Chapter 98

Chapter 98

Aspen smiled gently as he pulled out the preliminary draft contract from his briefcase.

“Feel free to review our proposed collaboration,” he said. “I understand that herbal medicine prescriptions can vary for each individual, so I’ve designed formulas that can be mass–produced and are generally suitable.”

Gisele, still processing the proposal, eventually accepted the contract. She found herself pleasantly surprised by Aspen’s profound understanding of partnership dynamics within the herbal medicine field.

Gisele nervously clutched the papers, her mind racing as she struggled to find the right words, feeling tongue–tied.

Together, they walked out of the manor.

“Gisele, there’s no need to be so anxious. Let’s approach this like any other partnership. Oh, and regarding payment, it will be directly deposited into your account. Is that alright?” Aspen paused, turning to face her.

Despite feeling a bit uneasy, Gisele reluctantly agreed. She smiled gratefully and said, Thank you, Mr. Witham. I’ll put in my best effort and won’t let you down.”

“What’s with the formality?” Aspen couldn’t help but chuckle at Gisele addressing him as Mr. Witham“, shaking his head with a smile.

After bidding Aspen farewell at the door, Gisele began to pack up her things as she prepared to head back.

However, as soon as she turned around, she noticed Sandra standing in the doorway, quietly observing her.

Politely, Gisele approached Sandra, nodding with a smile. Just as Gisele was about to pass by, Sandra asked abruptly, “What do you think of my son?”

“Huh?” Gisele exclaimed in surprise, turning to face Sandra.

Observing Sandra’s serious expression, Gisele could only reluctantly contemplate her question. Eventually, she replied in a professional tone, “Mr. Witham is a very kind person; he’s gentle and outstanding.”

Sandra then asked bluntly, “Do you have feelings for him?”

Gisele blinked in shock, her long, thick lashes fluttering. Her mind went momentarily blank, and she blurted out, “No, definitely not. We’re not compatible in that way.”

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Sandra’s smile faded slightly at Gisele’s words, a hint of regret coloring her tone. “t understand. But it might be worth considering,” she remarked before leaving.

Still standing in the same spot, Gisele watched Sandra’s silhouette fade into the distance, her mind swirling with confusion. What was Sandra trying to convey by urging Gisele to reconsider her feelings for Aspen?

Nonetheless, Gisele was a married woman, and on top of that, Aspen and Dorlan were good friends….

Setting aside these conflicting thoughts, Gisele packed up her belongings and prepared to

leave.

She had scheduled a meeting with a senior from Hearthfield Medical University, mainly to discuss the assessment criteria for admission into Silas‘ program.

Their chosen venue was a private restaurant owned by a divorced single mother, known for its distinctive blend of northern and southern regional flavors, as well as its diverse selection of international cuisines.

In Hearthfield, only true food enthusiasts could uncover this hidden culinary gem.

Despite its small size, the restaurant operated exclusively by reservation. Without Gisele’s connection to the owner, securing a booking would have been challenging.

Hailing a taxi, Gisele arrived at the restaurant around 11:30 am. In the vicinity, numerous other eateries advertised themselves as private kitchens, each offering a variety of cuisines.

As Gisele stood by the entrance, her phone rang.

Checking the caller ID, she promptly answered. “Mavis?”

“Gisele, I’m truly sorry, but something unexpected has come up. I might not be able to make it today,” Mavis‘ voice conveyed a sense of urgency.

Taking a moment to catch her breath, she continued, “But don’t worry, I’ll arrange for one of Professor Lyons‘ students to reach out to you. He just got admitted last year, so he should have a better understanding of Professor Lyons‘ expectations.”

Feeling somewhat disheartened, Gisele flashed a sheepish smile and remarked, “Mavis, do you think I might be bothering him?”

“No, not at all. He’s quite accommodating. I’ll forward you his contact details. He should be on his way,” Mavis apologized again and suggested planning for lunch together soon.

Once the call ended, Gisele’s spirits lifted slightly. If she does get admitted to study under

Chapter 98

Silas this

year,

the person coming to meet her would be her senior.