Chapter 174
Chapter 174:
She offered the invitation out of politeness, not expecting him to accept. But he nodded without the slightest hesitation. “Sure p>
Rylie gave a slight nod in return. “Well… alright then p>
On the way, Rylie took a few calls, some from contacts in the community near the military compound, and one from Clive.
Under her care, Clive’s legs had shown significant improvement. Word of his recovery was spreading, and the call felt hesitant, almost awkward.
“Sorry to bother you, Dr. Owen,” Clive said. “But a few friends of mine with chronic illnesses are asking if they could come see you. They’ve been pestering me nonstop — I had to ask p>
Rylie paused in thought. “I’m really swamped right now. But you can go see my mentor. She treats patients at HaloFlow Pharmacy, and honestly, her skills are better than mine. She should be able to help them p>
Clive quickly noted the address. “Got it, got it. Thank you, Dr. Owen p>
The luxury car turned into a quiet alley near the pharmacy. Rylie and Brad stepped out, greeted warmly by locals along the way.
“Rylie, you’re back! I told Selah you were coming — she’s so happy, she’s slaughtering a chicken right now p>
Rylie responded with warmth, greeting familiar faces, while Brad followed, enduring the curious stares with grace.
As they entered the courtyard, Selah was seated outside, cleaning the chicken. Word of Rylie’s return had traveled fast.
Selah stood up, wiping her hands on her apron. Her smile was warm, though a subtle concern lingered in her eyes. “Oh, Rylie… and you brought a guest p>
Brad softened his usual military posture and greeted her politely.
Selah took one look at the tall, striking Brad and paused for a beat, clearly recognizing him. “Isn’t this p>
“He’s just a guest,” Rylie interjected quickly. “He’s joining us for dinner. Nothing more, so don’t overthink it p>
gⱯlnσν𝓮ℓs․cóm is your escape
Selah nodded. “I’ll prepare a few extra dishes, then p>
“There’s no need to go overboard,” Brad added. “Just a regular meal is fine p>
Rylie rolled up her sleeves and turned to him. “You’re the guest — go sit in the backyard living room until dinner’s ready p>
She took the knife from Selah, crouched down, and began preparing the chicken herself. Her movements were practiced and efficient, her blade cutting precisely at each joint.
Brad didn’t leave. He leaned against the doorframe, watching with curiosity. “Didn’t think you knew how to do this p>
“Back at the Kirk estate,” Rylie replied without looking up, her voice flat. “This was just part of the daily routine p>
As soon as he heard that, Brad’s eyes narrowed slightly.
Selah set a small bowl of greens on the table, a quiet sigh slipping from her lips.
“Rylie’s had to grow up fast. She’s been through more than her share with the Kirk family p>
“That won’t be her story anymore,” Brad replied under his breath.