She Was the Treasure All Along novel Chapter 27

The man handed her a top-tier VIP card.

Loyce shook her head. “No, thank you. That’s too much.”

Her refusal only made him more determined to make her take it. He introduced himself along the way. He’d once served under Lucian too, but during a conflict at sea a grenade had damaged the nerves in his leg, leaving him unable to walk normally. He still needed a cane. With no other choice, he’d retired and partnered with his wife’s family to open this restaurant.

“If this leg hadn’t been ruined, I could’ve stayed with Admiral Lucian another couple years,” Tucker said with a sigh. “Please do everything you can to get him well. The boys in the army, and the country… they need him.”

Something in Loyce’s chest tightened. She accepted the card, then pulled a personal business card from her bag and handed it to him. “I’ve been staying in military housing lately. I see patients at the clinic there in the evenings. If you want to take another look at your leg, come find me.”

Tucker’s expression jolted. He was so excited he could barely get the words out. “You mean… it can still be treated?”

Loyce didn’t exaggerate. “I’d need a thorough exam before I can say. I can’t promise anything right now, but I can try.”

Tucker clasped her hand, thanking her earnestly. “I trust your skills completely. If you can treat our admiral, you can treat me.”

From Lester’s table, the scene looked very different.

“Who’s that older guy?” the racer beside him asked, then warned, “Asus Relay Race is coming up. Don’t let Loyce’s personal life screw up our sponsorship.”

Lester’s temper flared. He threw down his napkin and strode toward Loyce.

“The family hasn’t made an official statement yet, On paper, you’re still one of us,” Lester snapped. “I’m warning you, don’t embarrass the Sampson family, or you can forget about racing for my team again!”

Loyce almost laughed from sheer anger.

Lester’s teammates joined in, eager to back him up. “Yeah, Loyce. We’re still courting sponsors. You’re racing with us, so you can’t act like this. Hurry up and apologize to your brother. The Sampsons won’t abandon you.”

Lester lifted his chin, looking down at her like he was above her, waiting for her to apologize. He’d already decided: as long as Loyce backed down, he’d still push through and let her join the team. He’d even go home and put in a good word for her.

But…