Chapter 1391 Reduced to Ruins
"Hmm?"
Seeing the check being burned, Isabela's expression turned a bit ugly. She didn't expect Dustin to be so disrespectful, not only refusing but also burning the check. Wasn't this a blatant slap in the face?
"Hey! You, Dustin Rhys! What's your intention?" Dominic immediately became displeased and shouted, "Isabela is giving you money as a favor, and you don't know how to appreciate it!"
"Give me money, and I should accept it? Do you take me for a beggar?" Dustin sneered.
His impression of the Torby family had already become extremely negative. Whether it was Isabela's manipulation yesterday or the Torby family's attempt to repay kindness with enmity today, it had made him keenly aware of the saying "know people by their appearance but not their hearts."
"Hmph! Look at your character; what's the difference between you and a beggar?" Dominic scornfully said.
"If you dare to be disrespectful again, don't blame me for hitting you," Dustin's eyes turned cold.
"You—!"
Dominic was about to erupt, but he was restrained by Isabela, who raised her hand to stop him. She looked at Dustin quietly, her eyes gradually becoming cold.
As the eldest daughter of the Torby family, a wealthy young lady, she had never suffered any grievances wherever she went. She was willing to lower her attitude and give Dustin a chance to repent and apologize, which was already quite benevolent.
However, Dustin's ungrateful attitude was unbearable. He rejected her and behaved indifferently.
"Fine, if you don't consider me a friend, then we don't need to have any further contact," Isabela said, her eyes growing colder.
"Kid! Without Isabela's protection, do you really think you can continue to thrive in Stonia? You really don't know your place!" Dominic sneered.
Before this, he had tolerated Dustin because he was concerned about Isabela. Now that the two had fallen out, he didn't need to hold back anymore.
"Elijah, we express our sympathy for the fire at Healwell Clinic," Isabela looked at Elijah and said with feigned sincerity. "Seeing as you previously helped my grandfather, we, the Torby family, want to assist you this time."
"What do you mean by this, Miss Isabela?" Elijah frowned.
"Well, now that Healwell Clinic has turned into ruins, its past glory is gone forever," Isabela said with a serious tone. "Instead of lingering around this wasteland, I think it's better to sell it."
Elijah's expression became increasingly unpleasant as he listened.
"Considering the previous favor you showed my grandfather, I'm willing to purchase Healwell Clinic from you at market price to help you through this difficult time."
"After all, you're just hanging onto Healwell Clinic because of the fire!" Dominic chimed in.
"Sir Grantwood, please think about it carefully. The Torby family is willing to pay a fair price for Healwell Clinic. It's a token of our appreciation for your past kindness," Isabela added.
Elijah's face turned even worse.
He had initially suspected, but now he was certain that the fire at Healwell Clinic was related to these two.
"Sir Grantwood, you need to understand that I'm trying to help you," Isabela said with a solemn expression. "Healwell Clinic has been reduced to ruins, and it's no longer worth anything. I'm willing to purchase it at market price out of respect for you. I hope you can enjoy your retirement."
"Sir Grantwood, you're over 80 years old. You should rest and enjoy your life. With a large sum of money, you can live comfortably, eat well, and have fun every day. Why not?" Dominic persuaded.
"You... You people!"
Elijah's fingers trembled, and his face turned red with anger. These people first set fire to Healwell Clinic and then came to buy it at a low price, all while claiming that they were helping him. These people were truly despicable and shameless!
Chapter 1392 Best Choice
"Elijah, selling Healwell Clinic is your best choice, and apart from us, no one will buy it," Isabela advised softly.
The entire Willowbrook District was under the control of the Stratford and Torby families. Without their approval, who would dare to take over Healwell Clinic?
"I won't sell! I'd rather die than sell! You can't take away my Healwell Clinic!" Elijah shouted in frustration.
He had dedicated most of his life and poured countless efforts into building Healwell Clinic. How could he bear to sell it at a low price, especially to such unscrupulous people? Moreover, he could already foresee that once Healwell Clinic fell into their hands, it would become a money-making machine, completely tarnishing its reputation.
"Not selling?" Dominic sneered. "Elijah, you better think carefully before answering. Refusing us is not a wise choice."
"I've lived long enough, and I'm not afraid to die!" Elijah shouted with red eyes.
