“These are my conditions. If you agree, we can proceed. If not, there is no reason to continue this discussion,” Katelyn added firmly.

A shadow crossed Neil’s face. How could he miss the connection between Hades and Katelyn, especially with the final condition directly involving her? In a colder tone, he inquired, “What is your relationship with Katelyn?”

Katelyn allowed a small smile to play on her lips. “She is my best friend. In fact, she asked me personally to treat Mrs. Wheeler. Without her request, no amount of money would compel me to do this,” Katelyn replied, seizing the chance to further needle him.

Neil’s expression darkened as he queried, “Why has Katelyn never mentioned this to me?”

Katelyn leaned back on the couch, her voice icy as she retorted, “That’s your problem, not mine. What matters are the conditions I’ve set. Can you meet them?”

This time, Neil responded without hesitation, “No problem. When can you start the treatment?”

Whatever Hades’ reasons for agreeing, this was a chance for Carol. One of Neil’s few redeeming qualities was his devotion to his family.

Katelyn’s tone remained even as she replied, “Once Mrs. Wheeler is transferred to Heartland Hospital, I’ll be there.”

“Alright,” Neil said and ended the call.

Lise had been by his side throughout the conversation. Though Neil hadn’t used speakerphone, she had pieced together most of the discussion from what he had said. Disbelief colored her features. Discover more novels at FindN()vel.net

“Katelyn is actually close friends with Hades? How come I never knew of this?” Lise asked, her hands clenched, her eyes alight with jealousy.

She had hoped to capitalize on this crisis, thinking that finding Hades would endear her to Neil. And when Carol awoke to find her savior had been secured by Lise, her attitude would surely soften. But now, Katelyn had usurped what seemed like a golden opportunity. How many more secrets did Katelyn harbor?

? ν?

Neil, his gaze steely, ordered, “Put those thoughts aside for now. We need to move Grandma to the hospital.” As for Katelyn, he vowed to unravel all her secrets later.

Though Lise was resentful, she nodded. “Alright, I’ll make the arrangements.”

Denied this chance to shine, she was determined to find other ways to ingratiate herself with the Wheelers. The only remaining barrier to her aspirations was Carol’s approval. And she was resolved not to let that deter her.

Meanwhile, after disconnecting, Katelyn retrieved the menacing mask she wore as Hades, a fearsome, demonic visage that belied her life-saving capabilities. Dressed for the part, she drove to Heartland Hospital.

But upon her arrival, she discovered someone had already arrived ahead of her.

Vincent and Samuel sat in the waiting room of the hospital. This was the most advanced facility in Granville, but few knew it was actually owned by Vincent.

Katelyn had spoken to Vincent earlier to ensure Carol received the treatment she needed at Heartland Hospital.

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