?Chapter 286:


    Then, Freddie leaned back in his seat beside Samuel, finally breathing easier. “Just got the news—Christina really did get Dr. Emmett to the hospital, and just as she had pointed out, Eloise was poisoned. I owe Christina everything. And you too. If you hadn’t stepped in, I never would’ve believed someone so young could pull off something like this.”


    Samuel took a slow sip of coffee, a faint smile on his lips. “No need to thank me. The real thanks goes to Christina.”


    Brandon raised an eyebrow. “Oh? Why the sudden use of that gentle tone when mentioning her name?”


    Samuel gave him a yful re. “Why? Can’t I show my appreciation to a talent like her?” He huffed dramatically and then added, “Careful, old friend—I might just urge my grandson to chase after her. Let’s see if Elliott can handle thepetition.”


    Samuel turned away with a mock pout, like a sulking child. In terms of winning Christina’s affection, Dn was already enough of a headache for Elliott, and things would be spiced up if Ralphy was thrown into the mix. Who knew—maybe Christina would actually fall for the yboy vibe Ralphy carried.


    “No, no, no! Hell no! Chill out, Freddie!” he burst out, jumping to his feet in a panic. He adopted a pleading tone as he gazed at Samuel. “Samuel, please, stop pulling my leg! It’s already a struggle for Elliott topete with Dn for Christina’s affection. If Ralphy joins the mix, my poor Elliott won’t stand a chance!”


    Samuel remained stone-faced. “Pour me a cup of coffee.”


    “Right away!” Freddie scrambled over and poured a cup of coffee with a wide grin. Now that Eloise was safe, the heavy weight in his chest finally lifted. He felt lighter—like he could breathe again.


    Meanwhile, in the inner hall of the Hubbard family’s estate, Elliott slipped his phone back into his pocket, his gaze settling on Christina, his eyes gleaming. “My parents have met with Dr. Emmett. He confirmed my sister is stable for now, but she’ll need to follow your prescription for the antidote going forward.”


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    Christina gave a small nod. “Once Eloise wakes up, I’ll prepare the proper form.”


    Elliott studied her, curiosity flickering in his eyes. “How did you even recognize that poison? And more than that, you knew how to treat it. Not even the hospital specialists and those medical tests caught the poison.”


    Christina answered calmly, “An elderly woman taught me about it years ago. I’ve seen it before, so I knew what to do.”


    “I see.” Elliott didn’t dig deeper, but his tone grew solemn. “You’ve earned the Hubbard family’s debt. Whatever you need, just say the word.”


    “There’s nothing I need right now. Let’s wait until Miss Hubbard recovers fully,” Christina replied.


    “Then the offer stands. Consider it an open debt,” Elliott said.


    Christina’s voice softened. “Can we talk somewhere private? There’s something important I need to tell you.”


    “Of course. Come with me,” Elliott stood.


    Soon, they stepped into a hidden chamber.


    “Only a handful of Hubbards know about this room. Outsiders have no idea it exists—it’spletely secure. Now tell me—what is it?” Elliott asked as he turned to face her.


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