The Billionaire's True Heiress From Fake Jewel to Real Crown novel Chapter 1626

Elias Sterling, the brilliant young heir to the Sterling legacy, was a strong candidate. However, he had been dispatched on a high-risk mission to Montara a few days ago.

He had returned with an arm injury. While he could do basic consultations, performing the excruciatingly precise acupuncture was out of the question.

The golden needles required absolute physical perfection; a slight tremor from an injury would be fatal.

They had already begged Elias, but he physically couldn't do it.

Claire had been out of town during the initial crisis, so Hanson hadn't even considered her.

It was Dr. Tandy who brought her up, mentioning a terrifyingly gifted young woman and asking if they were desperate enough to try.

Harold Harding had witnessed Claire's prowess firsthand and instantly gave the green light.

Hillary's parents, however, were fiercely opposed to the idea—especially Mrs. Harding.

Learning that the supposed "savior" was younger than her own daughter made her immediately reject the proposal.

She had demanded they charter a jet to bring Dr. Sterling Senior back immediately.

The officials had approved the request, but Dr. Sterling Senior's flight was mysteriously grounded due to unforeseen airspace complications.

There was no way the old master was making it back in time.

And Hillary was out of time.

Mrs. Harding's objections no longer mattered.

The rest of the Harding family voted yes, and Hanson, as Hillary's fiancé, gave absolute consent.

Mr. Harding pulled his hysterical wife out of the hallway, giving Hanson the opening to call Claire.

That bitter family argument was the main reason the distress call came so late.

"Claire. We're fighting in the trenches together again," Dr. Tandy said, waving her over as she hurried in.

Dragging a college girl out of bed at 3 A.M. was brutal, but Dr. Tandy knew saving a high-profile asset like Hillary would cement Claire's reputation instantly.

Even if she didn't care about fame, the clinical experience was invaluable.

"Dr. Tandy," Claire greeted, matching his brisk pace.

Dr. Tandy lightly tapped her forehead with a chart. "Why are you still so formal with me?"

"Let's go. It's your show tonight."

He tossed her a sterile surgical gown. There was zero time for pleasantries; the clock was ticking.

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