Chapter 264

"I'm her husband," Nicolas said, striding forward. His cold aura caused the doctor's breath to catch. "Doctor, how is my wife?"

The doctor, accustomed to a wide range of patients, rarely encountered someone with Nicolas's imposing presence.

"Here's the critical illness notice. Please sign it, sir," the doctor said, drenched in cold sweat. "The patient's condition is critical. Her blood cells are failing, and she needs a bone marrow transplant. The hospital will do its best, but you need to contact direct relatives immediately."

Nicolas's pupils constricted, his breathing growing heavier. "Direct relatives?"

"Sir, this is the only way to save her. Are the patient's parents or siblings alive?" the doctor asked urgently.

The pen felt like a mountain in Nicolas's hand, hovering over the paper. The Rowland family would rejoice if Thea died; they wouldn't risk their interests to save her. Nicolas's mind raced. Joyce gritted her teeth. "I'll go all out. Even if I have to kidnap them, I'll bring that family here. Thea cannot die."

She moved toward the door. In the sterile hallway, Nicolas's voice cut through the air. "Miss Maddox, I want Thea to live more than you do. Kidnapping won't work."

For years, Nicolas had hoped to reconcile with Thea. He'd finally achieved that dream, yet she remained in danger. He wouldn't let the culprit escape, but Thea's survival was the priority.

This was the first time Nicolas's hand trembled as he held the pen. Facing the doctor, he said with serious, fearful urgency, "Please, whatever it takes, save her life. I just need Thea to live."

Joyce wept. As the operating room door closed, Nicolas instructed Darwin to search the global bone marrow registry. He then called Max.

Max was startled. "Mr. Hendrix, how may I assist you?" Even though Thea and Nicolas were close, Max remained respectfully cautious.

"Mr. Rowland," Nicolas's voice was icily cold. "I recall your interest in the amusement park bidding project in eastern Key Biscayne?"

Max's heart pounded. He'd faced numerous challenges from Rowland family shareholders, struggling to maintain his position. The family was declining; winning the bid could revive them. However, he doubted Nicolas's benevolence. Since Nicolas married Thea, the Rowlands had received no benefits from him.

Max cautiously smiled. "Mr. Hendrix, I am indeed interested. Any insider information you can share? We are family, especially for Thea's sake…"

Nicolas had no patience for pleasantries. "Bring your entire family to Silvercreek First Hospital. If they come, the project is yours."

Max was stunned by the unexpected offer. "Mr. Hendrix, why the hospital?"

"Thea was in an accident and needs bone marrow from direct relatives. Don't worry; it won't cost you your life. Mr. Rowland, you should know better than I how profitable this deal can be," Nicolas replied coldly.

Chapter 261

Nicolas knew the Rowland family wouldn't be swayed by emotion; only tangible benefits would motivate them.

Max didn't inquire about Thea's injuries. "Mr. Hendrix, rest assured. Thea is family. We must help."

At the Rowland mansion, after hanging up, Max was met by Ivy's eager gaze. "What did Nicolas say?"

She expected good news. News of Thea's accident had startled her. "I told Thea not to be so arrogant," Ivy said. "Now that she's in trouble…"

After initial excitement, Ivy feigned weakness. "Max, I'm getting old. Donating bone marrow would be taxing. The bidding project is important; why don't you take your siblings?" Ivy had recently passed a health check with flying colors, yet she pretended to be frail.

Max's expression hardened. "Mom, Nicolas means everyone must be there."

Duncan had no objections. He saw the Rowland Group as his own, believing its success would smooth his eventual takeover. Moreover, a successful bone marrow match was unlikely. Nicolas only required their presence, not donation.

Emmalie clenched her fists. "Max, my concert in Bangolware is soon. Going to the hospital might cause a postponement." What is Amelia doing? If she wanted to harm Thea, she should've ensured Thea's death. Yet she's keeping Thea alive, putting me at risk, Emmalie thought.

"Emmalie, what's wrong with you?" Max said impatiently, a first for him. "Your sister is in the hospital. Do you think your concert is more important? I'll have your agent cancel it. Everyone must go."

Duncan defended Emmalie. "Max, your dedication is commendable, but this tour is an opportunity Emmalie has worked for. Postponement is acceptable, but cancellation is not."

Emmalie felt defeated. No one would support her. She'd used every means to win favor, understanding their profit-driven nature. Though anxious, she forced a smile. "You're right. I'm selfish. Thea is most important." Once I'm at the hospital, I can escape, she thought.

Max drove them to the hospital. Upon arrival, the family was taken to the blood draw department.

Duncan noticed Emmalie's distress. "Emmalie, are you unwell?"

"I… I've been squeamish around blood since childhood. The sight of it reminds me of being kidnapped and beaten," Emmalie said, leaning on Duncan for support. I absolutely cannot be tested. If they draw my blood, everything will be ruined, she thought desperately. "Duncan, I'm scared. Please take me away."