Chapter 16
Chapter 16:
Over time, there was a significant improvement in Selena’s health. Hospital evaluations confirmed her condition had improved remarkably, bringing immense joy to the Campbell sisters.
Aware of the severity of her previous state, Selena regarded her recovery as something akin to a miracle. Following her medical examination, she eagerly approached Ashton.
With a look of deep appreciation, she expressed her gratitude. “Ashton, thank you so much! Without your intervention, I doubt I would have survived p>
Rosalie, accompanying her sister, also shared her heartfelt thanks. “Dr. Baldwin, your efforts have restored my sister’s health. If there’s ever anything you need, please feel free to ask. I am indebted to you and ready to assist in any way possible p>
Ashton had recently gained insights about the Campbell family through conversations with Garrett. He noted Rosalie’s dedication as a successful CEO and her protective nature toward her sister, which he found admirable. This stood in stark contrast to Emalee, who had always underestimated him, enhancing his favorable impression of Rosalie.
With a gentle smile, he responded, “Miss Campbell, you’re very gracious, but really, it’s simply my responsibility as a physician. However, if you genuinely wish to express your gratitude, perhaps you could address me as Ashton instead of Dr. Baldwin p>
Rosalie’s cheeks tinged with a soft blush as she replied more softly, “In that case, please call me Rosalie instead of Miss Campbell p>
Observing this exchange, Selena couldn’t resist teasing, “Rosalie, you’re blushing! I’ve never seen you look so bashful before p>
Feeling slightly embarrassed yet amused, Rosalie playfully pinched Selena’s cheek and retorted, “You little troublemaker, always teasing your sister p>
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Ashton watched their lighthearted banter with a warm smile. However, his demeanor soon shifted to a more solemn tone as he addressed Rosalie.
“Even though Selena is showing great signs of recovery, her healing process isn’t complete yet. She must continue her treatment regimen. Here’s a prescription I’ve prepared. Please ensure she follows the dosage instructions and takes her medication daily. If there’s anything more you need, don’t hesitate to reach out. My work here is done for now, so I will be leaving p>
He handed the prescription to Rosalie and then made his way toward the exit.
Rosalie quickly called after him, “Wait! I haven’t even compensated you for the consultation fee I promised.” Ashton paused, turned around with a reassuring smile, and responded, “There’s no need for that. My practice isn’t driven by financial gain p>
Rosalie paused momentarily, then quickly added, “But you and Mr. Howard have been instrumental in saving Selena’s life. The least I can do is invite you both to dinner. Please, don’t decline this gesture p>
Garrett, who had been observing quietly, chuckled and gestured dismissively. “Miss Campbell, your offer is overly generous. Honestly, I didn’t contribute much, and I have two surgical procedures lined up for tomorrow that cannot be postponed. Why not just extend your invitation to Dr. Baldwin p>
With a kind smile and a glance toward Ashton, he bade his farewells. This left the invitation open for a dinner between just the two of them.
Having recently ended his marriage, Ashton felt slightly uncomfortable. However, seeing Rosalie’s expectant look, he gave the idea a second thought. Being on his own, accepting a dinner invitation didn’t seem inappropriate after all. Thus, he nodded in agreement.
Rosalie exhaled a sigh of relief and playfully winked at Ashton. “Now you’re committed. This is the first time I’ve invited a man to dinner. You better not stand me up!” she said with a teasing grin.
The mood in the room became much lighter.
Upon overhearing the conversation, Selena peeked at Ashton, her gaze filled with both gratitude and a newfound curiosity about the man who had played a pivotal role in her recovery.
For years, Rosalie had maintained a stern and distant facade in public settings. For the first time, Rosalie revealed a gentler aspect of herself in front of Ashton, which marked a significant departure from her usual demeanor.
In the background, unbeknownst to others, Selena began to hatch a plan quietly in her mind.
The following day, at Rosalie’s suggestion, Ashton made his way to the Modern Restaurant.
Although it was his first visit, he was aware of its reputation as one of Inewood’s most esteemed private dining establishments.
Upon arriving, he paused to appreciate the restaurant’s exterior. The building showcased traditional architectural styles, radiating a timeless elegance and a stately charm. Clearly, Rosalie had selected a distinguished venue for their dinner.
However, Ashton’s initial pleasure was short-lived. As he approached the entrance, he unexpectedly encountered Phillip and Emalee.
Phillip was intimately close to Emalee, guiding her toward the restaurant’s entrance.
Catching a glimpse of a familiar silhouette in the reflection of the glass door, Phillip abruptly turned around, locking eyes with Ashton. His expression shifted immediately, displaying a blend of contempt and a smug sense of victory.
Emalee noticed Ashton, and her expression quickly soured as well.
Confronting him directly, she stated, “Ashton, we’re divorced. There’s nothing left between us. Why are you here following us around? Are you trying to stalk us p>