Chapter 23 A Dead Ringer

“The surveince system was down?” Nathan’s gaze sharpened. What were the odds of that?

“Yes, Mr. Powell,” Steve confirmed.

“Keep digging until you find out the person who did it,” Nathan ordered decisively.

The timing was so convenient, and he wouldn’t believe for a second that it was merely a coincidence. Who was bold enough to plot against him? He’d make sure the chief culprit paid.

“Alright,” Steve said before hanging up.

Massaging his temples, Nathan still felt irked.

For all these years, Susanna had always been like a fragile, adorable sister he feltpelled to protect. Her tragic his- tory stirred hispassion, and he had been nothing but kind to her-maybe a bit too much sometimes. But he had never done anything inappropriate. At most, he’d hug her, peck her forehead, and stroke her hair. That was all.

He was a man of principle and boundaries, and he had never intended to cross the line. After all, he was a married

man.

But that spiked drink on Valentine’s Day had shattered his lifetime of restraint…

***

In the hospital’s administration office.

Evander lounged on the sofa, crossing his legs while flipping through a document with his slender fingers.

“This is all you can find out about Vanessa?” He frowned.

“Yes, Mr. Carroll. Every little detail.” Dwayne nodded.

Evander was slightly dazed.

ording to the file, Vanessa had never been abroad.

But… she was a dead ringer for that girl,

On Valentine’s Day, in a fleeting moment of sobriety, his bloodshot eyes focused on Vanessa’s face-her delicate fea- tures, straight nose, and full, moist lips… Everything reminded him of the girl he’d longed for for years. Lust over- whelmed him as he crushed his mouth to Vanessa’s. What a wild, reckless night!

His Adam’s apple bobbed uncontrobly.

Then he ordered sternly, “Go downstairs to guard Mr. Barnard’s ward with Albert. Don’t let anyone near Mr. Barnard.

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Chapter 23 A Dead Ringer

288 Vouchers

The news of his critical condition and surgery in Brookford has been leaked, and those with ulterior motives will try their best to approach him. Do whatever you can to ensure his safety.”

“Alright,” Dwayne said before going downstairs.

Evander’s gaze darkened as he pulled out his wallet. Inside was a photo of a teenage girl about fifteen years old.

Gazing at the photo, he was lost in thought.

Early the next morning.

Vanessa had just finished her shift report when her colleagues starteding in for work.

“Congrattions, Dr. Dorsey. The surgery is such a sess, and Mr. Barron is absolutely thrilled! He’s talking about giving you amendation and a promotion,” Helen crowed with admiration in her eyes.

“That’s right. Obviously, Mr. Barron values this VIP patient a lot. I heard he’s so impressed with your surgical exper- tise and is even nning a celebration for you, Dr. Dorsey!”

“Dr. Dorsey, now that you’re about to move up thedder, promise us you won’t forget about those days we worked overtime together.”

“How remarkable, Dr. Dorsey, being so aplished at such a young age. I’ve been here for decades, yet I’m still an attending physician.”

Several doctors surrounded Vanessa, congratting her.

Vanessa smiled. In fact, bonuses held no appeal for her. After all, she wasn’t short of money. But she did value her ca- reer and reputation, and Marcus’s acknowledgment was indeed gratifying.

“Thanks, guys. If there really is a bonus, I’ll treat you to a seafood feast. You may order whatever you want,” she of-

fered.

“Really? Yay! Dr. Dorsey, you’re the best!”

Everyoneughed.

Soon, patient hours started, and everyone threw themselves into their work.

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