Chapter 1

Mick and his mistress, Mona, were on their honeymoon when they got into a car accident, and the one handling their cases was Nydia.

When Nydia first saw the patient file, she thought it might just be a coincidence of names. As she approached the hospital room and heard the voices inside, a chilling realization struck her.

"Ms. Poole, our family photo is so beautiful. I want to hang it up at home," Ted said.

Mona replied softly, "Good boy, you're so sweet."

Then, Mick's deep voice interjected, "Ted, don't bother Ms. Poole. She needs to rest."

Nydia lowered her eyes. The records had shown that her husband and son only had minor injuries, but Mona had a fractured wrist and needed to be hospitalized. Nydia overheard an intern saying, "Mr. Wilcher and Mr. Ted don't need to stay, but because Ms. Poole needs to be hospitalized, he actually added two extra beds in the VIP room to stay with her."

The intern sighed and continued, "Mr. Wilcher is so devoted. There are rumors that Ms. Poole is his first love and that the child is hers. He waited six years for her to come back. It's such a touching story."

Nydia could only smile bitterly. She and Mick had been secretly married, with no engagement ring or wedding. For six years, she had served them like a maid, only to hear that Mr. Wilcher had waited six years for his first love to return.

She leaned against the wall as Ted continued, "Ms. Poole, you're the best. Mom only forces me to learn boring things. Only you take me out for burgers. I wish you were my mom."

Mona chuckled. "Don't say that. Mick, tell him to stop."

Mick's voice was neutral. "Children speak without thinking. I can control his mouth, but not his heart."

That loaded statement suddenly made Nydia see things clearly.

After taking a deep breath, she pushed the door open, fully prepared to accept the truth that she had lost her husband and son.

The first thing she saw was her son, Ted, standing by the bed, holding a family photo. Mona was beside Mick, cradling her son in her arms as though they were the picture of a loving family of three.

"Nydia," Mick said as his expression darkened. "What are you doing here?"

Ted took a few steps forward and blocked the bed with his small body. "Mom, what are you going to do?"

Mick and Ted looked at her with suspicion, as if she were an intruder in their paradise.

Her chest felt like it was bleeding, and the smell of blood filled her breath.

It turned out that cutting ties with years of love and family would hurt this much.

"I'm your attending doctor," she said, forcing herself to suppress her emotions and maintain composure.

Mick's wariness didn't fade. He coldly said, "I'll request a new doctor."

Then, as if trying to justify himself, he frowned and added, "Don't make a scene. I'm only worried that you'd be too busy to come home and cook for Ted."

Since she became a resident doctor, her workload had increased, and working overtime had become routine. By the time she got home, Mona would often already be there with takeout. Although the meals were greasy and overly salty, Ted and Mick seemed happy with them.

Ted even once said, "Mom, your cooking isn't even as good as dog food."

She had just come out of a grueling surgery that lasted over ten hours, only for the patient to pass away. Already emotionally shattered, she couldn't hold back her frustration and had an outburst.

That day, Mona cried bitterly, "It's all my fault. I thought Nydia was too busy, so I brought the food. I didn't expect to cause a misunderstanding. I'm so sorry."

In the end, Mick and Ted scolded her and took Mona out for a walk to calm down.

Nydia's heart gradually turned cold, and she calmly said, "Fine, apply as soon as possible. Otherwise, I'll need to write the medical orders."

Mick was surprised at how composed she was, and a flicker of unease flashed in his eyes.

Ted was too young to grasp the tension between adults. He clutched the family photo tightly and said, "Mom, you can't take my picture! I'm going to hang it at home!"

Mona quickly added, "Nydia, don't misunderstand. This was just a random photo taken at the amusement park."

However, Ted hugged the picture even tighter, as if afraid it would be snatched away.

Nydia's face was pale, but she still calmly said, 'Alright."

"If you don't let me hang it up, I'll..." Ted's sentence was cut off, as he suddenly froze upon hearing Nydia's voice. Confusion spread across his little face, but it quickly turned to joy. "You can't change your mind!"

