Chapter: 107
Madeline laughed lightly and said, "Norah is part of the Cardiac Surgery Department. However, it seems she's not too popular with the patients. Hardly anyone schedules appointments with her. Perhaps her romantic life keeps her too occupied."
Derek's response was frosty. "Norah's competence in medicine? I knew her abilities in the kitchen and on the racing track, but medicine? It sounds like someone's handed her an easy job there to pass the time."
He grew more disdainful, saying, "She concealed her true self from us. I didn't notice a thing."
Madeline proposed, "Why not proceed with the divorce process, Derek? It might smooth things over with your grandma. But make sure Norah leaves with nothing from the promise you made. I doubt Norah cares about those things you had offered, and even if you give her those, she might still feel upset you didn't give enough."
After a moment of thought, Derek consented, “Alright.” He resolved to grant Norah's wish for a divorce without delay.
Norah stood waiting at the hospital's entrance for Aikin, prepared to engage him in a “friendly” chat.
People walking past couldn't resist stealing glances of admiration at Norah standing by the roadside. Even without makeup, she could catch people's eye just by being there.
In the back seat, Sean spotted Norah. Dressed in a simple outfit, her gaze downcast and her face expressionless, she waited with crossed arms, a picture of restlessness.
Sean contemplated approaching as a tall, lean figure exited the hospital. Norah walked up to him, initiating a conversation.
Seeing Sean's somber reflection, Phillip asked, "Mr. Scott, Miss Wilson is right there. Should we head over?"
"Let's follow them," Sean instructed, his demeanor chilly as he tightened his grip slightly.
Aikin, taken aback by Norah's presence, said, “Dr. Wilson, you were waiting for me? I didn't think you'd go out of your way for me."
Norah looked up, coolly stating, "Stop pretending. You've been spreading rumors, expecting me to seek you out, right?"
Aikin, bewildered, responded, "Dr. Wilson, I'm not sure what you mean. I'm truly lost here."
"Keep up the act, why don't you!" Norah couldn't help but tease, "You've got quite the talent. Ever considered skipping medicine for a career in showbiz? You'd probably make more money than a doctor."
Aikin faced her, innocence written all over his face, and said, "Dr. Wilson, is there a chance you've got the wrong idea about me? I'm clueless about what you're implying. Medicine is my passion. I'd appreciate it if you didn't demean my aspirations. Even if you're someone I admire, I can't let that slide."
Norah frowned, thinking he genuinely didn't know about the rumor or that his act was flawless.
Norah didn't beat around the bush and said, "Dr. Rivera, let's get one thing straight from our conversation earlier today. We can exchange insights on medicine, but that's where the line is drawn. Whether you're feigning ignorance or not, why spread rumors claiming I'm your girlfriend?"
She chuckled and said, "Do you think I'm too laid-back to confront it? Assuming I'd let it slide? But you're mistaken, Dr. Rivera. I'm not one to keep my cool easily. You might not like the outcome if we don't clear this up promptly tomorrow."
Their standoff took place beneath the trees at the hospital's entryway, the air charged with an unmistakable tension.
When Norah openly challenged him, Aikin wasn't the least bit flustered. He simply locked eyes with her, unashamed. "I haven't said a word, Dr. Wilson. All I did was express my fondness for you and desire to win your heart. The rumors? Those are the doing of others. Why blame me?"
Had Gil not shared Aikin's words with her, Norah could have fallen for his deception.
Aikin was the picture of composure, wearing an innocent look. To Norah, he was at fault, yet he effortlessly played innocent.
Witnessing his act, she was reminded of someone else equally without shame. That individual was as deceitful as Aikin.