Chapter 15

"Dr. Archer acted differently after seeing the people outside the other ward," Mike explained to Elisa. "They're from the Curtis family. Their daughter was severely beaten and is in surgery."

Elisa's expression darkened. "Dr. Archer's business is our business—the Rivas family's business. Mike, find out what's going on. If necessary, we'll intervene."

Mike nodded. "Understood. I'll handle it." He left the ward swiftly.

Inside, Kyle looked down at the unconscious Elliot. His voice was soft but steady. "Mr. Rivas, you've lived a good life. We're going to challenge the Grim Reaper. You'd better back me up on this."

He took a deep breath. "At the very least, I'll buy you three to five more years. Enough time to enjoy the peace you deserve."

Kyle's hands moved with precision as he selected golden acupuncture needles. He delicately manipulated one and flicked it toward an acupuncture point on Elliot's body.

All twelve needles were placed accurately in under twenty seconds.

Beads of sweat formed on Kyle's forehead. This wasn't easy—it required speed and unparalleled precision. Each needle had to hit its target perfectly, using a method no one else could replicate.

He removed the needles from points where black blood had pooled and redirected them to other vital areas. Timing was crucial. This wasn't just healing; it was pulling someone back from the brink, defying nature.

After what seemed like an eternity, Kyle exhaled. Color returned to Elliot's ashen face. Kyle opened the ward door, and Elisa and Mike sprang up, worried.

"Dr. Archer, how is he? Are you okay? How's my dad?" Elisa asked, her voice shaky.

Leaning against the doorframe, Kyle lit a cigarette and waved dismissively. "He's stable. He'll wake up later today. But be prepared. He's got five years left, at most. I've bought him time, but that's all."

He continued, his tone firm but empathetic. "In these years, let him live peacefully. No more stress, no more burdens. Let him enjoy the life he's earned." Five years wasn't long, but for those who understood Elliot's condition, it was a miracle.

Elisa and Mike exchanged a look of disbelief. They knew how dire Elliot's situation had been—no one expected him to survive the night, let alone have years ahead.

Elisa's eyes filled with tears. "Dr. Archer, I don't know how to thank you. From now on, whatever you need, just ask. I'll be there!"

Kyle waved her off, flicking his cigarette away. "Just call me Kyle. Skip the titles. Go see your father; he'll need you." He turned and walked toward Faith's ward. His pace was steady, his expression unreadable.

Mike quickly followed.

"Why are you following me?" Kyle asked without turning.

"Mr. Archer," Mike said respectfully, "I've investigated the Curtis family situation while you treated Mr. Rivas. May I update you?" Kyle nodded. "Go ahead."

Faith had refused to reveal Kyle's name, even under duress. She had endured everything to protect him, knowing revealing his identity would endanger him. She considered him an ordinary man, a recently released ex-convict. Kyle wouldn't stand a chance against the Russo family. Even if the Russos didn't act directly, their allies would eliminate him to gain favor.

That's why Faith begged Kyle to leave Redonia.

But Faith, and everyone else, underestimated Kyle.

What was coming would be beyond their imagination. Those who harmed Faith were about to face Kyle's wrath—and it would be catastrophic.