Chapter 221



Kallie jumped to her feet, alarmed. Her gaze shifted fearfully toward the consulting room as her hands began to perspire.

Luckily, the doctor shook his head dismissively. “She’s had an abortion previously. Another termination could trivialize the issue of conceiving again. More importantly, it could have serious health repercussions, weakening her body significantly. I would advise against an abortion if you want her to remain healthy.”

The assistant’s face fell with disappointment. “Then, I hope you can prescribe something to bolster her health and strengthen her constitution.”

Suddenly, a chill voice cut through the air near Kallie, directed at Bria’s assistant. “Aren’t you Bria’s assistant? Did she send you here to fetch some medication because she’s feeling ill?”

The assistant turned around to find Ewing Nixon in the doorway, a look of surprise etched on her face.

Unsure of when he had arrived or what he had overheard, the assistant quickly masked her shock with a flawless smile. “Miss Nixon is quite well. It’s one of her servants who’s unwell and came here for a consultation. Thank you for your concern, Mr. Nixon.”

Gal no ve l s . com hosts your favorite stories “Is that so?” Ewing cast a glance downward at Kallie.

Kallie dropped her gaze to the floor, deliberately avoiding eye contact with Ewing.

Initially, Kallie had thought about asking Ewing for help, but he bore the Nixon surname and seemed to be on good terms with Bria. Being relatives, Kallie assumed Ewing and Bria would naturally look out for each other. Any rash action on her part could jeopardize her chance to break free.

Ewing adjusted his glasses, his handsome features marred by a flicker of suspicion. “Am I intimidating? Why won’t you look at me?” he asked Kallie.

Kallie bowed her head even lower.

The assistant swiftly intervened, positioning herself between Kallie and Ewing, and offered a smile. “I apologize, Mr. Nixon. This servant is new and still unfamiliar with our ways. She cannot speak and is extremely timid. She’s an orphan. Without Miss Nixon’s generosity, she likely wouldn’t have found employment with the Nixons. Please, bear with her.”

Ewing let out a laugh, though his smile was tinged with a chill of derision. “I never thought I’d see the day Bria turned compassionate. But, it’s a welcome change. Assure her there’s no need to be so cautious. Our grandpa and I are fully supportive.”

“Yes, sir.” The assistant nodded, understanding the directive.

Kallie, positioned behind Bria’s assistant, naturally missed Ewing’s facial expression.

Ewing took another look at Kallie and then turned to leave. However, just as he was about to step into the elevator, he glanced back.

At that moment, Kallie looked up, and their eyes met in a fleeting exchange.

Kallie possessed strikingly clear and beautiful eyes, not those of naive innocence, but rather those reflecting a serene indifference seasoned by life’s many trials.

This look struck a familiar chord in Ewing. Once kindled, this sense of familiarity was hard to shake. He couldn’t recall anything beyond those eyes, yet they left an indelible mark on his heart.

Kallie’s eyes reminded Ewing of those he had seen in his dreams, similar yet tinged with sadness and a hint of gentleness. Still, the memory of their owner eluded him. He only remembered glimpses from his early childhood.

Just then, the elevator chimed upon reaching the floor, pulling Ewing out of his reverie. He dispelled the haunting memories and stepped forward.

In a large ward that resembled more of a spacious apartment complete with a living room, bedroom, and kitchen, an elderly man sat playing the piano.

The nurses and staff moved about with deliberate care, their faces etched with concern. They tiptoed and whispered, their demeanor cautious not to disturb the man at the piano. He was, after all, the most revered figure in the city.

Suddenly, the sound of footsteps approached the door. Bria entered, her arms cradling a bouquet and a warm smile gracing her lips.

As the music ceased, Bria approached, her praise ringing clear. “Grandpa, your piano skills are improving every day.”

Her next words carried a note of concern. “But remember to look after yourself. The doctor advised plenty of rest. We certainly don’t want you to overexert yourself and fall ill again.”

Tyrone Nixon merely stared out the window, ignoring Bria completely.

Unfazed outwardly but internally vexed, Bria squatted in front of Tyrone, her voice soothing. “Grandpa, why don’t you rest on the bed? How about I ask someone to move the piano away?”

At that, Tyrone’s voice cut through the air, cold and sharp. “Who are you? What right do you have to meddle with my belongings?”

Bria’s smile froze, and she shook her head in disbelief. “Grandpa, how can you still not remember? I’m Bria, your granddaughter.”

Tyrone’s expression finally changed. “You are my granddaughter? Then where is my other granddaughter?” he muttered, his eyes clouding with sorrow.

Bria clenched her jaw. She couldn’t fathom why Tyrone remained so attached to a woman long missed, perhaps even dead.

“Bria.” At that moment, Ewing entered. “I was the one who suggested we put the piano here. It’s the only hobby our grandpa has left. He’s aging, and we shouldn’t limit what brings him joy, right?”

Bria blinked innocently and said, “Ewing, that’s not what I meant. I just think our grandpa needs more rest. I was only trying to…”

Ewing interrupted firmly, “The doctor recommended letting him pursue his passions. It might even help bring back his memory. If you truly care for him, you should just let things be.”

“Fine.” Bria conceded, her voice tense.

No sooner had Bria agreed than she grasped her chest, her complexion turning ashen.

Ewing asked with concern, “What’s wrong? Are you feeling unwell again?”

Bria shook her head and responded, “It’s nothing serious. Just the usual issues. We should be more worried about our grandpa’s health.”

At that moment, Tyrone, whose thoughts had become clearer, raised his head to look at Bria. “Haven’t I told you to look after yourself? There’s no need for you to visit so often. Ewing’s here, and everything’s under control.”

Bria gently shook her head and said softly, “I worry about you, which is why I came to check on you. By the way, I have some performances lined up, so I really should head back. I’m sorry I can’t stay longer to look after you. But my regular doctor is in Ferelden. Even though Avalon has advanced medical facilities, I’m more comfortable with the doctors I know.”

Tyrone nodded understandingly. “Don’t worry about me. No need for you to come all the way here just to check on me. Go ahead. I’ll arrange for someone to drive you to the private airport.”

Meanwhile, Ewing, who had been silent, suddenly remembered Kallie, whom he had seen earlier in the hospital, her familiar eyes lingering in his mind. He interjected abruptly, “Bria, perhaps you should stay a bit longer. I’ve arranged for you to see a specialist next week, and he’s only available then.”

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