."
As he said this, tears welled up in many eyes.
"If you don't mind, let me take a look. I have a way." Wesley spoke up, drawing everyone's attention.
Amanda's face darkened. "Who let you in? Get out!"
"Mia, have you lost your mind? Tricked by this trash and actually brought him here as a miracle healer. Get out with him! I'll settle the score with you in a couple of days."
Mia glanced at Wesley, at a loss for words.
"Even Mr. Phillips is unable to reverse the situation. What use are you? Get out." Another younger member of the Kingsley family angrily rebuked.
The middle-aged gent added, "We're in no mood right now. You better leave immediately."
"I understand your narrow-mindedness," Wesley continued, "But as a healer, once I see a patient, I cannot stand by and watch him draw his last breath."
"Wesley, you're quite the charlatan. Do you really want to be gone right now?" Amanda's voice was filled with anger.
"Amanda, let me say a few words," Scott interjected, and Amanda fell silent.
Looking at Wesley, Scott began. "Young lad, at my age, I've seen a lot and have a broad perspective. Today, however, I find it hard to remain indifferent. I practiced medicine from the age of sixteen until I stopped seeing patients for a total of seventy years."
"I've saved countless patients from various illnesses. I never easily declare a patient's fate, nor do I believe I have the right to do so."
"But from your recent remarks, it seems like you're accusing me of such actions. Young people wanting to make a name for themselves by stepping on the shoulders of their predecessors, I can understand."
"But this kind of behavior displeases me."
"My displeasure, what does it mean to you? Do you understand?"
"Even if you are a healer, your career will be ruined because of this."
Chapter 6
In the face of Scott's veiled threats, Wesley simply smiled and brushed them off.
Looking at Scott, he asked, "I've always focused on the issue at hand rather than attacking individuals. I have a few questions for you. If you can't administer the needles, how long do you think Quinn can hold on?"
"Seven days, but he will remain unconscious," Scott replied bluntly.
"Then let me ask you this, is there anyone in the world with better medical skills than you?"
"Outrageous," Amanda coldly interjected, "Mr. Phillips is unparalleled in his medical expertise."
Scott glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, let me handle this question."
Continuing to address Wesley, he said, "I don't underestimate myself, nor do I overestimate. There are countless talented individuals in the world, like stars in the sky. I may not dare claim to be the best in medical skills, but those who surpass me are few."
"That means there are some," Wesley calmly remarked, causing Scott's expression to shift slightly, "Indeed, there are."
"Then let me ask you this. Do you think within seven days, the Kingsley family won't find someone with better medical skills than you?"
"If they do find someone, do you believe there is an illness that you cannot cure, but this person can?"
Wesley's questions were sharp and resounding.
Scott's face changed once more as he was rendered speechless.
"Even if there is, that person will never be you." Amanda's face turned icy. "Now get out. Don't spout your eloquence here. Your deceitful behavior is repulsive."
"Your understanding of me is merely hearsay, isn't it?" Wesley retorted, his gaze mocking Amanda, "Has your background and education taught you such arrogance and prejudice?"
"Arrogance?" Amanda's face grew colder as she disdainfully looked at Wesley. "Prejudice?
"Did I say something wrong just now? You are nothing but stagnant waste, a parasite living off others. If it weren't for Taylor, you would have starved on the streets long ago."
"Relying on sweet words, deceiving Taylor. She, with her kind heart, can't bear to divorce you, but don't push your luck. If it weren't for Taylor's sake, you would have been sent out long ago."
Scott interrupted Amanda, "Amanda, although I find this lad a bit annoying, what he said does hold some truth. There are indeed individuals with better medical skills than me. Your grandfather can hold on for seven days. Try reaching out to see if someone can come over. I'll help you make connections."
"If it really doesn't work out after seven days, I'll administer the needles to your grandfather. However, at that point, I can only buy you three minutes."
As soon as Scott spoke, the faces of the Kingsley family members grew even more solemn. True healers were rare and not easily summoned.
While the Kingsley family had connections in Yeadeo, their influence waned outside of it.
"Mr. Phillips, please administer the needles. Life has its ups and downs, and we understand that. Just buy my father a bit more time." The middle-aged gent spoke up.
The rest of the members of the Kingsley family nodded in agreement.
Amanda looked at Scott. "Mr. Phillips, please."
"In that case, please have everyone unrelated leave. I need silence," Scott calmly stated.