"Elijah, you're upright and fearless, and I admire that. But shouldn't you consider your family and descendants?" Dominic grinned.
This remark struck Elijah like a thunderbolt, leaving him sitting there dumbfounded.
Indeed, he was fearless and unyielding, but what about his family? What if something happened to them? These people dared to do anything, even murder and arson.
"Elijah, I remember you have a beautiful granddaughter, right? She's so young and should have a bright future. What if something unfortunate were to happen to her?" Dominic's tone was sinister.
"Thud!"
Elijah's legs went weak, and he slumped to the ground, his face ashen.
He was in despair.
He knew he couldn't compete with Dominic. Even if he resisted with all his might, it would be futile in the face of these powerful and influential figures. Furthermore, resisting might even lead to his own death.
This was the cruel reality.
No matter how he struggled, it was all in vain, and he could only compromise in the end.
He couldn't protect Healwell Clinic any longer.
"Oh dear, Elijah! Why did you fall? Quickly... quickly... get up!" Dominic ran over with feigned concern, helping Elijah up and patting the dust off his clothes. He smiled and said, "I was just joking with you. Why are you so nervous? Look at you, sweating all over. Is that necessary?"
Elijah's fists tightened, and his eyes flashed with anger, but in the end, he sighed deeply, his resignation evident in his loosening grip.
"Sir Grantwood, how have you considered our proposal? Will you sell or not?" Isabela showed a sincere expression. "You need to understand that I'm trying to help you."
"You don't understand how the world works. Selling Healwell Clinic is your best choice," Dominic added.
"I... I'll sell!" Elijah said humiliatedly.
"Hehe, that's more like it," Dominic smiled, looking like he was magnanimously giving Elijah a way out.
"Very well, this is the transfer contract. Sign your name and put your thumbprint on it, and you'll receive a sum of twenty million dollars. It will be enough for you and your family to live without worries," Isabela said.
Seeming to have expected this, Isabela took out a contract from her bag and handed it to Elijah.
Elijah accepted the contract with trembling hands. His hand shook slightly as he reached for the pen, and two tears slid down his face.
In the end, he couldn't resist the power of the elite.
He thought, "Enough... enough..."
Elijah heaved a long sigh and was about to sign the contract when a hand suddenly blocked the pen.
A calm voice sounded beside him, "Elijah, I'll take Healwell Clinic. I'll offer ten million more, making it thirty million!"
Chapter 1393 Challenge to the Aristocratic Families
"Thirty million?" As these words were spoken, everyone present was stunned. When they looked up, they realized that the person who had spoken was none other than Dustin.
"Kid, what did you just say?" Dominic tilted his head and began to doubt whether he had misheard.
Isabela frowned slightly, her expression clearly displeased.
"Elijah, I'm willing to offer thirty million to purchase Healwell Clinic," Dustin said seriously. "Furthermore, I can guarantee that Healwell Clinic will be rebuilt exactly as it was, and you will continue to be the chief resident physician in charge of all matters in the clinic."
Hearing this, Elijah was immediately struck dumb. He understood the implications of Dustin's words.
Rebuilding the clinic on the same site, maintaining his position, and continuing to do good deeds—all of this meant that whatever profits Healwell Clinic made in the future would no longer be associated with him. Compared to preserving the reputation of Healwell Clinic and safeguarding his own moral support, the money was insignificant.
"Young man, are you... serious?" Elijah asked with uncertainty.
"Of course," Dustin nodded. "Healwell Clinic has a long history of helping the needy and benefiting the common people. As a physician, I cannot stand by and watch this clinic become a tool for capitalists to make money. That's why I intend to preserve it. The question is, are you willing to sell?"
"I'm willing to sell, but..." Elijah hesitated, his gaze shifting towards Dominic and the others.
He didn't care about the money and could even give it to Dustin for free because he regarded Dustin as his successor. However, the problem was that Healwell Clinic had already attracted the attention of the Stratford and Torby families. If Elijah sold it to Dustin, it would be like betraying him and antagonizing both families.
"Young man! Are you two just putting on an act here?" Dominic sneered. "Look at your shabby clothes. What's the difference between you and a beggar? With your appearance, even if you sold everything you had, you couldn't come up with Thirty million. Who do you think you are to try to purchase Healwell Clinic?"
