Chapter 242
In the frosty temperatures of Stonebridge, the stream kept babbling along, hinting at some hidden insulation that kept it from freezing over and banishing the chill from the air.
The gardens showcased the seasons beautifully. Led through a courtyard adorned with bridges over the gently flowing water, they passed through several archways, each opening to a different kind of orchard. Instead of roses, these were full of varieties of apple and cherry trees, each section boasting its unique hue, from the deep reds of the Gala apples to the soft pinks of the cherry blossoms.
Dr. Yates couldn’t help but muse. “The wealthy can be so different. The nouveau riche often goes for ostentatious luxury, but those with deep-rooted family histories, whose wealth spanned generations, seek tradition and refinement. This Mr. Richardson’s background must be extraordinary.”
“There are some things that even a mountain of money can’t bag. Like this garden, an oasis of calm in the pricey urban sprawl, owning such a vast area here is no small feat. And to think, ninety percent of it is dedicated to these landscapes. There was no way the restaurant’s earnings alone could maintain such an extensive garden. It’s purely a playground for the rich.”
Leanne listened quietly, offering no comment.
The garden belonged to the Richardson family.
The Richardson family had an ancestor who was particularly fond of classic Lavero gardens, so the Richardson Manor was built to win her heart despite being far from the
east.
Their establishment, Alpine Elegance, though not as historically significant as the Richardson Manor, was constructed with a tranquil and refined charm.
Leanne often visited with Curtis, enjoying the local cuisine that reminded her of Lavero’s culinary delights.
Upon reaching a section blooming with green apples, a woman in an elegant dress ascended the steps and pushed open the ornately carved wooden doors, releasing a warm scent of spiced cider into the crisp air.
She paused outside, respectfully inviting them in.
Following Dr. Yates, Leanne entered, and the door closed softly behind her.
They walked past a beautifully carved wooden screen and saw a round table.
Curtis was there, leisurely enjoying a cup of cider.
The aroma of the cider filled the room, and he lounged comfortably, like a hunter waiting patiently for his prey.
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His gaze casually swept over her, and a slight smile curled on his lips. “Pleasure to meet
you.”
Dr. Yates echoed the sentiment. “Indeed, a pleasure. I didn’t expect Mr. Richardson to be so young and handsome.”
Curtis offered a compliment in return. “And Dr. Yates, you’re much younger than I imagined. I thought an expert of your renown would be at least sixty to have achieved
such stature.”
Dr. Yates chuckled, his face crinkling with smiles. “Oh, you’re too kind.”
Leanne stood aside, her face expressionless as they exchanged pleasantries.
Curtis tried to appear friendly and kind, charming Dr. Yates into feeling like they were long-lost friends, momentarily forgetting Leanne’s presence.
Then, turning to Leanne with exaggerated formality, Curtis said, “And this must be Mrs. Brown’s attending physician.”
“Oh, yes,” Dr. Yates remembered, hastily introducing them.
Curtis extended his hand gracefully. “I’ve heard much about you, Dr. Castillo.”
Leanne looked at him for several seconds before unwillingly shaking his hand, her grasp brief and reluctant.
As she withdrew her hand, Curtis subtly squeezed her fingertips.
Before Leanne could frown, he had already let go.
Dr. Yates was puzzled and asked, “By the way, where’s your wife today?”
Curtis’ lips curled into a knowing smirk. “She’ll be here later.”
Leanne eyed him suspiciously, wondering what game he was playing.
The meal included mushroom soup, beef steak, shrimp, and Leanne’s favorite, a honey-glazed apple pie.
Throughout the meal, Dr. Yates dominated the conversation, with Curtis occasionally steering the topic toward Belinda’s condition, showing meticulous concern.
But Leanne was sparing with her words as if speaking more than necessary would cost her.
Suddenly, Dr. Yates excused himself to take a phone call, returning with apologies to Curtis. “Mr. Richardson, I’m sorry, but one of my patients has had an emergency. I must head back immediately.”
Curtis was understanding. “Of course, the patient comes first.”
Dr. Yates addressed Leanne, “Leanne, you’re familiar with Jada and her mother’s situation.
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Chapter 242
Please entertain Mr. and Mrs. Richardson. I’ll catch up with you later.”
Knowing Dr. Yates wouldn’t return, Leanne glanced at Curtis, who dropped all pretenses when the door closed behind the doctor.
“Inviting you to dinner seems to require going the extra mile,” he quipped, pulling a chair for her. “Come, sit here.”
Leanne remained unmoved. “The table’s not the equator. I can speak from here, and you’ll hear me just fine.”
Curtis feigned hurt. “What? Your coldness has wounded my ears. They haven’t healed yet, and I can’t hear you well. Maybe come closer?”
Leanne remained silent, unamused by his attempt at levity.
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