Amanda glared at Wesley, her eyes speaking volumes without a word.
The unrelated individuals were, naturally, Wesley and Mia.
Mia glanced at Wesley, intending to leave, but she suddenly hesitated.
Instead of leaving, Wesley moved forward.
"What are you doing?" A young member of the Kingsley family stepped forward with a stern expression, pushing Wesley.
In one swift motion, Wesley executed a clean shoulder throw, toppling the young gent to the ground, his own expression turning cold.
"A bunch of fools! If it weren't for my teacher's teachings about not turning a blind eye to those in need, I wouldn't bother with you ignorant lot," Wesley remarked with disdain.
As Wesley effortlessly took down one individual from the Kingsley family, the others seemed slow to react.
By the time they realized what was happening, Wesley had already picked up the needle next to Scott and casually flicked his wrist.
The needle flew out of his hand, piercing Quinn's temple, followed by a second needle, a third needle, and so on.
"What are you doing? Stop!" Amanda's voice rose in urgency, echoed by the rest of the Kingsley family members who rushed forward to restrain Wesley.
"Stay back, everyone. Wait." Scott suddenly stood up, blocking the others. "Let him try."
Amanda and the others were left dumbfounded, thinking, "What does this mean?"
Despite their confusion, they heeded Scott's words.
After Scott stopped the members of the Kingsley family, he fixed his gaze on Wesley.
Wesley proceeded to use eighteen needles in succession, symbolizing the levels of pain.
Even if someone had descended into the depths of hell, they must be brought back.
The final needle, also piercing a vital point, caused Quinn's body to tremble suddenly, resonating with the previous eighteen needles.
Scott's eyes widened, his body trembling slightly. His reaction left Amanda and the others even more puzzled, but none dared to interrupt.
Moments later, Wesley placed a palm on Quinn's chest, causing all eighteen needles to be shaken off. When all the needles landed on the ground, the part of the skin where the needles had pierced turned dark.
Wesley then dragged Quinn to the edge of the mattress, flipped him over with his head facing downwards, and gave him a firm pat on the back.
Quinn spat out a mouthful of black liquid. When Wesley flipped him back to lie flat, his complexion had regained some color.
"The Hand of Darkness... It's the Hand of Darkness!" Scott exclaimed with excitement, his body quivering, "It's the Hand that descends into the dark world, snatching people from the hands of the Evil!"
"You do have some knowledge, recognizing the Hand of Darkness." Wesley glanced at Scott.
Scott's gaze towards Wesley had undergone a drastic change. He respectfully clasped his hands together.
"Mr. Harrington, thirty years ago, I had the honor of attending a teaching conference held by Mr. Vanderbilt. I saw the Hand of Darkness, but my limited aptitude only allowed me to grasp the basics."
"I have been blind and ignorant. I apologize for my earlier offenses. Please forgive me, Mr. Harrington."
The Mr. Vanderbilt Scott referred to was Wesley's teacher, Ulysses Vanderbilt. He generously imparted his skills to others, but the ability to learn depended on one's innate talent.
In this world, few could learn Ulysses' skills.
Scott had been fortunate to receive guidance from Ulysses, which had elevated his medical skills. However, the Hand of Darkness, a miraculous ability, was beyond his comprehension.
Wesley smiled faintly, "Your actions earlier are understandable. I appreciate your words."
"Mr. Harrington, you must be an exceptional disciple of Mr. Vanderbilt, possessing unparalleled magnanimity. Impressive," Scott continued.
"Enough with the flattery at your age."
"You are mistaken, Mr. Harrington. Every word I speak is sincere."
Mia, Amanda, and the others stood bewildered by the unfolding situation.
"Mr. Phillips... he... he..." Amanda's words faltered.
Scott turned to the members of the Kingsley family. "Meeting Mr. Harrington was Quinn's luck. His symptoms have been cured by Mr. Harrington. With a few days of rest, he will be fine."
The waste Taylor had previously said was called Mr. Harrington by Scott!
Recalling their previous attitudes, Amanda hurriedly apologized, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."
The members of the Kingsley family all apologized in unison, "Mr. Harrington, I'm sorry."
Chapter 7
With a faint smile, Wesley remarked, "As family members of a patient, your actions earlier are understandable. There's no need for such formality."
Amanda's perplexity deepened as she thought, "Where is the cowardly waste that Taylor described? This display of magnanimity and breadth is far from it."
