Chapter 227: Elena Ward Had Just Finished Clearing the Dishes

Elena Ward had just finished clearing the dishes when urgent knocking echoed at the door.

"Who could it be at this hour?" She glanced out the window, where two shadowy figures stood amidst the swirling snow.

Adrian Stone took the dishcloth from her hands. "I'll get it."

As the door opened, a gust of icy wind swept in, carrying snowflakes. Outside stood two well-dressed men—one elderly with an air of authority, the other young and refined behind gold-rimmed glasses.

"Is Dr. Ward home?" the younger man asked urgently.

Elena peered out from behind Adrian. "That's me. Who are—"

"Dr. Ward!" The young man seized her hand, his voice trembling. "It's Nathaniel Stone! You saved my life!"

Recognition flickered in Elena's eyes—the memory of a dying young man resurfaced. Before she could respond, Adrian ushered them inside with a warm smile. "Nathaniel, come in out of the cold."

A driver followed, unloading gift boxes that soon crowded the table. Elena frowned. "Mr. Stone, this is—"

"Please don't misunderstand," Nathaniel interjected. "This is Minister Kingsley. We're here to ask for your help."

Minister Kingsley stepped forward and bowed deeply. "Dr. Ward, my father is critically ill. We beg you to save him."

Elena's pulse quickened. She studied the minister's face—his eyes brimmed with desperation.

"Minister Kingsley, I'm just an ordinary doctor—"

"Dr. Ward!" His voice cracked. "He's in the ICU. The hospitals... they say..." He choked on the words.

Nathaniel finished softly, "His condition resembles mine when you treated me. We have nowhere else to turn."

Elena looked to Adrian, who gave a slight nod. She drew a steadying breath. "Where's the patient?"

"Capital City," Minister Kingsley said hastily. "A private jet stands ready."

Her gaze shifted to the storm raging outside, then to the mountain of gifts. Something told her this wouldn't be simple.

"I need to prepare." Turning toward the bedroom, her fingers tightened around the hem of her shirt.