The Unshackled King (by David Wu) novel Chapter 94

"You—" Elliott jabbed a finger toward Stefan, words poised on his tongue, when two figures emerged from the Elixirs Dispensary.

The first was Valka, hurrying out in haste.

Following him was Megan, whose emerald velvet gown clung to every lush, mature curve of her body. The cinched waist emphasized a breathtaking silhouette, swaying with a grace that seemed to enchant the very air as she moved.

"You're the owner of Elixirs Dispensary, aren't you?"

Spotting Valka, Elliott immediately puffed up with arrogance, his tone haughty. "I'm Elliott Miller, heir of the Miller family. My uncle is Arthur Lessing. I was assaulted in your shop—"

But Valka's attention had already shifted. His eyes swept past Elliott, ignoring his bluster, and landed squarely on Stefan.

A jolt of recognition shot through him. Without a glance toward Elliott, Valka hurried over to Stefan, clasped his hands respectfully, and bowed slightly. "Dr. Bryant, have you come to purchase herbs?"

Ever since witnessing Stefan perform the Spectral Veil Series Needle Technique at the hospital, Valka had regarded the younger man with something akin to reverence.

A lifelong student of traditional medicine, Valka had devoted decades to the art, and in Stefan, he saw a master—a figure to be honored regardless of age.

"Mr. Hale, you own this dispensary? What a coincidence." Stefan smiled, then let his gaze drift toward Megan.

He hadn't expected to encounter her again—this woman who blended beauty, charm, and a magnetic maturity into one captivating presence.

"Mr. Bryant, fancy meeting you here." Megan's lips curved into a playful smile as she glided toward him.

She had been on her way out, but recognizing Stefan as the one involved in the scuffle changed her plans. She lingered, drawn into the scene.

"Ms. Davis, I'm starting to wonder. Did you tie some kind of thread to me last night at Dynasty Mall?" Stefan began, a hint of amusement in his voice.

Megan tilted her head, feigning innocence. "A thread? I'm afraid I don't follow."

"Well, River City isn't so small that we'd keep crossing paths purely by chance. It feels as though I've been gently pulled here by some invisible threads, right into your presence once more."

A light, melodious laugh escaped her, setting her boobs trembling in a manner that was decidedly distracting.

Over on the other side, Elliott stood frozen, his initial shock rapidly curdling into a hot, seething rage.

What was wrong with the owner of this damned Elixirs Dispensary?

Was the man too old to hear? Had he not heard a single word?

He was Elliott, heir of the Miller family! His uncle was Arthur!

Once her laughter subsided, Megan's eyes sparkled. "I didn't realize you had such a playful side, Mr. Bryant."

Valka, who had been watching the exchange with mild surprise, finally spoke up, "Dr. Bryant, you and Ms. Davis are acquainted?"

"We met just last night. I actually ended up troubling her a bit then," Stefan explained.

Nodding in understanding, Valka quickly returned to the matter at hand. "Please forgive me for not greeting you properly when you arrived. Whatever herbs you've selected today, allow me to cover the cost. Having you visit my humble shop is an honor enough."

Stefan raised a hand in polite refusal. "Mr. Hale, you're running a business, not a charity. Your prices are fair, and I'm happy to pay."

Before Valka could insist, a furious shout cut through the conversation. "Enough!"

Elliott stood quivering with rage, his fists clenched tight. He had been utterly ignored—treated like air—while Valka showered attention and respect on Stefan. The contrast was too much to bear.

"It seems you have no interest in keeping your dispensary open!" Elliott spat, his eyes turning bloodshot.

"Mr. Miller, I understand the situation now, and I believe this is all a misunderstanding. If you still require those three herbs, give me a little time. I will find them for you," Valka replied calmly, turning toward him at last.