In Dominic's eyes, it was clear that Elijah and Dustin were deliberately acting to create a conflict. They were either trying to keep Healwell Clinic for themselves or manipulate prices.
"Never mind whether I'm worthy or not. What if I can produce thirty million? How about that?" Dustin provocatively asked.
"Hehe... if you can come up with the money, I'll willingly hand over Healwell Clinic to you, no strings attached. But the problem is, do you really have that much money?" Dominic chuckled disdainfully. "You're just a penniless nobody. Even if you sold both of your kidneys, would that be enough? I'll give you a million for each kidney. How about it?"
With that statement, Dominic and his companions burst into laughter, all directed at Dustin.
"Dustin, don't try to gain attention. Healwell Clinic is already destroyed. Handing it over to us for the aftermath is the wisest choice. You have no money, no capabilities—don't make a fool of yourself by opposing us," Isabela said coldly, her eyes filled with disdain.
In her eyes, Dustin was just a doctor. Where could he possibly get thirty million dollars? What right did he have to challenge the aristocratic families?
"Gaining attention?"
Chapter 1394 Fake Card?
Dustin shook his head and sneered without explaining further. Instead, he pulled out a red bank card from his pocket.
The front of the red card bore a golden dragon, exuding an imposing aura. The back of the card had two golden characters: Imperial Platinum Card.
"This is the Imperial Platinum Card from Dragoncrest Royal Bank. Only those with assets of over ten billion are eligible to possess it," Dustin explained.
"Furthermore, with just this card, you can withdraw fifty million cash from any bank in Dragonmarsh."
"Do you still think I can't afford to buy Healwell Clinic? Can I not produce Thirty million?" Dustin displayed the red card in his hand clearly, a hint of mockery on his face.
"What? Dragoncrest Royal Bank's Imperial Platinum Card?!" Upon seeing this, everyone present couldn't help but widen their eyes, appearing incredulous.
Dragoncrest Royal Bank was the largest bank in Dragonmarsh, backed by the national treasury. It had various levels of membership clients, ranging from regular customers, gold cardholders, platinum cardholders, black gold cardholders, diamond cardholders, to the highest level, Imperial Platinum Cardholders.
To become an Imperial Platinum Cardholder, one had to meet two minimum criteria: personal assets starting from ten billion and being an influential figure with significant social impact. This could include family heads of major aristocratic families, renowned philanthropists, or prominent national figures.
In other words, anyone who became a Dragoncrest Royal Bank Imperial Platinum Cardholder stood at the top of the wealth pyramid, making money as easy as drinking water. However, the number of people in the entire country who could possess this Imperial Platinum Card was less than fifty, and they were all in the hands of major tycoons. They wouldn't be used unless absolutely necessary.
"How... how do you have a Dragoncrest Royal Bank Imperial Platinum Card?" Dominic, even as a young master of a wealthy family, had only been able to obtain a black gold card. Compared to Dustin's Imperial Platinum Card, his card was several tiers lower.
He didn't understand why someone as seemingly penniless as Dustin would have such a prestigious item.
"Don't worry about how I got it. I just want you to know if I can produce Thirty million," Dustin said calmly without addressing the question of how he obtained the card.
Dominic's mouth twitched, and he was momentarily speechless. For a Dragoncrest Royal Bank Imperial Platinum Cardholder, obtaining Thirty million was a trivial matter.
"No... that's impossible!" Suddenly, Isabela exclaimed, "With your status, how could you possibly have a Dragoncrest Royal Bank Imperial Platinum Card? I believe this card must be fake!"
Upon hearing this, everyone else realized the possibility. How could an unknown person like Dustin possess such a prestigious card?
"Good grief! You nearly fooled me with your act!" Dominic scoffed. "I knew it, you're just a penniless guy. How could you possibly have an Imperial Platinum Card? It turns out you forged a fake card just to show off! You're shameless!"
"Please, open your eyes and take a closer look at the card's patterns, the embossment, and the anti-counterfeiting features. Everything is clearly authentic. How could it be fake?" Dustin retorted.
