Chapter 26
Chapter 26:
He presented her with a premium VIP card for the restaurant.
Rylie politely refused, shaking her head. “That’s really not necessary — but thank you for the gesture p>
Her polite decline only seemed to fuel the man’s insistence — he pressed the VIP card into her hand.
Introducing himself as Clive Perry, he explained that he once served under Brad. During a fierce naval battle, a grenade had torn through the nerves in his leg, robbing him of a normal stride. Forced into retirement, he’d invested in this restaurant with his wife’s family.
“If not for this injury, I would have stood by General Morgan’s side for at least two more years,” Clive said with a note of regret. “You have to do everything you can for him — his men and this country need him p>
Those words struck a chord. Rylie accepted the VIP card, then reached into her bag for one of her business cards. “I’m based at the military compound for now. Every evening, I take patients at the clinic. If you want to discuss your leg, you’re welcome to come by p>
Emotion swept across Clive’s face, his voice trembling. “Are you saying there’s hope for my leg p>
Rylie kept her words honest and measured. “We’d need to run a full evaluation before I can make any promises. I won’t know for certain until then, but I’ll do all I can p>
He clasped her hand with gratitude. “If you’re the one who healed General Morgan, I trust you completely. If anyone can help me, it’s you p>
While their brief handshake and card exchange meant one thing to them, Phillip saw it from a different angle entirely.
A racer at the next table leaned in, eyeing Clive with suspicion. “Who’s that older guy? When did Rylie start getting close to people like him?” He shot a warning look at Phillip. “The World Rally’s almost here. If she brings drama, it could ruin our sponsorships p>
Irritation surged in Phillip. He tossed aside his napkin and strode over to intercept Rylie.
No sooner had Clive disappeared than Rylie found her exit blocked. A furious voice rang out behind her. “Rylie! Hold up p>
A hand snatched at the cake box she carried, sending it jostling against the clear plastic until the frosting smeared. Rylie’s face iced over as she regained her balance and turned. “What is your problem p>
“What’s my problem? Have you looked at yourself lately?” Phillip jabbed his finger at her shoulder, his anger barely contained. “You’ve barely been out from under the Kirk family’s roof and you’re already throwing yourself at some old man for support p>
His outburst carried through the lobby, heads turning as whispers spread.
Rylie’s patience snapped. She knocked his hand away. “People will always believe what they want. My ties with the Kirk family are cut for good, and what I do is none of your concern p>
Phillip’s scowl deepened. “The Kirk family hasn’t made it public. As far as everyone here knows, you’re still one of us,” he retorted. “I’m warning you — if you embarrass us, don’t expect to race for my team again p>