She nodded. "Don't worry, I won't change my mind."

Mick's expression shifted slightly, as if he sensed something was off. Just as he was about to speak, Nydia glanced at her watch and said, "I'm off duty now. Please ensure the application to change doctors is submitted as soon as possible."

She paused and then turned to Mick. "Are you coming home tonight? I need to talk to you."

Mick hesitated. He initially planned to say "yes," but his suspicion grew. "We'll see," he said.

Nydia didn't get angry. She simply nodded. "I'll wait for you until 10:00 pm."

With that, she turned and left.

Behind her, Mick said in a tone that almost sounded like pity, "The driver is in the parking lot. He can take you home."

"No need, I'll take the tram," she replied without looking back.

As she closed the door, she could still hear Mona's completely unapologetic voice. "It's all my fault. Nydia must have misunderstood something. Mick, you should comfort her."

"Don't bother. She'll be fine by tomorrow," Mick replied.

Nydia's heart ached bitterly. Over the years, she had never stayed angry for more than three hours.

However, she wasn't angry this time. She had made up her mind.

When she got home, she packed up her things. She had come to Mick's family to help lift his spirits, but on the day he was ready to rebuild his life, she had already prepared to leave.

If it hadn't been for that day when they ate something bad at Starbrook Residence, they wouldn't have had Ted.

After her pregnancy, Mick seemed to accept her, and they had even shared a period of passion that made her believe she had warmed his heart. Now, she had woken up from that dream, only to be left with nothing but the wreckage.

She placed the divorce agreement on the dining table and wheeled her suitcase out the door at 10:00 pm sharp.

When Mick and Ted returned home at 1:00 am, they were so tired they went straight to bed.

In the dark, Mick didn't even notice that one side of the bed was empty.

The next morning, Mick woke up with a slight headache and went downstairs. Hearing the sounds of cooking from the kitchen, a smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. As expected, Nydia always managed to calm herself and still prepare a good meal for him.

After washing up, he saw the breakfast laid out on the table. He glanced toward the kitchen and casually said, "Make an extra portion, I'll take it for Mona."

"Huh? Mr. Wilcher, you didn't mention needing an extra portion," Helen called out from the kitchen. "I've already cleaned the pots and dishes."

Chapter 2

Mick frowned as he took a few bites of breakfast. It wasn't that the food was bad, but it didn't quite suit his taste.

Ted walked over, rubbing his eyes. As he glanced at the clock, his face immediately fell. "I'm going to be late for school! Why didn't you wake me up, Mom?"

Yet, there was no response.

His little face scrunched up in annoyance, and he hurried toward the kitchen, only to bump into Helen.

"Oh no, Mr. Ted! Watch where you're going. It's fine if I fall, but what if I hurt you?" Helen said.

"Where's my mom?" Ted asked.

"She's probably at work," she replied casually.

"Oh, great. If she's not here, it doesn't matter if I'm late! Helen, I want an egg sandwich," Ted ordered.

Helen smiled and replied, "Got it, Mr. Ted. I'll make it for you."

As Ted took a bite of the sandwich, he frowned. "Why does the egg taste weird?"

Helen came over and took a look at the egg sandwich. "Really? I just bought it at the supermarket this morning."

Ted pouted. "I want the kind we had before!"

"Well, I don't have the recipe. It was made by Mrs. Wilcher, and I don't know how to make it," Helen explained. "Mr. Ted, why aren't you eating?"

Helen looked at Mick in confusion as Ted sulked and stormed out.

Mick set down his fork, preparing to leave.

"Mr. Wilcher, wait!" Helen suddenly slapped her forehead. "There was a file on the table earlier."

She opened a nearby drawer and pulled out the file. As the housekeeper, she didn't dare look inside. She had no idea what it was.

Mick frowned. He rarely left documents outside his study, so it was likely Nydia's.

