Chapter 9 The Challenge

Currently, William stood waiting for Jared at the entrance of Glamor Hotel, drawing attention from those entering the gate. "Isn't that Mr. Sullivan? Is he waiting for someone? I wonder who that could be, making Mr. Sullivan wait!" "I heard the eldest son of the Scott family is getting married, and the wedding is happening here. Perhaps he's waiting for someone from the Scott family?" "Could be, considering the Scott family's prominence. They deserve some respect." People whispered among themselves as they entered the hotel, while William lingered outside, checking his watch occasionally with a hint of impatience. When he spotted Jared approaching, William's excitement surged, and he hurried to greet him. "Jared, you've finally arrived. Please come inside." William took Jared's hand, visibly relieved. "You must have been worried, Mr. Sullivan. I promised I would come." Jared knew that William was concerned he might not show up. William appeared somewhat embarrassed and could only offer a smile, saying, "Indeed, you're right." William adopted an unusually humble demeanor, sparking curiosity among those arriving at the hotel about Jared's identity. "Shall we head inside for the treatment?" Jared suggested. At that moment, William heard someone calling his name from behind, "Mr. Sullivan, I'm running late!" William turned around, furrowing his brow and giving Josephine a stern look. The newcomer, dressed in a white coat, was indeed a doctor. He was the private physician whom William had hired at a considerable cost. Josephine felt a pang of guilt, lowering her head under William's disapproving gaze. She had been concerned about Jared not showing up and William's well-being, prompting her to inform their private physician, Jonathan. The doctor quickly approached the group and stared at Jared with a hostile look. "Mr. Chance, allow me to introduce my private physician, Jonathan Watson, a fellow of the medical college," William awkwardly introduced to Jared. Jonathan offered a dignified nod, his gaze subtly condescending as he regarded Jared. He had always served as William's personal doctor and was summoned whenever William experienced health issues. Hence, he couldn't believe William was now seeking help from another doctor right in front of him. This situation left him quite displeased. Thinking quickly, he decided to sow discord by inquiring, “Jared, while you've mentioned the issues Ms. Sullivan has, it's possible you just got lucky. Are you truly capable of curing Mr. Sullivan's illness?” Before Jared could respond, William furrowed his brows and said, “Dr. Watson, Jared is my honored guest today. I don't want any conflicts to arise.” Jonathan's countenance froze, but he pressed on. “Mr. Sullivan, I've served as your doctor for a considerable duration. Your health is of paramount importance, so I feel obligated to speak frankly, even if the truth may be uncomfortable to hear.” With that, he shifted his gaze to Jared, a challenging undertone in his voice as he proposed, “I've already devised a treatment plan for Mr. Sullivan. Are you willing to let me take action first?” Is Dr. Watson challenging Jared? Everyone turned to look at Jared. Jared remained composed as he gazed at William. The latter frowned, seemingly in deep thought. It was clear to Jared that William wanted to benefit from both sides. Thus, Jared smiled and said, “Please go ahead.” “All right!” A menacing glint flashed across Jonathan's eyes. With that, the group made their way to William's private room. As William reclined, Jonathan retrieved a black pill from his medical kit and handed it to William, who swallowed it without hesitation. Jared watched the pill with a contemplative expression. Jonathan then took out a bag of silver needles. Clearly, he was about to perform acupuncture on William. He plucked one needle out, ready to plunge it into the acupoint at the lower part of William's chest. “Hold on!” Jared suddenly exclaimed. “Mr. Chance, what's the matter?” William and Josephine both looked at him, puzzled. Jared fixed his gaze on Jonathan, his tone calm but probing. “Are you absolutely certain about going through with this? Can you assure me that your intention is to help him and not cause harm?”