"Humph! With today's technology, forging a card is nothing. Your Imperial Platinum Card might look real, but I can easily spot the flaws. It's definitely a fake card!" Isabela stated with conviction. "Dustin, I can't believe you're like this. You have no abilities, and now you're resorting to deceitful methods to trick people. Do you know that forging a Dragoncrest Royal Bank Imperial Platinum Card is a grave crime? Deceiving people like this is even worse. Once the relevant authorities find out, you'll spend a lifetime in prison!"
Chapter 1395 Healwell Clinic Sold
"What? A lifetime in prison?!" Hearing this, Elijah's expression changed drastically, and cold sweat broke out. He also had doubts about the authenticity of Dustin's Imperial Platinum Card, so after hearing Isabela's threat, he immediately panicked. He didn't want to jeopardize Dustin because of himself.
"Dustin, quickly put the card away, or it will be troublesome!" Elijah tugged at Dustin's sleeve and whispered.
As long as the fake Imperial Platinum Card was destroyed in time, they should be able to avoid trouble.
"Enough, Dustin!" Dominic said sternly. "You're daring enough! You dare to forge an Imperial Platinum Card. I think you're tired of living!"
"Dustin, I'm giving you a chance to change your ways. Just admit your mistake, burn this card, and leave here. I'll pretend that nothing happened," Isabela said with a hint of arrogance.
"Why should I admit my mistake? It's your own fault for not believing. If you don't believe me, you're welcome to go with me to Dragoncrest Royal Bank," Dustin replied calmly.
Dragoncrest Royal Bank Imperial Platinum Card was given to him by Thorian before he left, so it was definitely not fake.
"Dustin! You've gone too far!" Isabela's face darkened, and she exclaimed, "I've given you a chance to turn back. If you insist on being stubborn, don't blame me for turning hostile!"
"For my own good? Haha... that sounds really grating," Dustin sneered. "Isabela, don't you find yourself hypocritical? You're clearly causing harm, yet you act so self-righteous and put on the facade of a righteous crusader. It's nauseating."
"How dare you!" Isabela's face turned furious when she heard this. "Dustin, I've been patient and given you face, but you'd better not take advantage of it!"
"Young man! I order you to apologize to Miss Isabela right now, or don't blame me for being impolite!" Dominic shouted harshly.
"What? Are you going to use force? You're welcome to try." Dustin showed no fear.
"You little punk! You're asking for it!" Dominic was furious. Just as he was about to act, Isabela raised her hand to stop him and said in a low voice, "Wait a minute. There are too many people here, and openly using force would tarnish the reputation of our families."
"Do you mean to let him off the hook like this?" Dominic frowned, feeling unwilling.
"Stay calm; we must exercise patience to achieve great things," Isabela said calmly. "This is our territory in the Willowbrook District, and we have the final say here. Dealing with an unknown person should be easy. Alright, for your sake, I'll let this kid continue to act arrogant for now."
"If there's a need, we'll deal with him later."
"If both of you don't dare to act, then please leave," Dustin said indifferently. "By the way, I've already purchased Healwell Clinic. If you have any business in the future, feel free to come to me."
"Young man! You are really looking for trouble, I will give it to you?" Dominic retorted.
"Then be it!" Dustin raised an eyebrow. "That's quite exciting to hear." Dustin sneered.
"You've gone too far, Dustin!" Isabela's face darkened as she said angrily, "I've been patient and given you face, but you'd better not take advantage of it!"
"Young man! I order you to apologize to Miss Isabela right now, or don't blame me for all the troubles coming your way!" Dominic shouted harshly.
Chapter 1396 Celebrate Too Soon
"Isabela, don't think too highly of yourself. I don't care about your chances," responded Dustin, his tone icy.
Ever since the moment Isabela started using him and when Winston and Sophia sought revenge, the two sides had been at odds.
"Fine! Since you're so stubborn, don't blame me for not holding back!" Isabela's expression darkened.
"I'll give you the same advice. If your Stratford and Torby families harbor ill intentions, you'll face the consequences," Dustin retorted.
"Don't overestimate yourself!"
Isabela coldly huffed and turned to leave.
Just as she was about to get into the car, she seemed to remember something. She stopped abruptly, turned around, and sneered, "Oh, by the way, I forgot to tell you something.
Starting today, our Torby family and the Stratford family will be collaborating to research and produce Jade Dew Ointment.