He picked up the folder, opened it, and his eyes immediately fell on the bold title: "Divorce Agreement."

…

For the first time since her marriage, Nydia woke up without an alarm.

When she opened her bedroom door, her best friend Lizzie had already left breakfast for her along with a note that read, "Nydia, everything will pass. The future is bright."

Next to it was a sandwich with a smiley face drawn in ketchup.

Warmth filled her heart, and she almost cried.

Nydia and Lizzie had both grown up as diligent girls in a small town. While Nydia was forced into becoming Mrs. Wilcher, Lizzie excelled in her career, rising to the position of senior executive with an annual income in the tens of millions. Despite their vastly different paths, their friendship remained as strong as ever.

After finishing breakfast, Nydia's phone buzzed. Ted's teacher, Lindsey Thompson, said, "Mrs. Wilcher, Ted was late to school today. We noticed you didn't drop him off and wanted to check in."

Nydia casually replied, "Ms. Thompson, Mr. Wilcher and I are going through a divorce. From now on, please contact him about such matters. My apologies."

Lindsey hesitated before saying, "But you're Ted's mother…"

Nydia replied coldly, "He'll probably have a new mom soon."

Lindsey fell silent, then awkwardly ended the call.

Yet, Nydia felt unbothered. She had already steeled herself for the consequences of her decision to let go.

After the morning meeting, Nydia stepped out of her office and was immediately pulled into the stairwell. Her heart skipped a beat, and just as she was about to call for help, the familiar scent of cedar filled the air, and she sighed in relief.

"What are you doing?" she snapped, frowning as she shook Mick's hand off her arm.

Mick's face was dark with anger. "The divorce agreement!"

Nydia understood immediately. "Ah, so you went home last night."

Mick looked slightly uncomfortable.

She had told him she would wait until 10:00 pm last night, but he had brushed it off as an empty threat. After all, no matter how late he came home, she was always there waiting.

If he had been drinking, she would even stay up to make him something for his hangover.

"Why do you want a divorce?" he asked.

"Don't you know why?" she retorted.

Mick faltered briefly but quickly let out a cold laugh. "Is it really just because of that family photo?"

Nydia froze for a moment.

Nydia was momentarily stunned. To him, the crack in their marriage was merely about a family photo.

She coldly said, "Yes, it's because of that photo."

Mick gritted his teeth, finding her unreasonable. "Mona only suggested taking Ted out to relax because he was stressed from extracurriculars. She was thinking about Ted's well-being. That photo was just a mistake by the photographer. What are you making such a fuss about?"

Nydia suddenly felt drained. She had tried to tell Mick countless times that Ted could relax, but only after finishing his schoolwork. Over the years, whenever she took Ted out to play, Mick never came along. At first, he would dismiss her concerns, but later, their talks always ended in arguments.

Mick probably remembered all those past disagreements. "I think you just don't want Ted to have fun with Mona."

Nydia took a deep breath. "So, I've made it clear in the agreement—I won't fight for custody of Ted. I'll let you have your perfect family of three."

In fact, she had decided to divorce a week ago.

It was her mother-in-law Laurel Patton's birthday, and they were hosting a gathering of high-profile guests. However, one of her colleagues was injured and couldn't perform surgery, so she had to step in. The operation lasted eight hours, and by the time she finally got home, the banquet was already in full swing.

When Laurel saw her, her expression soured. "Why are you here?"

At that moment, Nydia didn't even know how to answer. For six years, she had silently endured everything without ever fighting back. All she could do was hand over the pearl necklace she had prepared.

Laurel's face darkened further. "I've already received a better quality Talorian pearl necklace. You can keep this one."

It was at that moment that Mona came over, linking arms with Laurel with a look of apology. "I'm sorry, Nydia. I didn't know you were giving her a pearl necklace too."

Nydia didn't pay much attention, as she was used to being overlooked. However, Mona's seemingly innocent remark made it seem as though Nydia had wronged her.

