The old man then shifted his attention to Calvin, examining him closely after hearing his defense.
With a spark of curiosity, he questioned, âIf youâre so opposed to following trends, why did you choose to undergo plastic procedures yourself?â
He then began to critique Calvinâs cosmetic enhancements, pointing out what he saw as flaws and areas of dissatisfaction.
âYour double eyelids lack harmony, and your jawline seems to ignore the very basics of facial aesthetics.
Previously, youâ¦â
His critique was so detailed that he could describe Calvinâs features as if he had seen him before the procedures, without needing any photographs for reference.
After a thorough critique of Calvinâs appearance, the old man shook his head in disapproval.
âYour face before is bad enough.
But opting for plastic surgery and ending with such regrettable choices are way worse.
â
Ariana, hearing this, felt a surge of anger.
Calvin had chosen plastic surgery to address his insecurities, and the outcome had already been a source of distress for him.
She knew the old manâs harsh words would only deepen Calvinâs sense of humiliation.
With a frosty demeanor, Ariana said, âIf youâre not willing to offer your help, weâll seek assistance elsewhere.
We wonât bother you any longer.
â
As Ariana pulled Calvinâs hand to leave, they were taken aback by the old manâs haughty response.
âLeave if you must.
But remember, in all of Eleymond, I alone have the skill to correct his appearance and erase the scars of his surgeries.
Should you consult others, heâll only be subjected to an endless cycle of corrective procedures.
â
Upon hearing that, Ariana swallowed her frustration and stopped.
She was aware that the old manâs manner might have been a bit odd, yet his expertise was renowned.
Surely, he had genuine talent.
Left with no alternative, Ariana found herself seeking the manâs help.
âHow would you be willing to perform the surgery? You can make any demands,â she said.
The old man turned his back to her and let out a huff.
âThatâll depend on my mood.
â
With that, he casually strolled to the table and took a seat, saying, âBut right now, Iâm starving.
I havenât eaten anything yet.
â
Without hesitation, Ariana offered, âI can cook! Just let me know what youâd like to have.
â
The old manâs face broke into a smile as he replied, âYes, thatâs the way to ask for a favor.
â
He then settled himself comfortably in his seat and began to request various dishes.
He named about six dishes, all of which Ariana knew how to prepare.
She quickly enlisted Calvinâs help to go shopping for ingredients and start cooking.
ALL afternoon, Ariana and Calvin served as unpaid helpers at the old manâs mansion.
Their tasks included cooking, washing up, and even cleaning the old manâs home.
They attended to his every whim.
As evening approached, the old manâs attitude became a bit more gentle.
He escorted them to the door, giving them a nod as he said, âYou both have put in a lot of effort today.
Itâs time for you to head home.
â
The topic of the surgery wasnât brought up again.
Ariana and Calvin simply nodded their heads and left.
On their journey back, Calvin was filled with a sense of disappointment and remorse.
He looked down and apologized to Ariana, âIâm so sorry, Ariana.
You wouldnât have had to go through all this if it werenât for me.
Perhaps we should think about finding a different doctor.
â
Ariana slumped in her seat and said, âNo, he was right.
Itâs possible that other surgeons wonât be able to do what he can.
â
After a pause, she added, âDonât lose hope yet.
The old doctor seemed a bit more approachable before we left.
Thereâs still a chance.
Plus, talented people often have their quirks.
â