Chapter 161

Chapter 161 Generous Hospitality ##James had a gentle look on his face as he extended both arms welcomingly. “I hope God blesses you with better things, young man.”

Rudd never dreamed that he could enter the Reid residence’s front doors. After all, the Reids were rich beyond belief-to the point where someone like Rudd was unworthy of even mentioning their name. Now, alongside entering the residence, Rudd even got to experience such generous hospitality.

The excitement caused his chest to tighten, leaving him breathless again. Seeing that, James put down his arms and chuckled.

“I suppose my presence might make things slightly awkward, so I’ll be on my way now.”

He then promptly turned on his heel to leave with his walking cane in hand.

Rudd’s jaw stayed agape for the longest time. Never in a million years did he imagine tycoons like the Reid family behaving kindly toward those with less wealth.

Once Darius and Rudd were the only ones left in the hallway, the latter spoke up in a meek tone. “Man, I’m so nervous! 1 once asked a random person about the Reid Consortium, and would you believe it? People say that your family name holds many assets-enough to make you gods!”

“You’re exaggerating. That’s not true at all.” Darius chuckled while shaking his head.

Before Rudd could rebuke him, the phone in Darius’ pocket rang. Hence, he kept quiet, waiting as his friend answered the call.

He eventually turned to look at the many photos and the famous painting on the hallway’s walls.

Rudd had seen that painting before. His grandfather wanted to purchase it during an auction. However, the painting’s starting price alone had already exceeded the combined net worth of his entire family. Because of that, Rudd’s family could only give up on acquiring the painting.

Little did Rudd know the painting his grandfather wanted to store in their basement privately would appear in the Reid residence’s hallway. He could not help thinking, “Damn. I wonder what the art pieces stored in the Reid family’s private collections would look like. Not only that, but how much are they worth?” Knowing his best friend now lived in a well-off environment, Rudd no longer felt worried for him.

Meanwhile, Darius answered the phone and heard Erin’s voice on the other end of the line.” Dearest Mr. Reid, your participation is essential for our upcoming task to succeed.”

It was crystal clear to Darius that his temporary vacation had ended at that point. Weariness weighed down his voice as he asked, “What is it about?”

Erin detected Darius’ unwillingness but chose to ignore it. “Many contracts and files are awaiting your signatures at the hospital.

We also can’t complete the procedures for collaboration projects without you. Most importantly, the other chairpeople of the hospital want to schedule a meeting with you as soon as possible.” “Okay.” Darius nodded. “I’ll head over now.” Rudd happened to hear that and immediately walked over. “Then I’ll see myself out too. But um, can I hitch a ride with you?”

“Of course,” said Darius, who cocked a brow before pivoting on his heel. “Hey, Rudd. Try to keep up.” Moments later, they arrived before a fleet of luxury vehicles worth a minimum of twenty million dollars.

Rudd’s eyes widened again. “Do all these cars belong to you?” The amazement in the former’s tone made Darius laugh. “Yes.

Would you like to choose which car we’ll leave in?”

Rudd was quick to decide – He chose a modified Lincoln with fancy interior lighting. It sparked a daydream of having many gorgeous models in miniskirts seated alongside him as he drove. On top of that, he pictured everyone holding tall glasses filled with glistening red wine. Because that scene seemed perfect, he felt disappointed once he realized it was just a daydream. Rudd pouted as he took in the impressive but empty car. Darius quickly understood the reason behind that expression. It was only natural as he and Rudd had lived in the same dormitory for many years. Thus, he chuckled heartily. “This isn’t a stretch Lincoln limousine, so your fantasy will be unlikely to happen anytime soon.” Not expecting his friend to guess his thoughts, Rudd stiffened. His cheeks turned bright pink in seconds.

Darius did not pay Rudd’s reaction too much heed. Instead, he floored the accelerator, driving onto the road at lightning speed.

Despite this, his driving was steady and allowed for a smooth ride.

Rudd’s lips rounded while he exclaimed, “Damn! This car is incredible! Why did I never realize a Lincoln could be this great?”

“Because Erin had this car custom-made on my behalf. It’s different from other Lincolns,” answered a smirking Darius.

Only then did Rudd nod in realization. “Oh! So, it’s just because my car isn’t as good.” The two arrived at their destination-

Serene Hospital.

Darius opened the car door, but Rudd spoke before the former could step out. “Go ahead with your work. I’ll be on my way then.

See you at school!”

Darius’ gaze settled on Rudd’s cheery smile at that moment. Darius was initially worried that Rudd would drown in heartbreak after getting tricked by his ex-girlfriend. That was why Darius brought him along, Currently, Rudd’s grin seemed more sincere and relaxed than his previous pursed smiles. Darius did not ask him to stay. He exited his car and saw many people standing at the hospital’s main entrance, waiting to welcome him.

Standing at the forefront were Erin and Emily.

Once the two confirmed Darius was approaching them, they rushed to his side faster than anyone else to greet him. “Sir, welcome to Serene Hospital, where we gladly provide a lifetime of healthcare service to all individuals.”

Darius was pleased to hear such words of welcome. He nodded and announced to everyone, “I hope every staff member here will firmly stand by the hospital’s one belief – to ensure that all healed and recovered patients never return.”

Those words were spoken with such force that everyone heard them, including those on the road outside the hospital.

All gazes shifted toward Darius at once, but everyone only saw his back as Darius had already entered the hospital upon finishing his announcement.

Erin followed behind him. Before she could greet her boss, whom she had not seen in a long time, he spoke. “Erin, my friend is outside and needs a ride.” Mere seconds passed as Erin whipped out her phone, made arrangements, then put it back into her pocket.

After confirming Rudd had secured a ride, Darius focused all his attention on the path ahead. He asked, “Where’s the director?”

“Director Lewis is en route to a social event.” Erin hurriedly clarified on behalf of the new hospital director, Lewis Russell, “Work has been challenging for Director Bench as he just started his post as director here, and he has no blood relations supporting him...” Darius nodded. “I’ll back him. Also, you’re free to assign such tasks based on your own judgment. There’s no need to get my approval.” Erin’s face lit up with a bright smile upon hearing that.