Mick couldn't stand it anymore and snapped, "What does this have to do with you? She's acting all mysterious with her gift—who knows what she's giving?"

Since Nydia was publicly rebuked, she felt humiliated, her face turning pale. Mona immediately burst into tears. "I shouldn't have come. I've disturbed your family."

However, Laurel firmly interjected, "Nonsense! You're closer to me than my own daughter. If you didn't come to see me, I'd be upset!"

"I was worried Nydia might be upset, I—" Mona began.

Mick frowned, his face darkening as he glared at her. "If you're not feeling well, you should stay in the hospital. Why come back here?"

Just as Nydia was about to explain herself, Ted suddenly ran over and wrapped his arms around Mona's leg. "Ms. Poole, don't go! Mommy should leave instead. She's so annoying."

At that moment, Nydia felt as if her heart had shattered. The pain was so intense that she couldn't react. She hadn't said anything or done anything, yet she was being treated like a villain.

After a long silence, she didn't cry out like she used to or seek Mick's help. Instead, she clenched her fists and coldly said, "Ms. Poole, don't leave. If anyone should go, it should be me."

Chapter 3

"Give up?" Mick seemed to find it funny. "It seems you're still jealous. Fine, if you're jealous of me. But are you upset over Ted's innocent words too?"

Nydia's expression grew cold. "I'm here to talk about a divorce. Why are you avoiding it? Are you afraid?"

Mick was momentarily stunned, and then his anger flared. "Do you think you can still thrive in the hospital after leaving me?"

Nydia continued, "No matter how strong the rope, it can't hold a dog that wants to run. To avoid getting hurt later, divorce is just a necessary step."

"You dare insult me!" Mick grabbed her chin tightly. "Nydia, you've grown bold."

Nydia sneered. "So, are we getting a divorce or not?"

"Don't regret it," Mick said.

Nydia chuckled. "I only regret not leaving earlier."

Mick's jaw clenched so tightly that his back teeth almost ground together, and he angrily shoved her away. "Fine. I'll be waiting for you at the courthouse this afternoon!"

With that, he turned and stormed off.

In the past, Mick had left her countless times. Each time, it tore at her heart. Eventually, she was left feeling nothing but numb indifference.

Now, all she felt was relief. The air felt so much fresher without that toxic Mick.

She couldn't help but laugh.

Then, a thought struck her, and she quickly returned to the office. She double-checked the necessary documents for the divorce and requested leave from her boss.

…

Mick went straight to Mona's hospital room. Mona was receiving an IV drip, and though Ted wasn't there, his snacks were scattered beside her bed, and she occasionally nibbled on them.

"Mick, you're back already? Did you talk to Nydia?" Mona asked.

Mick's expression darkened.

"Didn't you say you wanted Nydia to be my attending doctor? Why hasn't she come?" Mona asked.

"Maybe she's busy with something. Should I go—" Mona paused, sensing the shift in the atmosphere. She cautiously added, "Nydia isn't still angry, is she?"

Mick coldly scoffed. "She's filing for divorce."

Mona's heart skipped a beat, but she feigned sadness. "It's all my fault. Mick, you can't agree to this. Go apologize to Nydia and tell her not to act impulsively."

Mick, who had originally planned to handle the situation coldly, now felt a surge of irritation.

"Impulsive? Let her see the consequences of acting on impulse!" Mick spat. "Even if she changes her mind and begs me to stay, I won't agree."

Mona buried her face in her hands and cried. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have come back."

Mick softened his tone when he saw her tears. "Our problems have nothing to do with you. Don't overthink it."

Mona shook her head, refusing to accept his comfort. "Can't you take me with you? I want to help persuade Nydia," she pleaded.

Mick hesitated at her suggestion. Thinking of how cold Nydia had been earlier, he reluctantly agreed. "Fine."

At 3:00 pm, Nydia had been waiting outside the courthouse for half an hour. Her anxiety grew with each passing minute. She feared Mick might change his mind and back out at the last moment.

