Chapter 281
Outside the room, Candice spotted Brad walking up.
She stood quickly. “They’re going crazy over your health.”
Brad paused in front of her. “You waited just for me?”
Candice pressed her lips together, then said, “Some think you’re not fit to lead the operation. To shut them up, you need to pass a full medical evaluation.”
“That machine’s results are never questioned.”
Brad met her gaze calmly. “And?”
“I don’t want you to lose your command. I’ll do whatever I can to help,” Candice said.
“How?” Brad asked.
Candice’s eyes lit up with a glimmer of hope. Her tone softened. “My family keeps pressuring me to get married. And the family banquet is next week. Just come with me — pretend to be my date.”
She paused, then added with a small smile, “Would that work?”
“No.” Brad rejected firmly. His face remained unreadable. “I don’t want any misunderstandings between me and my girlfriend.”
Candice stiffened, taking a small step back. “Fine, but I have to say sorry. I only work on equal terms. I hope you’ll pass the medical examination.”
While voices in the conference room grew louder, the door suddenly opened. Brad’s tall frame stood in the doorway.
“No need to argue. According to protocol, a medical exam is required. Let’s follow the rules,” he said.
He walked in, each step heavy with purpose. His sharp eyes swept across the room like a blade before stopping on Jaxon. The echo of his boots filled the silence, tapping against the nerves of everyone present.
All the officers stood and saluted at once. Jaxon returned the salute and said, “I’m not targeting you. We’re not just officers — we’re friends. I just want things to run smoothly at the oilfield.”
“I get it. Go ahead and inspect me. I’m also curious to see just how far the top-tier medical tech on our warship can go,” Brad replied.
Jaxon narrowed his eyes. Brad’s quick agreement raised a red flag. “Rest assured, General. This test is being handled by Ronan’s top team. There won’t be any errors.”
“Good,” Brad said flatly.
The Army Commander-in-Chief stayed quiet. He had seen that Candice’s face darkened when Brad entered.
He was aware of her feelings and knew she wanted to force Brad into being her boyfriend. But clearly, she had underestimated the pride of a seasoned soldier — one who wouldn’t bend to personal feelings.
With that, the group made their way to the warship’s medical bay for the examination.
Ronan’s team was already waiting, and he welcomed them with a professional smile. “This battlefield medical system not only saves lives in combat, but also provides highly accurate check-ups — 99% accuracy, to be exact. Don’t worry, General. With your condition, you should pass easily.”
Brad glanced at him, and Ronan felt an unexpected chill crawl down his spine.
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