Chapter 169
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Just as they were at a standstill, an abrupt ringtone broke the tension between them. Alex let go of Ellie to answer the call, and she hurriedly slid the door shut behind her.
“Even if you’re not feeling well, don’t just take any meds!” Alex’s voice was full of urgency and concern. “I’ll be back soon!”
Seeing the worry on Alex’s face and the evident concern in his tone, Ellie turned her back on him.
After hanging up, Alex looked at Ellie, who was quietly standing by the door with her back to him, her slender figure rigid and distant.
Even from behind, he could sense her icy demeanor.
His heart tightened as if something was lodged in his throat, making it difficult to speak. Just then, his phone buzzed again, prompting him to turn and leave.
A few days later, with just three days left until the family banquet organized by the Warrens, Ellie askes for leave to prepare.
After trying on dresses with Nancy that morning, Ellie encountered Mark.
At a Western restaurant near the city center, Mark extended his hand to Ellie.
“Don’t rush to say no just yet. Although the initial setup for the hospital is mostly done, it will still take two to three years before it’s fully operational. You have plenty of time to think it over.”
“Thanks, Mark, but I can work for you, just not as an investor. I really don’t have the capital,” Ellie replied, projecting an air of confidence, even though she felt terribly awkward inside.
Mark had already earned his PhD during her college years and held a prestigious position in plastic surgery.
People from all over, including elites from various countries, sought him out, but he was quite laid–back, performing only one surgery a week for a hefty fee.
The private hospital he was setting up was located on the busiest commercial street in Jaslands, and rumors had it that the land was a gift from his grandfather. The initial investment was no less than a billion dollars.
Everyone wanted to make money, but she had no idea to yield the funds needed for investing.
Mark seemed to sense her hesitation, smiling as he said, “If you’re worried about losing money, you can take a technical stake. If it flops, it’s on me, but if it makes a profit, you’ll get a share.”
Dressed in a stylish yet understated ensemble perfect for the season, Mark smiled, his warmth and charm almost healing.
Ellie grasped her juice cup tightly, feeling a sense of panic. No matter how desperate she was for money, she couldn’t exploit someone else’s hard work without putting in her own effort.
“Let’s eat first, and you can think about it later,” Mark said, serving her delicately with shared utensils.
“Thanks, Mark,” Ellie smiled for a rare moment, taking the snack he offered. But just as she took a bite, she spotted Alex.
Mark stood up politely to greet Alex.
18:07 Thu, 6 Febs
Chapter 169
Alex was holding a small pink handbag with the logo of a smartphone brand on it, his gaze subtly falling on Ellie.
“I won’t interrupt you two,” Alex said, sliding into the nearest booth next to Ellie.
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He didn’t order anything or join the conversation but leaned back in his chair, deliberately staring at Ellie as she ate.
After about ten minutes, Mark sensed the tension and stood up. “I have some things to take care of. You two chat,” he said.