Just as she was about to call him, a familiar luxury car pulled up beside her. Mick stepped out with an unreadable expression. He didn't spare her a glance. Instead, he walked around to the other side of the car, opened the door, and helped Mona out.

Soon after, Ted also climbed out of the car. Mick had picked him up earlier.

With a pompous tone, Mick said, "Since we're getting a divorce, Ted has the right to know."

He showed no concern about the potential emotional impact on Ted.

Ted fearfully clung to Mick's hand. "Daddy, I don't want to stay with Mommy. I want to stay with you!"

Hearing this, Nydia felt a strange sense of relief.

"Don't worry, I'm not asking for custody," she replied.

Ted's eyes widened in shock, and a brief flash of panic crossed his small face.

Mona quickly pulled Ted behind her and pleaded, "Nydia, don't make this harder than it has to be. Mick hasn't done anything to hurt you."

Nydia shot back, "Ms. Poole, do you hide under his bed every day to know so much?"

Mona froze, then tears began to stream down her face. "I..."

Mick's anger flared. "Nydia, that's enough! You want a divorce? Fine, but don't come crawling back to me later!"

Nydia didn't get angry. Instead, she sneered. "Fine, whoever regrets it is the fool."

Mick thought she was just putting on a brave face and would be the one crying soon enough. He ignored her, taking Ted inside the courthouse.

Mona walked slowly behind them. As she passed Nydia, her sweet demeanor was gone, replaced with a cold edge. "In the end, he still chose me."

Nydia nodded. "Yeah, a dog can't change its ways."

Mona's face darkened. "How dare you speak to me like that?"

Nydia glanced at her and scoffed. "My attitude depends on who I'm dealing with. You're a dog, so I'm treating you like one."

Mona sneered. "You're bold! Once you're divorced, I'll make sure you regret it!"

"Stop growling like that. You're not afraid of dogs, but I sure am," Nydia shot back.

Without another word, she entered the courthouse ahead of Mona.

Mona's face twisted with fury.

…

Divorce proceedings required mediation. As the mediator rambled on, Nydia found the constant talking irritating.

Mick noticed she kept her head lowered and assumed she was regretting her decision.

"If you just kneel now..." he began.

"Excuse me, could you take a break and just stamp the papers so we can leave?" Nydia cut him off, standing up to pour a glass of water for the staff.

The staff sighed. "Well, I wish you both a better future."

As the red stamp fell onto the papers, Mick's expression darkened.

Nydia really went all out this time.

At the final window, they submitted their documents. Since they had signed a prenuptial agreement, Nydia voluntarily gave up her share of the stocks and property, as well as custody of the child. She only asked for a 20 million dollar divorce settlement.

The staff double-checked everything several times.

Nydia thought everything was in order. Her monthly salary was over seven thousand dollars, and even if she worked tirelessly for six years, she wouldn't make 20 million dollars. This divorce was worth it.

"I'm good," she said, feeling a sense of liberation and excitement.

Mick glanced at her. Her smooth, porcelain skin had a healthy glow from a good night's sleep, making her look beautiful and refined. Her sharp eyes, with their dark pupils, gave off a soft but unapproachable vibe.

He unexpectedly recalled all their shared moments and her lively, beautiful past. A sense of unease stirred within him.

Before he could speak, the staff handed over the stamped documents. "There will be a 30-day cooling-off period. After that, you'll both need to come back to pick up the divorce certificate."

He froze.

It was finally over. He turned to Nydia, who was packing up with a smile. Yet, her face was as cold as ice.

"Are you happy about this?" he asked.

Nydia stopped pretending and sarcastically said, "I can't afford to be sad. I'm afraid you'll tell everyone I can't get over you. That would be a real loss for me."

Chapter 4

Mick's expression was so grim it seemed as though he could squeeze ink out of it.

Nydia, who usually submitted to everything, had never spoken to him like that before.

Suddenly, he felt like Nydia had become a completely different person. It shattered his previous understanding of her and left him feeling uneasy.

