Chapter 3 See For Yourselves

With a sense of despair, Cassandra lowered her head. “I... I have nowhere to go.” She yearned to return to her hometown, but her grandparents who adored her had long since passed away. Even if she were to return, there would only be a dilapidated, drafty old house waiting for her. After a moment of contemplation, Hansel said, “Your eyes are still not healed. I'll take you back to the hospital.” “I-It's fine...” Cassandra hastily said. “I've already cost you too much money, and besides, my eyes can't be cured.” “Says who?” Hansel's voice was cold. Cassandra's face turned pale and she dared not speak. Only then did Hansel realize that he had been too harsh earlier. He was a seasoned businessman, his aura honed by years of ruthless efficiency and icy determination. His intimidating presence wasn't something a young girl could withstand. “Don't worry, I'll arrange for the best doctor to treat your eyes.” Cassandra was somewhat moved. She had nowhere else to go anyway, so she figured she might as well stick with the person before her. There could be a chance to regain her eyesight. “Thank you, thank you, sir. I'll go with you.” Hearing that, Hansel couldn't help but smile in resignation. Sir? Do I look that old? Right, she can't see at the moment. She has no idea what I look like. “Why did you call me 'sir'?” Holding onto her backpack strap, Cassandra explained in a soft voice, “Because... Because you're so tall.” When he stood in front of her earlier, he had shielded her from the wind. The corner of Hansel's mouth lifted unconsciously. She's interesting. “Get in the car,” Hansel instructed, gently taking her hand and guiding her. “I'll take you back to the hospital.” His primary worry was that she might not see clearly and could accidentally bump into or trip over something. He wouldn't know how to explain it to his grandmother if that were to happen. This sight left the assistant and the driver dumbfounded. When did Mr. Fitzgerald become so approachable? Inviting the young girl into the car is one thing, but holding her hand is quite another. If the socialites from the capital see this, won't they be so jealous? Cassandra rarely took car rides. As soon as she settled into the vehicle, she noticed a faint scent of agarwood. The genuine leather seat was as soft as a cloud, making sitting on it incredibly comfortable. She sat cautiously off to the side, motionless as a statue. “What are you thinking about?” Hansel couldn't help but ask. Cassandra timidly asked, “Sir, isn't this car quite expensive? I'm afraid I won't be able to afford it if I damage it.” A flicker of surprise quickly crossed Hansel's eyes. “Don't worry, it's not expensive. I won't make you pay for it.” Cassandra let out a sigh of relief. She was completely oblivious to the fact that the car she was currently riding in was a rare, limited edition model, worth a staggering nine-figure sum. Acquiring this car required far more than mere wealth. One also needed to hold considerable influence in the business world in order to qualify for its purchase. Cassandra's day had been a whirlwind of activity, and coupled with her still-recovering health, exhaustion quickly overtook her. Oblivious, she leaned against what she thought was a pillow, quickly drifting off to sleep. The pillow was so warm and comfortable, its only flaw was that it was too firm. For the first time in his life, Hansel felt the unexpected weight of someone sleeping against him. His body stiffened. His face turned cold as he detachedly pushed her away. Poor Cassandra could only lean against the car window to catch some sleep. From the information Hansel had gathered, Cassandra had just turned twenty, but she appeared more like a high school student. Years of heavy chores, coupled with frequent scoldings and beatings, had deprived her of both proper nourishment and a healthy physique, leaving her thin and frail. Was it a mere coincidence that she saved Grandma, or was she bribed by someone? Could someone truly be so naive that they would sacrifice their eyesight to save a complete stranger, and feel no regret or resentment afterward? Cassandra returned to her private ward. Hansel called his best friend, Lucas Chancey. “Assign someone to watch her for me. If you let her get away again, you can say goodbye to your current project.” The Chancey family owned the private hospital, renowned nationwide for its medical standards. However, the exorbitant cost of treatment would leave anyone speechless; it certainly wasn't a place for the average person. “Mr. Fitzgerald, rest assured,” Lucas said nonchalantly with a cigarette hanging from his lips. “Even if I were to lose myself, I wouldn't let anything happen to your precious darling.” “Watch your mouth,” Hansel said icily. “Don't worry, I'll certainly keep your secret safe.” After making his promise, he barely hung up the phone before announcing in his childhood friends' group chat: Mr. Fitzgerald has finally taken an interest in someone! Someone replied: What are you dreaming about, Lucas? Hansel has been on his own for years, never showing even the slightest interest in women. Do you really think he's interested now? I even wonder if there's something physically wrong with him. At twenty-nine, he still shows no interest in women. Maybe he has different preferences? Do you think I have a shot? Lucas: I'm telling the truth. The person Mr. Fitzgerald holds dear fell ill and is staying at my family's hospital. You can go see for yourselves if you don't believe me.