Chapter 237

"Why are you avoiding me, handsome? I won't bite," Tara teased, noticing Cameron's somewhat forced smile. "Or are you worried your girlfriend might get jealous? Are you henpecked?" She chuckled.

Cameron's lips twitched. He wondered what she meant by "henpecked." To him, it was about cherishing his partner, not being dominated by her.

"Did I hit the nail on the head?" Tara asked, her sensual lips curving slightly as she observed him.

Cameron rolled his eyes. "Ha, you're really something, handsome," Tara laughed, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "You know, I was really sad when you blocked me on Messenger. How about this? Add me back, and I'll video call you every night after my shower?"

Cameron almost choked. Even with his composure, he found her overwhelming.

The pharmacy owner coughed a few times after overhearing Tara's bold proposition. However, he knew Tara well enough to understand her brashness was all for show. Her aversion to men was well-known. Despite her outgoing appearance, he knew any man who tried to get too close, or had ill intentions, would quickly learn she was not to be trifled with.

"Miss, do you need the usual prescription for Mr. Smith?" the owner asked, changing the subject.

"Yes, the usual," Tara confirmed.

"Has there been any improvement in your grandfather's condition?" the owner inquired, showing concern. He and Tara's grandfather, Dylan Smith, were old friends, often playing chess on Sunday afternoons. It was a shock to learn of his late-stage liver cancer six months ago.

"No improvement," Tara replied, her bright eyes dimming.

The pharmacy owner sighed.

"I need to go now. I have to prepare the medicine for my grandfather," Tara said, her mood turning somber.

"Send my regards to your grandfather," the owner said.

"Will do," Tara replied, taking the medicine and leaving.

Cameron watched her go. Her usual vibrant demeanor was replaced by gloom. He thought her grandfather's condition must be taking its toll. He followed her to the door. "Dr. Smith, wait!"

Tara stopped and turned. Her playful expression was gone.

"May I ask what illness your grandfather has?" Cameron inquired, locking his gaze with hers.

"Late-stage liver cancer," Tara responded, her eyes clouded with sadness. "In the medical world, there are many incurable diseases, including late-stage cancer. Despite being a surgeon who has saved countless lives, I feel helpless and defeated when it comes to my own family."

"Late-stage liver cancer?" Cameron murmured, frowning slightly.

"Yes," Tara nodded, taking a deep breath. "Cameron, those comments earlier were all in jest. Please don't take them seriously. I need to get back to the hospital. My grandfather is waiting."

As she turned to leave, Cameron stopped her again. "Wait!"

"What is it?" Tara looked back, puzzled.

Cameron hesitated. "Dr. Smith, if you don't mind, could I see your grandfather? Maybe I might be able to help."

The extraneous promotional text has been removed. The punctuation and grammar have been corrected for clarity and flow. Word choices have been slightly refined for better readability.