Mona approached, feigning concern. "Nydia, at least we have the 30-day cooling-off period. Otherwise, I'd be really worried."

She paused before adding, "Don't worry. I'll hire a caregiver and won't bother Mick anymore. Ted is a good kid. What he said earlier was just out of anger. Don't take it to heart."

Mick snapped back to reality.

He finally understood why Nydia seemed so fearless. It was all because of the 30-day cooling-off period. If she didn't show up by the end of it, this divorce wouldn't count.

His panic faded, replaced by nothing but disgust.

She hadn't learned anything worthwhile, but she sure knew how to play these petty games.

"Are you playing tricks on me? Fine, let's see it through to the end. Don't regret it when the cooling-off period is over!" Mick snapped.

Nydia almost laughed in frustration. "Fine. Whoever regrets it is the fool!"

She now hated the cooling-off period. If it weren't for that, she would be free by now.

She glanced at the three of them one last time. Ted thought she was going to take him, so he quickly hid behind Mona.

Nydia just gave them a mocking smile before turning to leave.

Mona hesitated and asked softly, "Mick, aren't you going to chase after her? Nydia's just throwing a tantrum. If you say a few kind words, she'll definitely come back with you. You're a man—just lower your pride a little."

Mick sneered. He wouldn't lower his pride to ask her back, especially since he hadn't done anything wrong.

"Chase after her? Ha! With her personality, she'll be crying and begging me to take her back within three days."

…

Back at the hospital, Nydia quickly immersed herself in work.

Her paper was almost finished, so she sent it over to Harlan.

Not long after, Harlan called her to his office.

Harlan was in his early 50s. He wore reading glasses, and his silver hair was tied back in a neat bun.

He greeted her with a kind expression. "This paper is excellent. It fits perfectly with the project I'm working on right now."

He sighed softly. "Too bad you have family commitments…"

"Mr. Neel," Nydia's eyes lit up. "Are you saying there's an opportunity for further study?"

Harlan nodded, removing his glasses to rub his eyes.

"It just happens to be in the area you've been researching, but it's in Kaverton. You're someone who's attached to home, so I'm afraid you might turn it down," he said with a hint of regret. "You've turned me down seven times. Only you, Nydia. If it were anyone else, I'd have told them off by now."

Nydia lowered her head in shame. In the past, she always focused on finishing work quickly so she could rush home to take care of Mick and Ted.

If Ted had any activities, she would have to find a colleague to cover for her last minute.

Her colleagues often said that she wouldn't last long as a doctor and would soon quit to become a full-time housewife.

In fact, she'd had the same thought.

In the end, all her genuine efforts were wasted.

"Mr. Neel, I want to go this time," she said.

"If you don't go, I was thinking of having you recommend someone else..." Harlan said, then paused in shock. He quickly stood up, pressing his hands on the desk. "Wait, you're actually saying you want to go?"

Nydia took a deep breath and nodded firmly. "Mr. Neel, I know I've let you down before by backing out, and I'm sure you're disappointed in me. Please trust me one last time—I'll make sure I do well."

Harlan was still in disbelief. "What about your husband and child if you go?"

Harlan only knew that Nydia was married, but she didn't know the specifics about her husband or son. She assumed that Nydia's husband or son might have a disability of some kind, which had been holding her back. Harlan worried that if Nydia left, the father and son wouldn't be able to care for themselves and might face serious danger.

After thinking it over, he said, "How about this? I'll help you find two caregivers to take care of your family, and you can focus on your studies and growth."

Nydia blinked in confusion. "Caregivers?"

Harlan noticed her stunned expression and said, "Nydia, you don't have to hide these things from me, and you don't need to be polite. I just want to see you succeed."

Nydia quickly waved her hand. "Mr. Neel, stop right there. Did you misunderstand something?"

Harlan thought she was just being overly proud, so his tone softened a little. "If your husband and child are sick, just take care of them. It's nothing to be ashamed of."

