Chapter 331
Amanda Gonzales believed that, as a mother, her most important duty was to protect her daughter-no matter what. She couldn’t let anything, or anyone, hurt Ann.
Not even for a second.
Not even Caitlin Kensington could lay a finger on Ann Templeton. Not now.
“Mom, I know Freya’s a doctor, but she’s not a surgeon! Ann’s really hurt-she needs a specialist. We have to wait for someone qualified!” Amanda insisted, her voice sharp with worry.
The Gonzales family did have a family doctor, but it was the holidays, and Keira had given Dr. Waldo Barrett some much-needed time off, especially since Caitlin was also medically trained. As a result, Dr. Barrett wasn’t around.
“Amanda! What are you saying? Do you really think Freya would hurt Ann? If you keep refusing her help, something terrible could happen!” Keira was adamant, her trust in Caitlin unwavering.
Caitlin had said Ann’s condition was dangerous, that she needed immediate intervention. That was enough for Keira—her granddaughter needed help now. Tears welled up in Amanda’s eyes. “Mom, I know you and Freya mean well. But we’ve already called an ambulance. Let’s just wait for the paramedics p>
At this point, Amanda trusted no one but the emergency medics.
Seeing Amanda’s stubbornness, Caitlin set aside her urge to help, deciding instead to respect Amanda’s wishes. She turned to Keira with a calm resolve. “Grandma, if Aunt Amanda doesn’t trust me, then it’s not my place to interfere.” She was a doctor, but even doctors had to respect a patient-or their guardian’s— wishes.
Amanda looked at Caitlin, her voice trembling. “Freya, it’s not that I don’t trust you, please don’t take it that way. I just want to wait for a real surgeon. Ann’s my only daughter. I can’t take that risk p>
Ambulances always arrived quickly. Amanda refused to believe that in a handful of minutes, Ann’s life could be in real danger or she could end up crippled. Caitlin was just trying to scare her.
Since Amanda was so insistent, Caitlin didn’t argue. “Aunt Amanda, as long as you’re sure. I’ve done everything I can p>
She had offered her help and made her case—there was nothing more she could do.
Keira, on the other hand, was beside herself with worry. “Amanda! Are you really going to stand by and watch if Ann ends up permanently injured or worse p>
Keira had only one daughter, and Ann was her only granddaughter. As their matriarch, she was terrified for Ann.
Caitlin was confident she could save Ann, but Amanda just wouldn’t allow it!
“Mom, please! I know Freya’s skilled, but Ann’s injuries are serious. Freya should know that if she tries anything, it could make things worse!” Amanda protested.
Keira wished she could tell Caitlin to help Ann anyway, but she had no right. If something went wrong, Amanda’s blame would fall on her—and maybe even on Caitlin. No one could guarantee a perfect outcome.
Keira threw up her hands in defeat. “Fine, Amanda. But don’t come to regret this. If Ann’s life is in danger or she ends up disabled, that’s on you p>
Amanda’s gaze was unyielding. “Don’t worry, Mom. I’m the one refusing Freya’s help. Whatever happens, I’ll bear the consequences. I’ll never regret this p>
As if she’d ever regret keeping Caitlin away from Ann.
With nothing more to say, Keira fell into a heavy silence.