Chapter 17

"Get out!"

The air in the hospital room turned icy. Mr. Garnache's years in the business world radiated an oppressive aura.

Vivian's lab coat gleamed coldly under the sunlight. The corner of her lips curved beneath her mask. "Are you sure, Mr. Garnache? Once I leave, it won't be easy to bring me back."

"I said get out! If you dare harass my daughter again, you'll regret it!"

"Dad!" Emily stomped her foot in frustration.

Vivian turned and walked away, her lab coat swishing sharply behind her.

News traveled fast. The moment Vivian returned to her office, Daniel Ashcroft barged in.

"Some people really don't know their place," he sneered, leaning against the doorframe. "Daring to provoke Mr. Garnache."

Vivian didn't even look up. "Don't you have patients to attend to, Dr. Ashcroft?"

"I'm just giving you a friendly warning," he scoffed. "Relying on Nathan Clementson's connections won't save you forever."

"When did this hospital turn into a zoo?" Vivian finally met his gaze. "I hear barking everywhere."

Daniel's face darkened. "Who are you calling a dog?"

"If the shoe fits." She flipped through a patient file calmly. "By the way, I heard about last week's surgery..."

He slammed the door on his way out.

Back in the hospital room, Mr. Garnache was still fuming. His precious daughter needed rest after her surgery.

A bodyguard knocked gently. "Mr. Garnache, Mr. Roscente is here to see you."

"Ethan Roscente?" Mr. Garnache frowned. "Let him in."

Ethan entered with a bouquet of flowers, exuding authority with every movement.

After exchanging pleasantries, Ethan glanced at Emily. "Mr. Garnache, may we speak privately?"

In the hallway, Ethan cut straight to the point. "Any leads on Night's whereabouts?"

"I'm searching for her too," Mr. Garnache sighed. "She saved Emily's life. I owe her my gratitude."

Ethan's eyes darkened. "My father's condition is critical. If you hear anything..."

"You'll be the first to know," Mr. Garnache promised solemnly.

The moment Ethan left, Nathan's call came through.

"That female doctor?" Mr. Garnache dismissed. "I already—"

Whatever Nathan said next made his eyes widen. "She's... Night?!"