Nydia thought of what had happened at the city hall earlier. "They're not exactly mentally sharp."

Harlan's gaze turned even more sympathetic.

Nydia sighed. "Actually, I got divorced today."

Harlan was stunned. "Wait, what?"

Though a bit taken aback, Harlan quickly overcame the shock. After a brief pause, he smiled warmly. "Alright, no need to feel any pressure. Go home, pack your things, and head out tomorrow. Is that okay?"

"Of course!" Nydia's mood lifted instantly. "Thank you, Mr. Neel! I'll do my best and won't disappoint you!"

Harlan smiled with relief. "Good, make some progress and show those critics what you can do!"

"I'll make sure of it!" Nydia confidently said.

Harlan looked up in shock.

It could have been a trick of the light, but something about Nydia's smile seemed brighter, like a rose freshly bloomed.

…

The next day, Nydia boarded the plane smoothly with her luggage. The medical aid mission would last for half a month. After settling in, she began reviewing past case studies, hoping she could quickly adapt once she arrived.

About an hour after takeoff, a voice suddenly came over the intercom. "An emergency has occurred in the business class. If there are any doctors or nurses on board, please proceed to business class immediately."

Panic spread quickly through the cabin. Many passengers, who were unfamiliar with such situations, mistakenly thought something was wrong with the plane itself. The flight attendants hurried to reassure everyone.

Nydia unbuckled her seatbelt and stood up. "I'm a doctor. I can help."

The flight attendant's eyes lit up, and she immediately guided Nydia to business class.

The business class section was unlike any regular cabin. The atmosphere was tense. The men in black suits standing around had a dangerous aura, and their sharp glares seemed to warn that any wrong move could cost her life.

Nydia quickly averted her gaze and followed the attendant to the far end.

A child was lying on the floor, clutching his neck. His face was turning red, and he was struggling to breathe. Nydia was startled. Without waiting for an explanation, she rushed to his side.

She quickly knelt beside him, gently laying him flat on the floor. She sprayed something on his face, then lifted him and pressed her hands against his stomach.

Suddenly, a voice growled, "What are you doing? If you harm the young master, I'll have you pay with your life!"

Chapter 5

The same fierce bodyguard from earlier saw Nydia handling the child and immediately flew into a rage. His veins were practically popping out.

As his words fell, several more bodyguards rushed over, looking like they were ready to tear Nydia apart.

"Don't do anything reckless!"

A cold, sharp voice cut through the tension.

The bodyguards lowered their heads and moved aside.

Nydia turned toward the source of the voice.

The man was dressed in a simple black shirt, with the top three buttons undone. As he got closer, his shirt swayed, revealing a muscular frame. His tall, lean figure exuded an aloof air, and when his eyes met hers, there was no emotion in them. Only a black beaded bracelet on his wrist swayed slightly, making him seem even more mysterious.

She hesitated before asking, "Are you the child's father?"

The child's condition had stabilized, and it was now just a matter of rest and recovery, so she needed to give some medical advice.

The man shook his head.

She blinked in surprise. "Huh?"

"He's my nephew. Go ahead and explain his condition," he replied.

After a brief pause, possibly due to the earlier tension, he added, "Don't worry. I won't make things difficult for someone who helped."

Nydia sighed in relief.

After all the tension earlier, she had feared that things would escalate into something worse. Thankfully, this man seemed reasonable.

"It's acute pharyngitis. I suspect there might be a viral infection as well, so I recommend taking him to the hospital for further examination. He's stable for now, but make sure he gets plenty of rest. Also, avoid letting him cry or get too upset, as that could worsen his condition," she said.

Just as she finished speaking, the child opened his eyes. He sat up slowly and glanced at the man. Then, he looked at Nydia with wide, curious eyes.

The man noticed the child was awake and nodded slowly. "Thank you."

Nydia smiled softly. "I'm a doctor. It's my duty to help."

The man gave a small nod to his bodyguards, who immediately handed Nydia a black card.

