Chapter 93

Charles’s mention of his mentor silenced the room. Whispers of speculation rippled through the Vanderbilts. “Is she still practicing? She’d be ancient!” one murmured. Another added, “Charles is a legend; his mentor must be a god!”

Hope bloomed on the family’s faces. Marissa, comforting Kayla, blurted out the unspoken question: “Dr. Hansen, is your mentor still alive?”

Charles’s expression hardened. “Watch your words, young lady. My mentor is very much alive.”

Marissa’s heart plummeted. “I’m so sorry, Mr. Hansen! I didn’t mean to disrespect her.” She fidgeted, terrified by his anger.

Dominick intervened. “Mr. Hansen, could we meet your mentor? We’re running out of time for Grandfather.” His voice, thick with emotion, spoke of a lifetime’s loyalty to Paul.

Charles hesitated. He remembered a previous encounter: “Don’t bother me unless it’s important.” He muttered under his breath, “For someone so young…”

The others assumed his mentor was too old to help. Dominick, desperation etched on his face, pleaded, “Mr. Hansen, please. I’ll pay any price.”

Reginald echoed, “Name your price.”

Charles shook his head. “Money isn’t the issue. It’s…her.”

Jonathan urged, “At least try asking, Mr. Hansen.”

Charles, wrestling with his decision, finally conceded. “I’ll reach out, but I can’t promise anything.”

Marissa’s eyes shone. This success would solidify her position with the Vanderbilts.

As gratitude poured over Charles, he pulled out his phone. Then, a thought struck him. He gestured towards the door. “I’ll take this outside.”

He left the room, an awkward expression on his face. The Vanderbilts respectfully kept their distance, stealing anxious glances his way.

The call connected. The stern doctor vanished, replaced by a man with a warm smile, wrinkles crinkling around his eyes. The transformation was breathtaking. Hope flickered anew – perhaps there was a chance for Paul Vanderbilt after all.