Chapter 10 Coincidence or Strategy

Charles ended the call with a frustrated sigh, muttering under his breath about Marcus. The trip wasn't urgent. Why couldn't Marcus come home and explain himself in person? Natalie had just arrived at Holden Residence, barely spending a night there, and they were already planning to leave her behind. It seemed inconsiderate. "Nattie, Marcus has been quite busy lately," Charles said, his tone carrying a hint of guilt. "It might take him a little longer before he can properly meet you." "That's perfectly fine, Grandpa Charles," Natalie replied reassuringly. "I already feel bad enough for imposing on you. I wouldn't want Mr. Holden to take time away from his work just to meet me. I'm sure there will be plenty of opportunities when he's less busy." Natalie then asked calmly, "Grandpa Charles, I heard Mr. Holden mention he's taking you on a trip tomorrow. Is that right?" Natalie wasn't upset at all. In fact, she felt relieved. Marcus' absence was actually a good thing for her. Natalie had already instructed Connie to take on the medical request from the Holden family who came from Dithoria State. With her own plans to leave Amberton soon, Charles being away would make things simpler, eliminating the need for her to come up with an excuse. "Yes, though I have no idea what's gotten into Marcus, suddenly deciding to take me on a trip," Charles said, shaking his head with mild irritation. "Nattie, why don't you come with us tomorrow?" Charles continued, his tone softening. "I doubt you've ever been to Balford before." Natalie shook her head. "Thank you, Grandpa Charles, but I've promised my mentor to assist with some work. It's a great chance to learn more during the summer break. You and Mr. Holden should enjoy your trip without worrying about me." Charles sighed but managed a small smile. "You're such a thoughtful girl, Nattie. Alright, but make sure you come back to Hilltop Villa at night." "I promise, Grandpa Charles. Don't worry about me," Natalie said warmly. Relieved, Charles smiled and led her to dinner. After dinner, Natalie excused herself, saying she felt tired, and returned to her room. Once there, Natalie video-called Sarah to confirm that Victor and his family had left Ceder Hill Nursing Home. She also checked that Grace had eaten, taken her evening walk, and was resting peacefully before ending the call. … The following day, Natalie woke up early. She had asked the butler about Charles' schedule the night before and learned he was an early riser who didn't sleep much. Natalie left a handwritten note on the table thanking him for his kindness and stepped out of Hilltop Villa. Not long after Natalie left, a sleek black G-Wagon appeared on the driveway and stopped in front of her. Natalie opened the door, set her bag down, and settled into the modified rear seat, which had been converted into a foldable bed. "Ms. Walker, have some breakfast before you rest," Connie suggested, holding out a neatly packed meal. Natalie waved a hand dismissively and pulled the blanket over herself. "Not yet. Maybe later," she murmured, her voice soft. Connie adjusted the blanket carefully, her movements gentle. Years of blood donations to Diana had left Natalie's body weaker than it should have been. Proper nutrition and rest were critical, and Connie was responsible for ensuring Natalie's well-being. "Let's get moving," Connie instructed the driver. "Make sure the temperature stays comfortable." The drive from Amberton to Balford would take 16 hours. Natalie barely stirred during the journey, waking only once for a sip of water and a brief restroom stop before falling back asleep. Connie kept a close watch on Natalie, occasionally placing a hand near her nose to check her breathing. Only when she felt reassured did she relax. It wasn't without reason that Connie worried so much. Natalie had once performed a 24-hour-long surgery on an elderly woman, an exhausting feat that had pushed her body beyond its limits. The moment she stepped out of the operating room, she collapsed. Connie had been the one to care for her then, cleaning her up, dressing her in fresh clothes, and giving her an intravenous drip. It had taken hours of uninterrupted sleep for Natalie to recover even a fraction of her strength. Since that incident, Connie had been vigilant, determined not to let Natalie overwork herself again. When the Holden family from Dithoria State approached Natalie with an exorbitant offer, Natalie initially refused. She and Connie believed the patient's condition wasn't as dire as they claimed. According to their reports, the heart issue could be managed with proper care and a stress-free lifestyle. But the Holden family's persistence wore her down. Their sincerity had seemed genuine, and in the end, Natalie agreed to take the case. … An arduous 16-hour journey later, the G-Wagon stopped in front of Quinton Hospital in Balford. With over a day left until the appointment, Natalie stepped out with her bag over her shoulder and headed into the hospital director's office. In recent years, Quinton Hospital had transformed from a small, obscure facility into Balford's most renowned private hospital. Its rise to fame was due to one miraculous event, a heart surgery deemed impossible by every top cardiac specialist. The patient had been sent home without hope of recovery, but Quinton Hospital had taken on the case and achieved what others wouldn't dare attempt. That patient, once on the brink of death, was now thriving and healthier than ever. Connie followed Natalie into the office, walking a few steps behind her. The hospital director, Peter Bundit stood up immediately upon seeing them, his respect evident in his demeanor. "Dr. Elim, you're here," Peter greeted her warmly. "I've reviewed the case, and honestly, I don't think it requires your attention." Peter felt it was unnecessary to trouble someone of Natalie's caliber with what seemed like a minor issue. Natalie gave him a calm, assessing glance. "Take another look. Are you certain it's just a minor issue?" Natalie had reviewed the case details after waking from her sleep earlier that day. At first glance, the condition seemed straightforward, but further analysis revealed subtle yet significant risks, including hidden complications that required careful attention. Peter's expression shifted. He reopened the file, his focus sharpening as he examined the details more closely. "When the patient arrives, perform a cardiac CT and vascular imaging," Natalie instructed. "Run all additional tests and bring me the results." "Yes, Dr. Elim," Peter replied, his tone serious. Natalie turned to Connie. "Let's grab something to eat. I'm starving." Natalie had gone almost 16 hours without food, and her hunger was catching up with her. Peter quickly led them to the hospital cafeteria. As they exited the office, Ethan appeared in the hallway, his eyes widening when he spotted Natalie. For a moment, he froze, doubting what he had seen. But before he could confirm it, Peter opened a side door. Natalie and Connie followed him through it, and they vanished from sight. Ethan rubbed his eyes in confusion. He was certain it had been her. "Ethan, who did you see?" Marcus' voice came from behind as he helped Charles down the hall. Charles grumbled incessantly, scolding Marcus for refusing to go home and meet Grace's granddaughter. "You're making me look bad," Charles huffed. Marcus clenched his jaw, suppressing his irritation. He wanted to explain that Grace and her granddaughter were merely opportunists, using this as a way to secure wealth and connections. But as soon as he opened his mouth, Charles covered his ears dramatically. "I don't want to hear it!" Charles declared. Marcus sighed and let it go. There was no reasoning with Charles when he was in this mood. "Mr. Holden," Ethan said cautiously, his voice low. "I think I saw Ms. Walker. I can't be sure, but it really looked like her." Marcus' brow furrowed sharply, his expression darkening. That woman was here? It couldn't possibly be a coincidence. She must have learned about his grandfather's plans and followed them deliberately. Marcus' jaw tightened. A woman like her didn't leave things to chance. Every move she made was calculated, and he was certain this was no exception.