The Unshackled King (by David Wu) novel Chapter 59

Valka stepped forward with a respectful tone. "Dr. Bryant, may I have your contact information?"

"Of course," Stefan replied with a calm smile, pulling out his phone to exchange details.

"Dr. Bryant!" Killian hadn't left yet.

Steeling himself, he stepped forward with determination. "I wish to become your apprentice—to leave modern medicine behind and study the traditional path with you."

Stefan paused, then gave a light, somewhat amused laugh. "I'm not taking on apprentices. Honestly, you might not be suited for traditional medicine. You can do plenty of good by continuing to practice modern medicine."

With that, he turned and walked out.

Nina followed him into the hospital courtyard.

"Stefan, thank you so much for today." She reached out and took his hand without thinking, her touch warm and sincere. "Mr. Myers' family is well-known in Mound City. Rebecca and I grew up together—she's like a sister to me. You saved her life, and now I owe you another favor. I don't know how I'll ever repay you."

Stefan thought privately. She'll keep owing me more. Soon enough, she won't be able to repay with favors alone. She'll have to pay with her body!

But he kept that to himself. Instead, Stefan gently squeezed her hand, enjoying its softness. "Nina, don't mention it. Let's not speak of debts between us."

"Okay, I'll drop the formalities just this once." She nodded, a faint blush coloring her cheeks as a sweet smile graced her lips.

Just then, Janet hurried out. Seeing Stefan holding Nina's hand, she glared. "Stefan! Take your hands off Ms. Reed—don't you dare try anything!"

Stefan suppressed the urge to roll his eyes.

This third wheel is really something.

Nina smoothly withdrew her hand, though her eyes still held a shy glimmer. "Rebecca just woke up—I should stay with her a bit longer. Where are you headed? Let Janet give you a ride."

"No need. That third wheel is a bit too much for me. Go ahead—I'll catch up with you later," Stefan said, waving a hand.

"'Third wheel'?" Janet fumed, arms crossed.

Nina simply laughed softly, her eyes bright with quiet amusement.

"Alright, Eliza, who was that guy with you yesterday? Call him. Tell him to come to Dynasty Club," Dawson said coldly, staring Eliza down.

Eliza clenched her jaw. "How dare you kidnap me in broad daylight! Do you think the police won't come for you?"

"The police?" Dawson smirked. "They know better than to mess with the Celestial Wyrm Society. Now—who was he? Make the call."

Eliza stayed silent, refusing to say a word. She knew they wanted to target Stefan, and she wasn't going to give him up.

"Playing tough?" Dawson's smile turned cruel. "Think I can't find out? Leo—what's the guy's name?"

Leo thought back. "Yesterday... at the shop, I think she called him Stefan."

Dawson's expression hardened. "Get her phone. Find his number."

One of the lackeys moved toward Eliza. She struggled, panic rising in her voice. "No—stay away from me! Back off!"