Chapter 76

The old town of Rivenesco was vibrant. In the early morning, a long queue stretched the length of the street, causing a traffic jam. Even by noon, the crowd hadn't diminished.

After Simone finished negotiating a deal, she and Dustin got stuck in the resulting traffic.

"I heard a famous physician, recently returned from a major city, opened a clinic here," Simone marveled at the crowd. "I didn't expect such a throng! So many people are queuing just to see him" Dustin frowned. He'd heard about it a few days ago—a local of Rivenesco who'd become famous elsewhere and returned home. He quickly scanned the physician's website, identifying the doctor; the number of renowned physicians in the country was far fewer than in the West. This physician was, indeed, top-rated.

"Well, we're stuck," Simone said, smiling at Dustin. "Why don't I join the queue? I heard he specializes in gynecology, and I haven't been feeling well lately." Dustin glanced at her, noticing her mental fatigue from overwork.

"You don't need to see him. I can check you," Dustin offered, smiling.

"Specific issues require specialists," Simone countered playfully. "Besides, you're not a doctor! What if he finds out I am sick?" She parked the car and pulled Dustin into the queue. The line was incredibly long; it took them a considerable time to reach the clinic.

Just as it was Simone's turn, someone cut in front.

"Dr. Parker, could you see my sister? She seems to have lost her memory," the woman said.

Dustin saw Delia, with Bella in tow, had jumped the queue. Dr. Dylan Parker hadn't noticed; he was discussing a prescription with his assistant.

"Doctor, those two cut in line. Aren't you going to do something?" Dustin protested.

"Hm?" Dylan's face darkened. "I saw nothing. Don't lie!"

Delia sneered. Seeing Simone and Dustin near the front, she'd deliberately cut in line; she intensely disliked Dustin.

"Even if you didn't see it, does that excuse ignoring it? Is this how you treat your patients?" Dustin's voice grew colder.

"How dare you cause trouble in my clinic?!" Dylan's assistant shouted. Dylan, increasingly annoyed, scowled. Delia watched with malicious glee.

"Dustin, Dr. Parker is a renowned physician in Rivenesco, former director of the best hospital in the North Border! Show some respect!" Delia yelled. "Forget it, let's just wait." Simone tugged at his sleeve.

Dustin, suppressing his anger, glared at Delia.

"Your name, and what brings you here?" Dylan asked, gesturing for Delia and Bella to sit.

"My sister suffered a traumatic event and seems to have lost her mind," Delia said, glaring at Dustin. Bella's condition was likely linked to Dustin.