"There doesn't always have to be a reason. I never explain myself."
Hazel turned her face back toward the window, opting to stay quiet. Julian pulled his hand away and returned it to the steering wheel, keeping his eyes on the road.
She didn't have the energy to dissect how much of his statement was genuine. Julian always operated with a hidden agenda; it just depended on whether he was willing to share it.
Meanwhile, Mrs. Garrison paced frantically outside the hospital room, anxiously picking at her nails. She had no idea if Hazel could actually convince Julian to help. Gideon's blood type was incredibly rare, and every time he fell ill, it felt like a race against the grim reaper.
She had heard the "blood bank depleted" warning far too many times, and every single time, it rekindled her raging hatred for Hazel. If that wretched girl hadn't stolen Gideon's nutrients in the womb, his immune system wouldn't be this fragile.
Hazel owed Gideon a debt she could never repay in this lifetime!
She prayed Hazel would actually be useful for once instead of just enraging her.
Just then, the sound of approaching footsteps echoed down the corridor. A young woman walked toward her, her hair pulled back into a simple ponytail, wearing a denim maxi dress. She looked slender and slightly pale. She stopped, glanced at Mrs. Garrison, and offered a casual smile.
"I heard you're looking for Rh-null blood?"
Mrs. Garrison's head snapped up, a desperate light igniting in her eyes.
She lunged forward and grabbed the girl's hands, gripping them like a lifeline.
"Is it you? Do you have Rh-null blood? Oh, thank you so much! You are an absolute angel!"
The girl unceremoniously yanked her hands free, shoved them into her pockets, and let out an amused scoff.
She chased after her, desperately grabbing the girl's arm. "How much do you want? I'll pay it!"
The girl stopped and turned back around, a smug smile playing on her lips. She leisurely raised two fingers and offered a cryptic smirk.
"I'm not asking for much. Ten thousand dollars for one donation. I've done my research, and considering the market, it's a bargain."
Mrs. Garrison's eyes bulged in absolute shock. "Ten thousand dollars for a single donation? Are you out of your mind?"
"I know his blood type is a nightmare to find, and I happen to be a match. Unless you've got another donor on standby, this is the price. Take it or leave it." She shrugged, turning to walk away once more.
"Fine! I'll pay you! Just go donate right now!" Mrs. Garrison shrieked, gripping her arm tight.

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