Chapter 146

It was 8:00 p.m. Gilmore, his parents, sister, and Gerald drove a Mercedes to Field Manor. Denton, leaning on a cane, stood at the entrance to welcome them. Claire and her parents were also present. Denton warmly welcomed them into the manor, where a sumptuous dinner awaited in the dining room.

"Please sit down, everyone!" Denton said with a warm smile, a departure from his usual dignified demeanor. He seemed like an ordinary, amiable old man. Gilmore and his family sat down. Servants poured wine for everyone.

Denton looked at Gilmore and said happily, "Gilmore, I didn't expect you to be so talented! You turned Evermore Diner into the number one restaurant brand in Oakhaven. Let me propose a toast to you!" He raised his glass.

Gilmore was surprised and slightly abashed. He quickly raised his glass, saying, "Mr. Carter, it's all thanks to Claire's superb management."

Denton smiled. "Claire told me about the innovative natural healthcare concept—a future trend in the food and beverage industry. She said you gave her that suggestion, helping her develop new strategies. Otherwise, she wouldn't be where she is today. She also told me how you foiled Benjamin's scheme to destroy Evermore Diner. You're the greatest contributor to its success."

Gilmore was speechless. He possessed the "God's Eye," allowing him to see past and future events, but he couldn't reveal this. He simply raised his glass, saying, "I'm flattered, sir. Claire and I founded Evermore Diner together. I'm glad I could contribute."

Denton nodded approvingly, pleased by Gilmore's humility. Thinking of Claire's future marriage to Gilmore, he felt relieved. They clinked glasses and drank. The evening continued with toasts, wine, and conversation. After dinner, they moved to the living room.

Chapter 147

The open house was for everyone. A fireside chat later, Claire told Gilmore, "Five days from now, there's a Tenors' Society dance in Tamen. Christopher and Miranda will take you, introducing you to key figures and members."

Claire's brother, Christopher, asked, "Father, aren't you going to the party?"

Denton replied with a smile, "Our family's chip company is thriving under your management, and Evermore Group, founded by Claire and Gilmore, is the biggest restaurant company in Oakhaven. You're all doing great. I'm very proud. Go and enjoy yourselves." He added, "Besides, my leg has been hurting lately, making it difficult to get around."

Christopher and his wife had indeed managed their family's chip company well, and Claire had succeeded in her ventures. Denton could retire, handing over the family businesses. They said nothing further; they knew his leg pain recurred annually and was unbearable.

"I'll invite Old Mr. Powell to check your leg," Christopher said with concern. "He's a renowned doctor in Oakhaven."

Denton waved his hand. "No need. My leg has been like this for decades, causing excruciating pain every year. I've seen many doctors, but no one could cure me. Even Mr. Powell wouldn't be able to help."

"Mr. Carter, let me try," Gilmore said confidently, attracting everyone's attention.

They were stunned. Denton smiled. "Thank you for your kindness. But even Hippocrates couldn't cure this leg, let alone you." He appreciated Gilmore's offer, but doubted the young man could cure his decades-old ailment.

Gilmore stood, walking to Denton. "Mr. Carter, I'm a medical student at Oakhaven University, majoring in dry needling, which improves blood circulation and treats chronic diseases. How can you know it won't work without trying?"

Denton was surprised. Famous doctors had failed; Gilmore's confidence was unexpected. He smiled, thinking Gilmore was too young to understand the difficulty, but decided to give him a chance.

Chapter 148

Not wanting to hurt Gilmore's feelings, Denton rolled up his trouser leg to his knee. "Since this miracle worker from Oakhaven University thinks he can cure my decades-old pain, let him try! I'm eager to be rid of this pain."

Christopher, his wife, Harlan, his wife, Claire, and Gerald stared in astonishment. They doubted Gilmore's ability, considering he was an undergraduate student.

Harlan rebuked his son, "Gilmore, don't cause trouble. You're only a student. How can you treat this?" He apologized to Denton, "Mr. Carter, Gilmore is young and inexperienced. Please forgive him."

Gilmore insisted, "Dad, I'm not causing trouble. I must cure Mr. Carter's leg today."

Harlan was stunned. He wondered if Gilmore could actually cure it. Denton comforted him, "Don't worry, Mr. Reed. My leg is crippled anyway. Let's consider this a last resort."