She stood silently for a moment, lost in thought, while Matthew, equally absorbed, seemed to be piecing together his own conclusions about Howards sudden invitation.


    Matthews mind wandered back to the fragments of his ongoing investigation.


    Something significant-something pivotal-hovered on the edge of his thoughts, almost within reach.


    But before he could grasp it, a sharp, searing headache struck Like a bolt of lightning, derailing his train of thought.


    Ste noticed the sudden pallor washing over his face and asked with m, Whats wrong? Are you feeling unwell somewhere? Matthew weakly waved his hand, attempting to dismiss her concern.


    But before he could say a word, darkness consumed his vision.


    His legs buckled, and he copsed to the floor, unconscious.


    Matthew was rushed to the emergency room while Ste paced anxiously in the corridor, her brow furrowed with worry.


    Lindsay sat in her wheelchair nearby, equally shaken after witnessing Matthew faint.


    Yet, amidst her concern, a small sense of relief crept in-she wouldnt have to undergo her leg examination for now. As Stes anxiety reached its peak, her phone suddenly rang.


    She nced at the screen-it was Be calling.


    Ste.


    Bes voice came through gently.


    Whitney knows a brain specialist.


    When do you n to take Matthew for a check-up? I can arrange an appointment with Whitney right away.


    Mom, can we do it now? Ste replied hurriedly, her voice trembling.


    Matthew fainted, and I have no idea whats happening to him.


    Hearing this, Be grew equally anxious but tried to calm Ste.


    Take a deep breath and stayposed.


    Which hospital are you at? Were at the private hospital we booked earlier, Ste answered truthfully. Alright, well be there right away, Be assured her before hanging up.


    Within moments, Be and Whitney arrived, apanied by a distinguished- Looking man with silver hair.


    A doctor came out of the emergency room, and upon seeing the silver-haired man, he was taken aback.


    He immediately recognized him as Bradly Taylor, a renowned neurosurgeon in Dorburn.


    Wasting no time, Bradly inquired about Matthews condition and offered a few reassuring words to Whitney before following the doctor into the emergency room.


    Ste turned to Whitney, her voice brimming with gratitude.


    Whitney, I dont Know how to thank you.


    Without your help, Id bepletely lost.


    Whitney smiled warmly.


    Ste, theres no need for thanks. Im just d I could be of help.


    Less than half an hourter, Bradly emerged from the emergency room, but his expression was grave.


    Facing Ste and the others, he spoke slowly.


    Matthews test results are concerning.


    Theres a blood clot in his brain.


    If we dont operate soon, it could be life-threatening.


    However, the surgeryes with significant risks.


    If it fails, Matthew might lose his life.


    Even if it seeds, the best-case scenario could leave him in a vegetative state.


    Stes face turned ashen as the weight of Bradlys words sank in, and her body trembled slightly.