Chapter 466

The jade pendant was strung on a red cord, exquisitely crafted. Even someone with no eye for antiques could tell at a glance that this piece was incredibly precious-something money alone couldn’t buy.
Yet what truly caught the eye was the cord itself. It wasn’t new; the fibers were worn, frayed in places, carrying the undeniable marks of years spent close against someone’s skin.
That was the real mystery. For a pendant this valuable, to be worn so intimately for so long, it had to mean the world to its owner. And now, it had been given away as a gift-just like that?
As Harrison descended the stairs, Marcus immediately looked up and offered an explanation. “The box slipped and fell. Its contents spilled out, so I couldn’t help but take a peek.”
He grinned, mischief twinkling in his eyes-a charming rogue who always seemed
to be asking for trouble. “But you know, the real treasure in this box isn’t the antique pendant-it’s this.”
With a flourish, he plucked a beautifully made note from the box and waved it in front of Harrison’s face.
There were two lines, written in neat script:
**I’ll be waiting for you in Riverton.**
**Looking forward to seeing you.**
It was signed, simply, “Calderon.” Tʜe sourcᴇ of thɪs content ɪs.net
Harrison’s eyes narrowed, his entire expression turning glacial.
“Looks like someone’s after your girl, Harrison!” Mr. Jackson said, practically vibrating with excitement at the drama. “What’s Anastasia been up to out there? How’d she end up saving someone’s life? Whoever this is, they’re making a bold move-offering themselves in gratitude, huh?”
Harrison shot him a look so cold and sharp that Marcus immediately snapped his mouth shut. He cleared his throat, awkwardly rubbed his chin, and shrank back with practiced ease.
Harrison took the note, his gaze icy and severe. For a moment, he nearly crushed it in his hand-but something made him pause. With obvious effort, he forced himself to set the note back into the box.
“Ana’s not home from class yet?” His voice gave nothing away-not anger, not warmth.
Logan, standing a few steps away, could feel the dangerous tension radiating from him. Wisely, he kept his distance.
“She should be done soon,” he managed.
Remembering the camaraderie he’d shared with Mrs. Lancaster in the past, Logan considered sending her a warning text while Hamson wasn’t looking. But the moment his hand touched his phone, Harrison’s chiffing gaze landed on him.
Logan froze and sheepishly withdrew his hand, offering up a silent prayer for Mrs. Lancaster’s safety.
**Global Harmony Medical Institute**
Anastasia was still in Dr. Lockwood’s office, blissfully unaware of the drama unfolding at home.
“I was so impressed by the way you solved those problems earlier,” Dr. Lockwood said after a thoughtful discussion. “Your approach was not only brilliant, but strangely familiar. I was curious who taught you Now that I know Cecilia is your mother, I’m not surprised at all.”
She gazed at Anastasia with genuine admiration, her eyes softening with
memories of Cecilia-the legendary healer who had dazzled the world, and left it too soon.
Anastasia had spent most of the day with Dr. Lockwood, talking through medical theories and listening to stories about her mother. Through the wistful recollections of this dignified old lady, Anastasia slowly pieced together a vivid image of Cécilia: elegant, sharp, and
།
unforgettable.
Dr. Lockwood’s breadth of knowledge and open heart only deepened Anastasia’s respect for her.
“Well, it’s about time for school to let out. I won’t keep you any longer,” Dr. Lockwood said kindly, smiling as if bidding farewell to her own beloved grandchild.
Anastasia nodded and took her leave.
Outside, she noticed the time-school was over. With her heart full of anticipation, she climbed into the car to head home.
She’d only been gone for half a day, yet she was already missing Harrison.
I wonder, is my husband missing me, too?