I believe it won't be long before Jade Dew Ointment becomes famous in Stonia and throughout the world, bringing us a continuous stream of wealth.
Of course, all of this is thanks to you. If you hadn't provided us with the formula for Jade Dew Ointment, we wouldn't have had this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
How about that? Surprised? Impressed?
Both our Torby and Stratford families will promote Jade Dew Ointment for you. Shouldn't you be grateful to us?"
By the end of her speech, Isabela's face was filled with triumph and a big smile.
Compared to the value of Jade Dew Ointment, Healwell Clinic was hardly worth mentioning.
Being able to deceive Dustin and obtain the formula was undoubtedly the wisest decision for the Torby family.
"Despicable!"
Elijah gritted his teeth, seething with anger.
He had witnessed the miraculous effects of Jade Dew Ointment with his own eyes and knew its immense value.
Originally, Dustin could have become immensely wealthy thanks to Jade Dew Ointment, but the Torby family had crossed the line and seized the formula.
Such behavior was truly shameless.
"Isabela, do you really think you've won?" Dustin suddenly interjected.
"Isn't that the case?" Isabela asked with a smile.
"Don't celebrate too soon. Even though you have the formula for Jade Dew Ointment, mine is the authentic one," Dustin said casually.
"So what? Even if you have the formula, what can you do? Do you think your medicine can sell? Don't be naive!" Isabela replied with a hint of disdain. "Willowbrook is our territory, and challenging us is the most foolish decision. If you know what's good for you, you'd better apologize and bow down while there's still a chance."
In this world, the act of plagiarizing and killing original creations was all too common.
What could a mere doctor do against two powerful families?
"Well, if you're so confident, let's wait and see," Dustin said, unperturbed.
"Hmph! I'll make sure you regret this!" Isabela glared menacingly and then got into her car and drove away.
How dare a penniless nobody defy her? He really didn't know his place!
"If you're unscrupulous, don't blame me for being unjust."
Dustin narrowed his eyes, his expression gradually turning cold.
In fact, when he was negotiating the formula with the Torby family, he had kept a trick up his sleeve, just in case.
Originally, he had planned to wait for the Torby family to acquire the other two medicinal herbs and then provide the complete formula.
However, he hadn't expected the Torby family to go back on their word and repay kindness with enmity.
Such treacherous behavior would surely come with a heavy price!
Chapter 1397 The Admirable Integrity
"Dustin, you shouldn't have been so impulsive just now. Offending the Stratford and Torby families in Willowbrook might make it difficult for you to establish yourself," sighed Elijah, looking somewhat worried.
"Dr Elijah, don't worry. I have someone backing me up. It won't be so easy for the Stratford and Torby families to touch me," Dustin replied with a faint smile.
"Backing? What kind of backing?" Elijah instantly perked up.
No wonder Dustin dared to be so bold, directly challenging these powerful families. It turned out he had support behind him.
But thinking about it, if he didn't have some background, how could he be so audacious?
"Some things are better kept secret. You'll know when the time comes," Dustin teased, keeping the mystery alive.
He didn't want to stir up too much trouble or reveal his identity to certain forces right now, whether it was the Stratford or Torby family.
So, staying low-profile was the best approach for now.
After some effort, the fire at Healwell Clinic was finally extinguished. However, the once majestic and solemn building had now turned into ruins.
Looking around, there were broken walls and debris everywhere, remnants of the devastating fire.
The damage was severe, and the place needed to be demolished and rebuilt. It would require a considerable amount of money, time, and effort.
"Dominic... What a beast!" Elijah couldn't help but shed tears as he gazed at the ruins of Healwell Clinic.
"Given the circumstances, please try to be understanding, Dr Elijah. I will do my best to help you rebuild Healwell Clinic as soon as possible," Dustin comforted him.
"Rebuild?" Elijah shook his head, looking as if he had aged several years. "Healwell Clinic has already caught the attention of the Stratford and Torby families. Even if I rebuild it, they can simply set it on fire again. I am powerless to resist."
"If Dr Elijah trusts me, then please sell Healwell Clinic to me. I promise to restore Healwell Clinic to its former glory," Dustin said with a serious expression.
A medical clinic like Healwell Clinic, which aimed to help the masses, was a national treasure and couldn't be allowed to fade away.
