The Ex-Con Who Conquered the World novel Chapter 96

With a final glare of sullen resentment towards Stefan, he slunk away without another word.

"Dr. Bryant, I sincerely apologize. Had I known you were coming to Elixirs Dispensary yourself, I would have been here to assist you. This unfortunate incident would never have occurred," Valka said, stepping forward, his tone full of regret.

He paused, offering a tentative smile. "Would you care to step inside for a cup of coffee?"

"That's quite alright, Mr. Hale. Perhaps another time. I have other matters to attend to today. But I'll certainly be back—this is where I get my supplies," Stefan replied with an easy smile.

"Excellent! That's wonderful news. Please, do let me know before your next visit. I'll ensure I'm here to receive you," Valka responded, visibly pleased.

"I'll do that," Stefan agreed, already thinking Valka might be useful for sourcing rarer ingredients in the future.

"And there's no need for formalities like 'Dr. Bryant' or 'Miracle Doctor.' Just Stefan is fine. All that title does is make me feel old."

Valka hesitated, looking slightly uncomfortable. After a moment's thought, he proposed, "Then... would 'Mr. Bryant' be acceptable?"

"That works." Anything was better than the grandiose titles.

Megan, who had remained nearby, watched the exchange with keen interest.

It was clear that Valka's attitude toward Stefan went beyond mere respect—it bordered on reverence, the kind of awe a devoted fan might show their idol.

Given Valka's age and esteemed reputation in River City's medical circles, such deference could only stem from Stefan's extraordinary skill.

After bidding Valka farewell, Stefan continued down the street, intending to browse a while longer.

A familiar, elegant fragrance—a blend of subtle perfume and something uniquely, captivatingly feminine—wafted beside him.

Megan had fallen into step with him.

"Ms. Davis, have you decided to stick with me?" Stefan said with a playful glint in his eyes.

Megan tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear, her smile both charming and knowingly coy. "Can you blame me? You're the one who said it."

Stefan looked puzzled. "Said what?"

A light laugh escaped her. "You told me we're connected by a thread. Where you go, I suppose I must follow." She met his gaze, a flicker of playful challenge in her own.

She was using his own words against him.

Was he... being flirted with? And so directly?

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