Mia, too, felt a shiver of realization, thinking, "No wonder Dad has insisted on my proximity to Wesley.
This guy..."
She gazed at Wesley, her curiosity piqued, a sense of exploration stirring within her.
"Mia has brought you here, Mr. Harrington, to cure my grandfather. The Kingsley family will never forget this act. However, considering that my grandfather's ailment stemmed from the health supplements produced by the Vinver Business Alliance, we will be conducting an investigation into it."
Amanda continued, looking at Wesley, "What do you think... of this approach?"
It was Mia who had invited Wesley, so Amanda had grown wiser, refraining from asking for a direct punishment of the Vinver Business Alliance.
As Mia heard Amanda's words, her heart skipped a beat, realizing trouble was brewing.
"On the way here, Ms. Roberts briefed me on the situation. You conducted experiments on mice, correct?"
Amanda nodded. "Yes, the health supplements we received were exclusively provided by the Roberts family. There were no similar cases on the market, so we used mice for testing.
"All the mice that ingested this supplement were gone."
She looked at Mia and added, her voice turning colder, "Before the experiment, I specifically contacted Mia to inquire about the testing methods during the development phase, which involved mice.
"There have been individuals eyeing my grandfather's position, some even wishing for his demise. I never imagined that the Vinver Business Alliance, which I attracted for investment, would become a weapon in someone else's hands."
"Do you have any of the remaining medicine?" Wesley inquired, looking at Amanda.
Amanda nodded. "Yes."
"Bring some over."
Immediately, someone fetched the medicine. After it was brought to him, Wesley took out a supplement and swallowed it directly.
This scene left Amanda and the others dumbfounded.
Scott, too, was bewildered. "Mr. Harrington, what are you doing?"
Wesley smiled, "Just proving that this medicine is not toxic."
"Mr. Harrington, thank you," Mia thanked sincerely, feeling like crying at that moment.
Amanda, with a puzzled expression, looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, are you suggesting that my grandfather's condition wasn't caused by the Vinver Business Alliance's medicine? What about the mice?"
The rest were equally puzzled.
"Yes, but not entirely," Wesley said, leaving everyone even more bewildered.
Mia's emotions were like a rollercoaster ride, from relief to immediate tension.
"This medicine itself is not toxic, but when taken with another substance made from a certain plant, it results in Quinn's condition. The mice would die immediately, while humans could endure a few more days."
Wesley continued to explain, "The plant used in this concoction is originally meant for crafting slow-acting toxins, not for human consumption."
Looking at Amanda, Wesley said, "During this period, whoever had access to your grandfather and the mice will better understand why these events occurred."
The gaze of members of the Kingsley family immediately focused on a lady.
Amanda, somewhat incredulous, looked at her. "Can you offer an explanation?"
The lady was the wife of Amanda's deceased brother. She found it hard to accept, as did the rest of the Kingsley family.
This lady had been named the exemplary lady who served her family well this year, not due to her connection with the Kingsley family but because she genuinely deserved it.
"What do you mean? Amanda, what explanation do you want from me?"
The lady stared at Amanda. "Am I the only one who had access to Grandfather and the mice? You, and you... and you, who didn't have access?"
"You all claim to treat me as family. Since I married into the Kingsley family, I have worked diligently, contributing my share even if not acknowledged."
"Amanda, it has been over a year since your brother passed, and I never once considered remarrying. Now, just because of his words, you demand an explanation from me?"
Pointing at Wesley, the lady questioned, "Just because he accuses me of poisoning, you suspect me? Tell me, did I poison him?" The lady glared at Wesley.
"I am merely analyzing the facts. As for concluding this case, it's not within my purview," Wesley addressed the members of the Kingsley family, saying, "You should conduct a thorough investigation into this matter.
"I will write a prescription. Have Quinn take it on time, and he will recover in seven days."
Amanda hurried to fetch paper and pen while Wesley prepared the prescription. Once done, he was ready to leave.
Amanda said hurriedly, "Mr. Harrington, I've already made arrangements for lunch."
"No need," Wesley smiled.
The Kingsley family sought to build closer ties with Wesley, given his extraordinary medical skills. Wesley was well aware of this.
Looking at Amanda and the others, Wesley remarked, "In the future, if you encounter any difficult medical cases that others cannot solve, seek me out. Remember, cases others cannot solve."
