Chapter 96

Paisley dropped Serena and Maria off, grabbed her gear, and was about to leave when Jonathan’s text buzzed. “Joruthan?” she frowned. This hour? She’d specifically told him to make his meds last. Opening the message, her frown deepened: "Paisy, got a minute? Tricky patient. Could you swing by?"

Seriously? Jonathan stumped? Paisley pocketed the phone. She was going to Harrowdell anyway.

"Paisy, wait!" Maria hurried after, slipping snacks into Paisley’s bag. "Eat something!"

Paisley's heart warmed. "Thanks, Maria. I will."

Maria smiled. "Go on. Rena's fine."

At Harrowdell, after briefing the Vanderbilts, Jonathan and Charles headed to the consultation room. Marissa called out, "Mr. Hansen, when's your mentor arriving? Should I send a car?"

Charles looked startled. "She's not old! She'd be furious!"

Marissa apologized profusely.

"No worries," Charles said, checking his watch. "She'll be a while. She'll let me know."

Once Charles left, Kayla rolled her eyes. "What's the deal with his mentor? So touchy about age!"

"Anyone who taught him has to be ancient!" Lauren strolled over. "More talent, more quirks. It's a thing."

"Enough!" Reginald’s stern voice silenced them. "Stop speculating!"

Lauren and Kayla fell silent. Reginald turned to Marissa, gratitude evident. "Marissa, thank you."

"Seriously," Lauren chimed in, "if you hadn't brought Mr. Hansen in…"

The Vanderbilts echoed their thanks. Marissa, secretly pleased, kept her expression humble. "It's the least I could do. I'm praying Mr. Hansen's mentor can help him."

Tears welled in her eyes as she gazed at Paul. Her display of concern was contagious, plunging everyone into worried silence.

No one left until they had news about Paul. They camped out in the VIP wing's waiting area. Hours passed; exhaustion set in.

Marissa sniffled. "You guys must be exhausted. Let me get some food and drinks."

Lauren, usually the hostess, smiled. "You're so thoughtful!"

This was the scene Paisley walked into.