Traditional medicine was already on the decline, with fewer and fewer practitioners. Every medical clinic needed to be preserved.
"Dustin, I don't need money. What I want is to see Healwell Clinic thrive. I am getting old, and my time is limited. If you can carry on my legacy, it will fulfill one of my wishes. Compared to the legacy of our ancestors, money is as worthless as dirt," Elijah said earnestly.
To outsiders, it was priceless; to Dustin, it was not worth a cent.
Only by following this principle could traditional Chinese medicine continue to be passed down.
"Dr Elijah, your integrity is admirable!" Dustin respectfully bowed and said, "Since Dr Elijah holds me in such high regard, I will do my best to bring Healwell Clinic back to its former glory."
"Good... good!" Elijah smiled with relief, tears streaming down his face once again.
But this time, they were tears of joy.
Finally, there was someone to carry on Healwell Clinic!
Dustin didn't stay at the scene for long. After escorting Elijah to a car, he returned to his own villa.
Healwell Clinic was destroyed, and both Lorenzo and Elijah were left without a place to stay.
Fortunately, Dustin had arranged for them to stay in a newly acquired villa, which made it easier to take care of them and ensured their safety.
After settling everything, Dustin took out his phone and dialed a number.
As soon as the call connected, a sweet and flirtatious voice came from the other end, "Hey, handsome, are you missing me already? Are you trying to ask me out? Let me tell you, my alcohol tolerance isn't great, I get drunk after just one drink."
Chapter 1398 A Business Proposal
"Miss Remington, I have a business proposition to discuss with you, one that guarantees you'll make a significant profit," Dustin got straight to the point.
"Oh? What kind of business?" Belinda showed some interest.
"It's not something I can explain over the phone. Let's meet at Imperial Palace Cuisine in an hour for a face-to-face discussion," Dustin replied.
"Sure, I'll be there."
After hanging up the phone, Dustin left his home again.
With Maximus looking after things at home, he didn't need to worry about any tricks from the Stratford and Torby families.
At noon, at Imperial Palace Cuisine.
Dustin entered the establishment and, guided by a waiter, ascended to the second floor and finally entered a private room.
Inside the room, Belinda, dressed in a red cheongsam (a straight, close-fitting silk dress with a high neck and slit skirt), was leisurely sipping tea.
Today, she had light makeup on, held a fragrant fan, and her jet-black hair was elegantly coiled at the back of her head. Her voluptuous figure, accentuated by the tight-fitting cheongsam, was extremely alluring. Especially her two fair and shapely long legs, overlapping each other, were enough to make anyone's imagination run wild.
Her attire followed a retro and elegant style, but her temperament was enchanting and captivating, bright and alluring.
The fusion of these two different styles created a unique form of allure.
"Oh, young man, you're here? Please, take a seat," Belinda stood up to greet Dustin, her every expression and smile oozing charm.
"Miss Remington, I apologize for keeping you waiting," Dustin calmly took his seat.
"It's no problem; I've only just arrived myself," Belinda smiled and poured a cup of tea for Dustin. "Here, I brewed this myself. Give it a taste."
Dustin lifted the teacup and took a sip, nodding. "It's good tea, though the taste is a bit unique."
"Of course, I like things that are unique," Belinda said with a meaningful smile.
At some point, she had already taken off her high heels, and her jade-like feet under the table started to crawl up Dustin's legs, slowly and intentionally.
"Miss Remington, let's get down to business," Dustin subtly retracted his leg, maintaining a calm expression. "I invited you here to discuss a business opportunity, a way for us to make money together."
"Make money?" Belinda raised an eyebrow. "Well, I'm not tired of hearing about that. What's the money-making scheme?"
"Do you know about Jade Dew Ointment?" Dustin asked in return.
"Never heard of it," Belinda shook her head.
"Jade Dew Ointment is a type of external wound medicine, similar to Healwell Clinic's Golden Wound Medicine, but its effectiveness is significantly stronger," Dustin explained.
"Stronger? How much stronger?" Belinda seemed somewhat skeptical.
"At least ten times stronger!" Dustin's statement was quite startling.
"Ten times?"
At these words, Belinda's eyelids twitched, and her expression turned more serious. "You... aren't joking, are you?"
"If Miss Remington doesn't believe me, I can prove it to you," Dustin said, then suddenly pulled out a knife and made a deep cut on his arm.
