Spoiled by Mr. Russell, Chapter 21

Anastasia spoke half-jokingly, “After spending two days with Austin, I’ve gone from distrusting him to… well, trusting him. We’re almost friends now.”

Austin chuckled. “Let me check your wrist pulse.”

Anastasia meekly offered her hand, and Austin took her pulse seriously. He knew he gained experience with each patient, no longer considering any ailment beneath his care. He saw it as his duty as a physician.

Anastasia, observing his focused expression, recalled their first encounter. She’d thought him a charlatan, unwilling to accept his treatment; Lily’s experience only solidified that initial impression. She silently recounted, He misdiagnosed my obesity and arrogantly refused to admit his mistake.

But the Austin who knelt before her, checking her pulse, was different. He seemed a responsible, professional doctor. Most importantly, he had cured her. Her health had noticeably improved.

She didn’t ask about his reconciliation with Lily, but sensed a fascinating story lay behind it.

“Your pulse is much more stable, but your body has suffered some damage from the virus. Nothing severe, but you'll need long-term treatment. However, I must adjust your prescription since you’ve already taken herbal medicine. It might be even more bitter. Is that alright with you?” Austin asked, withdrawing his hand.

He received no reply, noticing Anastasia lost in thought.

“Ms. Rollins? Excuse me, Ms. Rollins?” He called, waving his hand before her eyes.

Anastasia blinked, blushing. “Oh, that’s not a problem. But… what did you say?” Her question revealed she hadn’t heard him.

Amused, Austin rested his hands on his knees. “I said I need to adjust your prescription, adding ingredients based on your current condition.”

“What ingredients?” Anastasia asked, puzzled.

“Herbs to help you concentrate. You seem a little absent-minded,” Austin chuckled.

It was a lighthearted remark, but Anastasia blushed deeper. “I’m sorry, I… I zoned out.”

“It’s okay. I was just kidding. Don’t worry about it,” Austin said, waving it off. Her shy demeanor suggested he’d embarrassed her. “Anyway, you’re doing fine now and can leave soon. I need to go as well.” He stood.

“You’re leaving? Where to?” Anastasia asked, hastily grasping his hand.

Austin was taken aback.