Chapter 67
The club’s racetrack was packed with thousands of spectators watching the races. Horse racing has always been a favorite pastime
the wealthy, both locally and internationally, with
betting being the most talked–about aspect of the sport.
Lauren walked arm–in–arm with Andrew to the premium viewing deck, with Francesca close behind. This exclusive area was reserved for lifetime club members, and everyone seated there was either wealthy or influential.
In the center of the deck, Jayrodale’s mayor, Mark Thatcher, sat surrounded by his staff, intently watching the races below. It was common knowledge that while the mayor had many interests, horse racing was his true passion.
“Mr. Thatcher, what a pleasure to see you here!” Lauren stepped forward to greet him.
Mark adjusted his glasses and smiled. “Ah, Lauren! How’s Mr. Rhodes Senior doing these days?
“Thank you for asking, Mr. Thatcher. Grandpa’s doing quite well!”
Mark nodded, but his expression changed to surprise when he noticed Andrew. “Lauren, my dear, when did you start dating? Tell me more about the lucky young man. Which family is he from? Is he a rising star in the industry?”
Before Lauren could respond; someone behind Mark let out a cold laugh. “Mr. Thatcher, he’s neither from a prestigious family nor worthy of being called an industry prodigy.”
“Surely anyone who caught the eye of Jayrodale’s most eligible bachelorette must be extraordinary. Don’t be shy, Lauren, introduce him to us!” Mark urged with a smile.
The man continued his mockery. “Mr. Thatcher, you’re mistaken this time. He’s nothing special. He’s just a doctor at Jayrodale General Hospital with no background or achievements. He just got lucky enough to catch Ms. Rhodes‘ attention.”
Standing behind Mark was none other than Bernard, the deputy chief of Jayrodale General Hospital. Before Andrew’s group arrived, Bernard had been busy flattering Mark. When he saw Andrew, his resentment was reignited.
“Who I choose to be with hardly seems like your concern, Dr. Hackett,” Lauren snapped, irritated by Bernard’s nasty tone.
Bernard let out a sigh. “My apologies if I’ve upset you, Ms. Rhodes. However, I can’t help but think it’s a pity. A distinguished lady like you should at least be with Mr. Thatcher’s son!”
Mark’s expression instantly darkened. His son had once pursued Lauren, which he had strongly supported, given their equal social standing. However, Lauren had rejected his son without a second thought, a blow to his pride as Jayrodale’s leader.
Though Mark had eventually accepted the outcome, seeing Lauren with a mere doctor felt like
Chapter 67
an insult. It was as if his son was not even as goo
Mark said cautiously, “Lauren, while we elders sh relationships, given my friendship with the Rho fine to have fun, just don’t take it too seriously.”
With that, Mark returned his attention to the rac
Bernard shot Andrew a poisonous glare, his eyes you get for crippling Philip and destroying his fu
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Chapter 67
an insult. It was as if his son was not even as good as this mere physician.
Márk said cautiously, “Lauren, while we elders shouldn’t interfere in young people’s relationships, given my friendship with the Rhodes family, let me give you some advice: it’s fine to have fun, just don’t take it too seriously.”
With that, Mark returned his attention to the race, ignoring Andrew entirely,
Bernard shot Andrew a poisonous glare, his eyes filled with malice as he thought, ‘That’s what you get for crippling Philip and destroying his future!’