"This is for your trouble," the man said, making it clear that refusing was not an option.

Nydia felt awkward. "May I ask how much is on the card?"

The bodyguard replied, "10 million dollars."

Nydia almost choked on the amount. "How much?"

The man frowned. "Is it not enough?"

Nydia quickly shook her head. She actually thought the amount was too generous.

"No, I just think my fee for helping the child shouldn't be so much," she said, emphasizing, "I'm a doctor. I don't accept any…"

"You misunderstood," the man suddenly interrupted her. "I just hope you can temporarily look after this child until the plane lands."

Nydia had originally planned to keep a close watch on the child to prevent another choking incident. Since the family had made the request, she nodded in agreement. "Alright."

Satisfied, the man signaled to his bodyguards and left. It seemed like he wasn't too concerned about the child's condition anymore.

He really seemed to have a carefree attitude.

Yet, Nydia remained focused on her responsibility. She checked the child's condition again. Thankfully, he was doing well. She breathed a sigh of relief, then moved toward the door.

The environment was calm and peaceful. Looking out the window at the thick clouds, Nydia felt a sudden sense of fulfillment.

Perhaps when she first boarded the plane, she was still feeling some withdrawal symptoms. However, after saving the child, she realized her own importance and the significance of her profession.

At that moment, she felt like her life had purpose.

Suddenly, she heard some rustling sounds behind her. It was like the little hamster Ted once wanted to keep.

She stiffened, and the sound stopped.

After a brief moment, the rustling started again. When she turned to check, the sound had disappeared. It was as if someone was testing her.

Nydia frowned, and just as she was about to turn back, a small hand gently grabbed her sleeve.

She instinctively looked down and met the gaze of a little boy.

A shy smile spread across his face, but it was clear he wasn't very good at it. His pale skin, long, curled eyelashes, and sparkling eyes were irresistibly cute, evoking a wave of compassion in Nydia.

Sensing her affection, the boy nuzzled his face against her hand.

"What's your name?" Nydia asked, gently rubbing his head.

He tilted his head and gave her a playful smile before grabbing her hand. "Norman Houle," he softly said.

Nydia smiled and shook his hand. "Hello, I'm Nydia Vega. I'm in charge of your treatment. You can call me Dr. Vega or Ms. Vega."

"Ms. Vega," Norman said.

Nydia nodded.

When Norman smiled, two adorable dimples appeared at the corners of his mouth. He was so cute that it almost made Nydia's heart melt.

The space seemed designed just for the child, with many toys scattered around. While keeping an eye on Norman's condition, Nydia also played with him. Thanks to her experience with Ted, handling the well-behaved Norman was easy.

Before long, Norman looked at her with admiration.

"Ms. Vega, you're amazing! You're even better than Uncle Eddie!"

Nydia smiled gently. "Well then, since you lost, it's time to take your medicine."

Norman was a boy of his word. He took the medicine without hesitation.

The plane began its descent, and a bodyguard came to escort Norman away. Though Nydia felt a bit reluctant, she smiled and waved goodbye to Norman.

She thought the incident was over and immediately threw herself into the medical aid work.

Three days later, after finishing her records and returning to her dorm, she saw a familiar bodyguard waiting downstairs, seemingly waiting for her.

Her heart skipped a beat.

"Seriously? I saved that child, and now you're going to make things difficult for me?"

The bodyguard was polite this time. "Ms. Vega, you misunderstood. Mr. Houle wants to see you. He hopes you'll give him the honor."

Nydia was surprised but also a bit worried. "Is there something wrong with Norman?"

The bodyguard's expression darkened slightly. "Ms. Vega, you should come with me to see for yourself."

Nydia was escorted to a place that looked like a castle. It had rock gardens and fountains, with lavish decor that exuded wealth. Everywhere she looked, the air seemed thick with the scent of money.

Nydia had no time to admire the scenery. She quickly followed the bodyguard inside the castle, then up to a room on the second floor. When she saw the situation inside, she froze.