Chapter 47

“Thank you, Mr. Baldrick!” Claire’s voice was all sweetness, like she’d just dipped

her words in honey. She wasn’t actually his grandson’s wife, but she couldn’t help enjoying the way he treated her, like she was his own granddaughter.

“Dane told me your rheumatism is pretty bad. I can make medicinal wine, but first, how about I check your pulse p>

She’d just accepted his generous welcome gift, but Claire hadn’t forgotten the real reason she was here.

Baldrick already knew a little about her. His grandson had mentioned over the phone that Hale was gone, and Claire was one of his youngest students.

“Of course,” Baldrick replied, settling into his seat and offering his wrist.

Claire reached for his pulse, moving with a confidence that made it obvious she really knew her stuff. Even though her face still had that youthful softness, the way she focused was all business and maturity.

Once she finished, she knelt down to look at Baldrick’s legs. His knees were swollen and red, the cartilage so worn it was almost gone. If he kept walking around like this, she guessed he’d be stuck in a wheelchair within three years.

She straightened up and looked serious. “Your legs are in pretty rough shape p>

“You’ve probably been getting treatment, but with so many flare-ups, it’s not as effective anymore p>

Baldrick nodded. “You’re right. I’ve seen all kinds of doctors, both traditional and Western. They can help with the pain, but nobody’s cured it p>

“Medicinal wine will help with the pain,” Claire said, “but it won’t fix the real problem p>

“Then what will?” Baldrick asked, his eyes full of hope.

“When Hale was still alive, we used a mix of herbal baths and acupuncture, plus his special wine. It worked wonders for rheumatism p>

Claire had an answer ready, and there was real confidence behind her words.

“Do you know acupuncture?” Baldrick watched her closely, almost like he was afraid to get his hopes up.

“I learned it from my teacher. I know a little,” Claire replied quietly. The truth was, she’d learned from more than just Hale, but her teachers had all taught her to stay humble and never brag.

Baldrick wasn’t sure what “a little” meant.

Abbott, who’d been quietly watching nearby, spoke up. “Claire’s just being modest she learned so much from Hale especially acupuncture He always said she had the steadiest hands p>

“By the way, who are you?” Baldrick asked, realizing Abbott hadn’t introduced himself.

Claire took care of it. “Abbott is a good friend of my teacher’s, and also the hospital’s vice president p>

Baldrick smiled. “So you’re a friend of Hale’s. It’s good to meet you, Abbott p>

“Would you like me to check your pulse too?” Abbott offered.

Baldrick glanced at Claire, looking for her opinion.

Claire gave him a reassuring smile “Abbott is an amazing doctor, a real

heavyweight in traditionaleine.

Honestly, you’d be lucky to have him check you over

With Claire’s encouragement, Baldrick agreed. “Alright, I’d appreciate that p>

Abbott’s skills were just as impressive. He even pointed out a few minor health issues Baldrick hadn’t noticed before.

Baldrick couldn’t help but sigh. “Traditional medicine really is one of our greatest treasures. It’s incredible p>

Abbott grinned. “Wait until you try Claire’s acupuncture. Then you’ll really see why it’s so special p>

Baldrick looked tempted. “Should we give it a try p>

Before anyone could answer, Jack jumped in. “Mr. Baldrick, maybe I should try it first p>

“You? But you don’t even have rheumatism,” Baldrick shot back.

He glanced over at Pandora,

suddenly aware of her presence. He wasn’t worried about Claire, but Pandora was another story. Back in her day she’d been a real force. If anyone looked down omber granddaughter, she wouldn’t hesitate to put them in their place.

“If Jack wants to try it, that’s fine with me,” Claire said, her tone easy.