Instantly, his flesh was cut open, and blood flowed.
Even a Grandmaster couldn't withstand a blade with no protective energy.
"Yikes! Are you insane? Why would you cut yourself for no reason?!" Belinda was shocked and quickly took out her handkerchief to help bandage Dustin's wound.
Her face was filled with concern.
"Miss Remington, let's stick to business," Dustin said calmly. "I invited you out to discuss a partnership in which we can both profit."
"Profit?" Belinda's demeanor shifted as she inquired, "Tell me more."
Chapter 1399 Offending The Major Powers
Watching Belinda's concerned and slightly reproachful expression, Dustin felt a sudden sense of trance. From her, he seemed to catch a glimpse of Natasha's shadow.
Is she doing well?
We haven't been in touch for so long; I hope she doesn't blame me.
When he snapped back to reality, Dustin immediately withdrew his hand and declined Belinda's offer to bandage the wound. He explained, "Miss Remington, it's nothing serious, just a minor injury. As long as I apply Jade Dew Ointment, it will heal quickly."
Saying that, he took out a jar of Jade Dew Ointment that he had prepared in advance and applied it to the wound.
Unlike the previous black ointment, the Jade Dew Ointment he used this time was a dark green color, as translucent as jade.
This was the improved genuine product, not only free of side effects but also exceptionally effective.
"Little handsome, even if you wanted to test the medicine, you didn't have to harm yourself like that. It looks so painful," Belinda exclaimed with a hint of resentment.
"This is the most direct and convincing way," Dustin replied with a faint smile.
"You could have just told me, I would have believed you. Why subject yourself to such pain? If it leaves a scar, your arm won't look good," Belinda shook her head, clearly not understanding.
"This is also one of the points I want to prove. Jade Dew Ointment not only treats external wounds but also removes scars," Dustin said as he picked up the teapot and poured two cups of tea. He smiled and continued, "If everything goes as expected, my wound will completely heal by the time we finish this pot of tea."
"Oh?" Belinda raised an eyebrow.
With the other party's confidence, she became even more interested.
As they sipped tea and conversed, after a while, Dustin smiled slightly. "Miss Remington, it's about time. Please take a look."
With that, he picked up a tissue from the table and gently wiped away the green ointment on his arm.
The green ointment vanished, and along with it, the wound that had been slashed open earlier also mysteriously disappeared.
Not a trace of a scar was left, only a faint red mark remained, which was new flesh.
"Hmm?"
Belinda was slightly stunned and asked subconsciously, "What happened to the injury you had just now? How did it disappear?"
"It didn't disappear; it has completely healed," Dustin corrected her.
"Are you serious?" Belinda looked surprised. "It hasn't even been the time it takes to finish a pot of tea, and such a long wound has completely healed?"
"How about it? Are you satisfied with the effectiveness of Jade Dew Ointment, Miss Remington?" Dustin asked with a smile.
"It's incredible! Truly incredible!" Belinda grabbed Dustin's hand, examining it left and right, her eyes sparkling. "Young man, is the business opportunity you mentioned related to this Jade Dew Ointment?"
"That's correct," Dustin nodded. "Miss Remington, are you interested?"
"Of course, I'm interested! I've never seen such a miraculous external wound medicine. If we can mass-produce it, it's bound to become a bestseller!" Belinda's eyes shone brightly.
Coming from a prestigious family, she had been exposed to business from a young age. Naturally, she understood the immense value of this medicine. With just a bit of promotion, it could easily outperform all the other external wound treatments on the market.
This was a real treasure she had stumbled upon!
"Miss Remington, don't get too excited just yet. While Jade Dew Ointment is excellent, it also comes with significant risks," Dustin cautioned.
"Oh? What risks?" Belinda asked with a smile.
"To be honest, before meeting you, I had already sold the formula of Jade Dew Ointment to the Torby family. However, they reneged on our agreement, so I intend to reclaim what is rightfully mine and teach the Torby family a lesson."
Dustin didn't hide anything and briefly explained the situation.
In a partnership, honesty was crucial, and the choice was ultimately up to Belinda.
"So, you mean we would be competing with the Torby family?" Belinda asked after hearing the story.
