Chapter 131
“You!” Mona’s fury flared. She stamped her foot, exclaiming, “She’s a liar who cheated people! Besides, maybe Father woke up on his own. Dr. Bates said there’s a twenty percent chance of that!”
“Mona!” Marsh interjected, exasperated. “How can you be so reckless as a medical student? Miss Wilson is willing to help; we owe her an apology!” His tone was firm.
Tears streamed down Mona’s face. “Brother, you’re biased!” she snorted, running off in tears.
Emma rolled her eyes discreetly. If not for Leroy, she would have confronted Mona directly. She restrained her anger, noting Liam’s displeasure. She squeezed his hand. “It’s fine. Mr. Hnasom and Mr. Quinn treated me well. Don’t worry about it.”
Liam’s expression softened at her concern. Since she wasn't pursuing the matter, he didn't press it.
After saying goodbye to Leroy and the others, Emma and Liam returned to Icovine Estate.
The next morning, a ringing phone jolted Emma awake. “Emma, are you leaving soon?”
“What?” Liam had kept her company late into the night, leaving her exhausted and soundly asleep. Ida had called three times before finally waking her. Emma realized, with a start, that her busy day treating Leroy had made her forget her prior arrangement with Ida and Lane to attend a summer camp interview. “I almost forgot! I’ll leave now!”
At Vark College, while Emma secured one of the coveted summer camp spots, the other went to Bob from Woodland High. The candidates were exceptional. Lane excelled in sports, holding a state championship title. Ida, though shy, possessed remarkable literary talent, winning numerous essay competitions and holding a government-certified youth achievement award. Both were exceptional students, hence their selection. They were the school's pride.
After the interview, Emma found Lane privately. Smiling, Emma said directly, “I know why you were tempted by Leroy’s check that day. You wanted to treat your grandfather, right?”
Lane was stunned, then bit her lip. “How…did you know?”
“Because I know you,” Emma replied, offering only half the truth. She understood Lane’s character; she wouldn’t be greedy. More importantly, she remembered Lane from her previous life. About a year later, Lane had applied for a job with a mysterious organization Emma worked for. Emma was surprised then, a young, inexperienced girl taking on such a role. Lane had failed the selection, but Emma remembered her motivation: the high pay, needed to treat her terminally ill grandfather.
Lane took a deep breath. “I’ve had no parents since childhood. Grandpa raised me. To support me, he picked trash every winter, even at minus thirty Fahrenheit, sweeping streets… He developed lung cancer. I received a full scholarship at Vark, but money is tight. My part-time job barely covers his medicine.” Tears flowed freely. “He was recently diagnosed with late-stage lung cancer… I know a cure might be impossible, but I want to give him the best care. I know I made a mistake that day… I shouldn't have been selfish.”
Emma sighed, remembering Lane's application a year later and the likely severe illness and delayed treatment due to lack of funds. She also remembered that, not long after her grandfather's death in her previous life, Lane had suffered a devastating blow and fallen seriously ill; she might even have died.
Emma patted Lane’s shoulder. “That’s why I’m here.” She produced a card. “There’s one hundred thousand dollars. Your grandfather’s illness can’t wait. I’ll visit him when I can.” Emma planned to personally treat Lane's grandfather, but wouldn't reveal that yet.
Lane was shocked. “How…how can I accept this? Absolutely not!”
Emma pursed her lips. “Don’t worry, it’s not a gift. I need you to do something for me—something reasonable, legal, and safe.”
Lane's voice trembled. “Really?”
“If you agree, I have a contract,” Emma said, producing a document. While Lane had failed the organization's screening previously due to lack of training, Emma recognized her exceptional physical capabilities. With proper training, Lane could become a valuable asset.
Lane, suppressing her excitement, signed immediately, bowing deeply. “Emma, I’ll never forget your kindness!”
Emma helped her up. “You’re a good seedling; don’t let yourself be buried. Use this money to treat your grandfather!”
“Thank you, thank you so much…” Lane whispered.