The Substitute Bride

To further boost his grandson's image, Craig announced, "Anthony will soon begin working at Y Hospital with his preferred salary." The elder physician said, "I just accompanied him to make things easier and also to take a short vacation in Y City before finally returning home."

After listening to Craig, Arthur suddenly felt much relieved to learn that Anthony was just as skilled as his grandfather. "Thank you, my friend, for the reassurance. And to you Anthony, I am leaving Autumn in your care. I trust you will take good care of her."

Anthony bowed. "Grandpa Arthur, please put your mind at ease. As you are my grandfather's old friend, I promise to put my heart and soul to ensure Autumn will get a proper treatment." He remained composed even as his heart swelled with pride over his grandfather's words.

On their drive back home, Autumn was in a cheerful mood. Charles really hoped Anthony can help his wife to heal.

After several minutes of silence, Autumn spoke up. "Charles, tomorrow I can go to Y Hospital for treatment by myself." She wanted to prove she could be independent again.

But Charles, ever protective of his wife, dismissed the idea. Quite roughly, he expressed his concern. "I don't see any advantage of allowing you to go to the hospital by yourself."

He added, "I will feel better if I accompany you to Y Hospital tomorrow, given your delicate condition." Autumn was ready to argue. "But, I'm strong enough to do that." She hoped to convince her husband to trust her to go by herself.

Charles drummed his fingers on the steering wheel while thinking. Finally, he proposed, "Here is my suggestion. I will accompany you to see the doctor for the first time. If his diagnosis shows that you are sound enough to be by yourself, I will go back to the office to take care of business. Is that acceptable to you?"

Autumn heaved a sigh of relief. "That's definitely okay with me, " she told her husband.

It was 10:00 p.m. by the time they got home. Nancy was waiting for Autumn's arrival and was quite impatient as she went to greet the couple. Autumn was surprised to see Nancy still awake that late. "Nancy, why have you not slept yet?" she asked with concern.

Autumn noticed Nancy looked a bit anxious.

"I was waiting for you, Autumn, " said she. Nancy rarely smiled, but this time she had a sincere one for Autumn. "I made these baby clothes during my spare time and wanted

n three times a day. More importantly, be sure she comes in to visit every three days, " Anthony told Autumn's husband. Then remembering Autumn's concern, he suggested, "She is not in any danger despite her present condition. She should remain stable unless there is trouble. It would be best to treat her like a normal person. Excessive displays of concern would only stress her out."

Charles frowned a little and asked again. "So you mean my wife won't become unstable like she has been before?" Anthony patted Charles' arm in reassurance.

"She'll be fine, " he said with a smile. Charles let out a breath.

Before going home, Charles filled Autumn's prescription at a Chinese medicine pharmacy. When they got home, he saw Edward come to visit. Nancy had prepared a sumptuous meal and invited the couple to join the dinner. But Charles claimed they had already eaten and helped Autumn to the couch.

Autumn felt it was no longer necessary for Charles to protect her from Nancy, but she still appreciated his kindness and concern.

Nancy understood that she was dismissed and left without another word. Left alone, Autumn focused on Edward's state of mind instead.

Edward looked so different since the last time he visited. 'Something must have happened, ' Autumn thought.

Chris said, "Dad, I've been wanting to ask you… How have you been dealing with Rachel?" The same question had been asked by Chris previously, and he had been unable to answer then. He sat motionless for several minutes. The truth was he had almost forgotten about Rachel. "Rachel? I have not seen her for quite a long time."