Hiding Behind Her Superficiality by Kyla Olson

“One month?” Elspeth asked.

Anya scoffed. “I knew it. You can’t do it at all. One month is a long time. If you can’t make any changes by then, how dare you claim that you can heal him?!”

“One month is too long. His wound would’ve healed on its own by then. All I need is two weeks,” Elspeth replied. The other woman was shocked to hear this. “Two weeks? That’s fast. You’re lying, aren’t you? You’re just trying to run away, right?”

“If I wanted to run, I could’ve done it the moment he got injured. Frank saved me, so I’ll make sure he is completely healed.” Even though Elspeth sounded convincing, Michael immediately protested against her words, “You’re just a young lady. What do you know about treating others? I know you’re an impressive woman, but you don’t have to take responsibility for everything. You’re getting too big for your boots.” He clearly didn’t believe Elspeth. “I’ve already contacted another doctor, and the doctor will come over to treat Frank after we’ve come to an agreement.”

“Who’s the doctor?” she asked.

Michael told her the doctor’s full name in case she didn’t know who he was. “It’s Sonny Schwartz,” he uttered. It was Sonny again. She gazed at the older man as she replied in a calm tone, “It has been seven years since Sonny emerged from the hills. He’s not going to come out to save anyone.” Only if I’m the one who asks him, she thought.

“I don’t care how much it costs. I’m going to get the man to come over.” Michael had an abundance of money. He was willing to spend anything for his precious grandson. Elspeth felt like laughing at his words. “If you don’t believe me, you can always try calling him. You can ask if he is willing to come over.”

Michael sensed a challenge, and he didn’t want to be shamed in front of others. So, he dialed Sonny’s number and put him on loudspeaker. “Am I speaking to Mr. Schwartz?” he asked politely once the call connected.

It sounded rather chaotic on the other end of the line. People were arguing with one another. “Hey! You’re not allowed to change your move in chess. What are you doing, Sonny?!”

to get his voice across the call. “Yes, this is Sonny speaking. What’s

Michael Joneson, and I’d like to hire you to treat my grandson. Would you be free to

I’m not in the country. I won’t be able to

want me to pay. I’ll pay you any amount you want,” Michael

I’m impressed that you managed to get my phone number. Anyway, I haven’t left the hills in a

face turned sour when he heard the other man’s words. He was about to end the call when Elspeth edged closer to speak in her clear and crisp voice, “You’re

but he seemed a lot warmer after hearing Elspeth’s voice. Everyone apart from Spencer seemed utterly shocked. “It doesn’t matter what I’m

your abilities? You’re my very own mentee, and you’re a smart girl. I’d be honored if you told others you were my student after you treated them… Wait, your brother? Are you from the

feel like I’m just a tool you summon whenever you need me! You can treat whatever illness your brother has. I trust you. I’m going to end the call now. I

and he sounded like he was rushing to get back to playing chess. Michael was completely silent at that point. He parted his lips to speak, but when he saw the nonchalant look on Elspeth’s face, he couldn’t bring himself to say much. Meanwhile, Anya, who had intended to strike a bet with Elspeth earlier, looked utterly embarrassed by herself. I can’t believe she is Sonny’s mentee. Most people never get to meet the legendary doctor in their lives, yet Elspeth simply

treat Frank now, Grandfather?”

choice but to let out a sigh. “The youngsters nowadays are pretty impressive after all… Fine. I’ll trust you with Frank.” Despite saying that, he couldn’t help

She had no intention of explaining herself to the man—all she could think of now was how she should treat Frank. “I think you guys shouldn’t visit Frank for the next few days. Even if you guys show up, you will have to look at him through the glass window without entering the room. I don’t want anyone to be in contact with him. His wounds are still fresh, and I’m worried he might

her words more seriously