The crowd's breath hitched when they recognized the emblem of MDH Pharmaceutical Research Institute.
It was the most secretive medical organization in M-Country!
Ian adjusted his cuffs with elegant precision. "Excuse me. This patient exhibits violent tendencies and requires immediate psychiatric hospitalization."
His wrist flicked with professional grace as he displayed his credentials. No one questioned the expert's judgment—who would want to confront a knife-wielding psychotic?
When Ian called for backup to restrain Leo Carter, reporters immediately swarmed Liam Winston and Chloe Evans.
"Did Mr. Winston authorize Ms. Evans to frame Sophia Sullivan?"
"Has the competition between Breeze Perfumes escalated to slander?"
"How does the Winston Group respond to recent negative publicity?"
Chloe's carefully orchestrated media ambush had backfired spectacularly. Microphones jabbed at their faces like weapons.
But Liam's attention had already followed Ian. The appearance of MDH offered hope for his mother's recovery—public relations disasters paled in comparison.
He shoved through the reporters, dragging Chloe behind him.
"Wait!"
Liam intercepted Ian just as he was entering the vehicle. "I'm the CEO of Winston Group. My mother suffers from neuropathic headaches. Name your price for treatment."
Ian touched his institute badge. "I'm afraid that's impossible."
His gaze swept over Chloe's ashen face. "My medical ethics forbid treating individuals of questionable character."
Liam's smile froze. This was blatant humiliation!
Yet MDH's top specialist had effectively pronounced his mother's death sentence. He opened his mouth to protest, but Ian's car door slammed shut.
"Brother, how could Sophia command MDH doctors..." Chloe clutched Liam's sleeve, voice trembling. "No matter how much she hates us, using Mother's illness for revenge is too cruel."
Liam punched the wall. His knuckles turned crimson instantly.
"I misjudged her completely!"
Now their only hope rested in The Nexus. He refused to believe Sophia's connections were the sole path to a cure.
...
Inside the ambulance, Ian administered sedatives to the unconscious Leo. "Patient exhibits extreme violent tendencies," he told the attending physician. "Maximum restraint protocols recommended."
His eyes glinted coldly as he studied Leo's contorted features.
The memory of that knife nearly piercing Sophia's chest ignited murderous impulses. A psychiatric hospital was far too lenient for this madman.
A plan took shape—he'd visit the psychiatric facility tonight. This psychopath would never harm anyone again.