"Not just the Torby family, but also the Stratford family; they are collaborating. I wanted to be straightforward with you, Miss Remington, so you can make an informed decision," Dustin replied.
"Ah?"
Belinda was momentarily taken aback and then smiled wryly. "Young man, you sure know how to present me with a challenge. You've already offended both of the major powers in Willowbrook. If I agree to collaborate, won't I be going into the lion's den?"
With the resources of the Remington family, dealing with just the Torby family was already quite challenging, not to mention adding the Stratford family into the mix. It would be like a lone wolf trying to take on two fierce tigers.
Chapter 1400 A Suppressed Family
"Miss Remington, since we're going to cooperate, I won't let you fight this battle alone. I can shoulder most of the pressure. Your role will be in manufacturing and promotion, utilizing the Remington family's connections to establish the reputation of Jade Dew Ointment," earnestly stated Dustin.
Upon hearing this, Belinda fell into silence.
Jade Dew Ointment was undoubtedly excellent, but was it worth offending the two major giants, the Torbys and the Stratfords, for this medicine?
"Of course, if Miss Remington has any reservations, I won't force you. Consider this bottle of Jade Dew Ointment as a gift from me," Dustin said with a faint smile, placing the medicine bottle on the table and pushing it toward her.
The Remington family was influential, but in the Willowbrook, they ranked third.
The first and second were the Torbys and the Stratfords.
To challenge both of these powerful families simultaneously placed immense pressure on the Remington family. It now depended on whether Belinda was willing to take the gamble.
"Young man, why did you choose to cooperate with me?" Belinda didn't directly answer but asked in return.
"First, you're a good person; second, we share a connection; and third, the Remington family is the most suitable," Dustin responded.
Although they had only met recently, Belinda had helped him out of several predicaments.
In terms of character, there was no doubt about her.
He was also willing to help the Remington family rise to prominence, replacing the positions held by the Torbys and the Stratfords.
Jade Dew Ointment was the key to their ascent.
"Great! Since you have such faith in me, I'll take the gamble with you!" Belinda finally nodded after a few moments of contemplation.
Seeking fortune amidst danger, the Remington family had been suppressed for too long; it was time to make a move.
"Thank you for your cooperation, Miss Remington." Dustin nodded with a smile.
It was evident that Belinda had ambition and the courage to take risks, something not commonly found in ordinary heiresses.
"Come, here's to a successful partnership!" Belinda raised her tea cup, offering a charming smile.
"A successful partnership," Dustin replied, clinking his cup against hers and taking a sip.
"Now, let's discuss the details of Jade Dew Ointment..."
After a detailed conversation, they parted ways.
Belinda returned home with Jade Dew Ointment and found her father.
Using the same self-inflicted method as Dustin, she demonstrated the miraculous effects of Jade Dew Ointment.
Her father, Prudence Remington, was initially shocked, then pleasantly surprised. However, upon hearing about the competition with the Torbys and the Stratfords, his brow furrowed in deep concern.
In just a few minutes, Prudence's emotions roller-coastered, making it difficult for him to calm down.
"Dad, this is the best opportunity for our Remington family. We mustn't miss it. We've been suppressed for so many years; it's time for us to rise!" Belinda earnestly persuaded.
"It's not that simple. The Torbys and the Stratfords have dominated for many years, and their position is unshakable. Moreover, they already possess the formula for Jade Dew Ointment. What right do we have to compete with them?" Prudence, an experienced strategist, saw through the situation clearly.
If there were enormous profits to be had, he might consider taking the risk. However, they had no advantage at the moment. They didn't even have an exclusive formula. How could they possibly compete?
"Dad, Dustin told me that the formula held by Torbys are inferior. The ingredients are expensive, the efficacy is low, and there are even some side effects."
"Our Jade Dew Ointment, on the other hand, is the complete opposite: low cost, high efficacy, a quality product at an affordable price. With our full-scale promotion, we will undoubtedly crush the Torbys and the Stratfords, leaving them with nothing!" Belinda exuded confidence.
"Is that the truth?" Prudence's eyes lit up.
"Absolutely, I can swear to it!" Belinda extended three fingers.
"No need, I trust your judgment."
Taking a deep breath, Prudence finally made a decision. "They say fortune favors the bold. This time, I'll join you in taking this gamble!"
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