Chapter 25  Andrew’s straightforwardness made Francesca scoff. She mocked, “You didn’t even bot greet me first? You’re so unsophisticated.  Despite her annoyance, she slid an elegant box across the table to Andrew. He opened it, confirming the presence of a twisted root nestled on silk, then stood to leave.  to  “Wait,” Francesca called out. “You’ve got what you wanted. When are you going to treat me?”  Andrew replied frankly, “Just set a time. But I should warn you about the treatment. I’ll need to lift your dress.”  Francesca froze. “Lift my dress? What do you mean?”  Andrew explained calmly, “Your condition isn’t ordinary. It’s more severe, which I’m sure you’re aware of.”  Francesca’s face flushed as she realized the implications, and anger.  her gaze a mix of embarrassment  Ignoring her reaction, Andrew continued, “To ensure a complete cure, I’ll need to perform a minimally invasive procedure on the… affected area. Understand?”  Francesca gritted her teeth.“That’s hardly appropriate between a man and a woman, don’t you think?”  Andrew frowned. “To a medical practitioner, there’s no distinction between male and female patients. You’re a doctor yourself. How can you not understand this?”  Francesca was speechless, but the thought of Andrew touching her, especially in such a sensitive area, was uncomfortable.  Andrew’s expression softened slightly. “Don’t worry. I’ll be blindfolded and won’t actually touch your body.” 1  Hearing this, Francesca sighed in relief, though still feeling incredibly embarrassed. Just then, the club manager clapped for attention.  “Ladies and gentlemen, I know you’ve all been curious about the identity of our Oakridge Club’s mysterious owner. Well, today’s your lucky day. He’s here and would like to treat everyone to a drink and make your acquaintance.  The room erupted in applause. Those sitting in this club were all wealthy and influential people, and they all started chattering excitedly.  “Finally, we’ll see who owns this place! I wonder which Jayrodale bigshot it is?”  It’s got to be someone from one of the top families, at least.”  “No way, I heard it’s one of the four crime lords of Jayrodale.”  +25 BONUS  Chapter 25  Francesca, holding her wine glass, looked intrigued. “The owner of Oakridge Club has always been a mystery in Jayrodale. Given the club’s impeccable reputation, it’s quite an honor to finally meet him.”  Andrew was uninterested and had planned to leave after getting the Morlic Root. However, with the crowd blocking the exit, he had no choice but to wait. Amid thunderous applause, a couple walked arm–in–arm on a red carpet.  The man wore an expensive suit, looking handsome and confident with a charming smile. Meanwhile, the woman glided in a floor–length white dress, her beauty almost otherworldly. The club manager announced enthusiastically, “Allow me to introduce our club owner, Mr. Harvey Weller!”  The crowd went wild with excitement and admiration.  “Wow, they’re gorgeous! What a power couple!”  “Holy crap,  Mr. Weller owns this place? No wonder it’s so high–end!”  “Mr. Weller’s making quite an entrance fresh from his return! And that stunning woman must be his fiancée, Christina Stevens, the CEO of Stevens Corporation!”  As the crowd surged forward to greet the couple, Francesca glanced at Andrew with a sly smile. “So, Dr. Lloyd, what are your thoughts on this unexpected turn of events?”