The gaze of the Kingsley family members toward Wesley changed once again. Many renowned healers had eccentric personalities and were difficult to engage.
They hadn't expected Wesley to possess such remarkable medical skills without any airs.
As Wesley prepared to depart, the members of the Kingsley family did not dare to insist on his stay, so they accompanied him outside.
"Oh, how could we forget such an important matter? Amanda, what about the consultation fee?" The middle-aged gent inquired, looking at Amanda.
"Mr. Harrington, I apologize for the oversight. Please wait a moment." Amanda hurried back inside and soon returned with a bank card in hand.
"Mr. Harrington, there's one million dollars in here."
Without hesitation, Wesley accepted the bank card and boarded Mia's car.
During the journey, Mia boldly looked at Wesley. "Mr. Harrington, you've helped me immensely. Can I treat you to a meal? Don't decline in a hurry. It's not a fancy restaurant, but it will leave you wanting more. It's a small place on the street, with only eight plates of noodles served each day, each plate containing different ingredients.
"I managed to secure a reservation. Are you interested?"
Wesley thought, "Eight Plates of Noodles? Ah, Aaron's restaurant. It has been a while since I visited those old friends."
Wesley nodded. "Let's go then."
The restaurant, Eight Plates of Noodles, was located on Chanxold Street near the Yeadeo First Central Hospital.
The establishment was small, serving only eight plates of noodles each day at a price of 10 thousand dollars each. Vernoic's television culinary program had specifically covered this incident.
Reservations were a must to secure a plate.
The restaurant's owner had a mysterious background. While the specifics were unknown, a high-ranking noble from the capital of Vernoic, Kingsland, had caused a scene there once.
He had attempted to force his way in without a reservation. Although this incident hadn't been reported, rumors suggested that a garbage truck had to be called to dispose of the intruder's remains, as he was too shattered to be removed by conventional means.
Since then, no one dared to cause trouble.
On their way, Mia introduced Wesley to the background story.
"Mr. Turner, two plates of noodles." Mia called out once they arrived.
Aaron Turner didn't respond but visibly paused upon seeing Wesley beside Mia.
A faint smile appeared on his usually stoic face. Though the flesh on the face seemed stiff, it was indeed a smile. "Coming right up."
Mia glanced at Aaron with a hint of surprise, thinking, "When did he become so warm and enthusiastic? His tone seemed a bit agitated earlier, didn't it?"
Soon enough, Aaron brought two plates of noodles to the table. One steaming hot and the other devoid of any warmth.
As Mia observed Aaron placing the plate without steam in front of Wesley, her expression changed slightly.
It was a plate of instant noodles having soaked in cold water, with the seasoning barely dissolved.
She felt a sense of panic. Mia had wanted to leave a good impression on Wesley, which was why she had chosen this place.
However, Aaron had served such a plate of noodles.
She dared not question Aaron. The type of noodles served here was not determined by the guests but by Aaron's mood.
"This girl named Mia is quite something, living up to her name, and quite kind-hearted," Aaron remarked, looking at Wesley.
"Get lost," Wesley retorted, using his fork to pick up the noodles and devouring them.
Mia's face turned pale instantly. Disrespecting Aaron was akin to risking Wesley's life.
To her astonishment, Aaron chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes.
He wiped them away. "Alright, I'll leave you to your meal."
Before departing, he gave Mia a thumbs-up. "Seize the opportunity."
The eight plates of noodles symbolized the eight comrades who had faced life and life-threatening situations together.
Wesley ate voraciously. Initially, they had only one pack of instant noodles to share among the eight of them, forcing them to divide it.
Despite the circumstances, they devoured the noodles joyfully.
Aaron had promised that once they survived, each one would have the most delicious plate of noodles.
However, five of the eight had perished.
Wesley had come dangerously close to life-threatening situations, but managed to cling to life.
For him, the plate of noodles was not food but the bond of friendship that had shielded him from harm.
"Do you... know each other?" Mia couldn't help but ask, her voice low and curious.
"Some things are better left unknown," Wesley replied.
Mia nodded in understanding, falling silent as they continued eating noodles. She couldn't help stealing glances at Wesley throughout the meal.
This gent had piqued her curiosity even more.
"Wesley, I see. No wonder you agreed to the divorce so readily. You've already found someone else outside."
A sharp voice interrupted their meal.
Taylor approached with a cold expression, accompanied by Henry.
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