Chapter 108:

After Qin Chaoyu had dealt with the man’s issue, the others soon finished diagnosing their own patients and gathered together. They reviewed each other’s diagnosis sheets to ensure they were flawless.

After examining the others’ diagnosis sheets, Qin Chaoyu couldn’t help but marvel—these were indeed top-tier talents selected for the competition. Their sheets were on par with those of doctors who had practiced for years.

While Qin Chaoyu’s group progressed smoothly, the other groups were no less impressive. Every action of all the participants was observed by the experts monitoring through the cameras.

As a heavyweight in the medical field, Grover Lawrence could easily assess the skill level of each contestant. After the first round, he noticed that this year’s participants were exceptionally talented, with a few standing out significantly above the rest. This had heightened his expectations for the competition, which was a major reason he had accepted the invitation to serve as a judge.

Witnessing everything firsthand, he was pleased to see that even the promising candidates he had his eye on did not disappoint. In high spirits, he turned to his stern-faced friend and remarked, “Why so serious, my friend? I think it’s that expression of yours that makes so many people reluctant to interact with you.”

Rez Massey remained unfazed and suddenly pointed at the screen in front of him. “This girl is remarkable.” The screen displayed footage from China, and the person he was referring to was none other than Qin Chaoyu.

“Oh, really?” Grover Lawrence leaned in curiously. After watching, his face lit up with astonishment. “Is this the ancient medical art of China?”

Rez Massey nodded. “I believe so. She merely asked a few questions and felt the pulse, yet arrived at a conclusion similar to mine.” He was referring to Qin Chaoyu’s diagnosis of the Caucasian woman.

Knowing his friend’s character, Grover Lawrence understood that if Rez said so, it must be true. He couldn’t help but exclaim, “Well, my friend, I must say, I’m even more intrigued by this competition now. I’m looking forward to seeing more from this girl.”

Once the competition time was up, staff collected the diagnosis sheets written by the participants, which would serve as the primary basis for scoring.

Following Qin Chaoyu’s instructions, the two patients accompanied her back to the hotel. After receiving the medicinal ointment she provided, they left.

Rong Zhen’er sat on the bed, watching Qin Chaoyu read a book. “That Caucasian woman clearly didn’t take you seriously and even seemed a bit disdainful of the ointment you gave her. Why bother giving it to her? She probably won’t use it—what a waste.”

Without looking up, Qin Chaoyu replied calmly, “Whether she uses it or not is her choice. But whether I give it is my responsibility. I’ve done my part, fulfilled my promise, and my conscience is at ease.”

Well, it seemed she didn’t need to worry—this big shot had a broad mind. Rong Zhen’er thought to herself, about to ask more about the scar ointment, when Qin Chaoyu’s phone rang.

With a sigh, Rong Zhen’er realized she’d have to ask tomorrow. It was undoubtedly that unforgettable man calling again.

Sure enough, after hanging up, Qin Chaoyu began preparing to leave.

This meeting with Bai Jixi had been prearranged. He informed her that there was a banquet that evening and, as he lacked a companion, invited her to accompany him.

Though he phrased it that way, Qin Chaoyu knew Bai Jixi intended to introduce her to influential figures to boost her reputation. If she wanted to develop her medical school, visibility was essential. While she didn’t strictly need this kind of assistance—her skills alone could achieve her goals—she appreciated his goodwill.

The banquet was held at an opulent estate in Beverly Hills, attended by the wealthy and elite. Even global superstars seemed ordinary in such company.

As the head of the Bai family, Bai Jixi was undoubtedly one of the most distinguished guests. The moment he arrived, a crowd gathered around him. Qin Chaoyu, holding his arm, stood quietly by his side with a composed smile.

Business inevitably involved socializing, and though Bai Jixi disliked idle chatter, he patiently exchanged a few words with the group before finally excusing himself. Remembering that Qin Chaoyu hadn’t eaten yet, he guided her toward the food.

Qin Chaoyu wore a fitted black evening gown that accentuated her fair complexion, making her appearance nothing short of breathtaking. Since her entrance, she had drawn numerous admiring glances.

The moment Bai Jixi stepped away, a man approached her. “Miss, may I have the pleasure of your acquaintance?” He was a Caucasian man in his twenties, somewhat handsome but with an oily gaze that made him seem vaguely sleazy.

Before Qin Chaoyu could respond, a male voice interrupted, “I doubt this lady wishes to speak with you. Interrupting someone’s meal is rather impolite.”

Annoyed, the man turned to see who had interfered, but upon recognizing the newcomer, he wisely retreated.

Satisfied, the newcomer didn’t attempt to engage Qin Chaoyu in conversation either. Instead, he headed toward the buffet.

However, as he walked past, Qin Chaoyu’s eyes lingered on his leg. Suddenly, she spoke, “Have you suffered a leg injury?”

The man swallowed his food and nodded indifferently. His leg fracture from earlier in the year was hardly a secret.

“Ah, I see. There’s also an old injury. Full recovery will require further treatment.” Initially, Qin Chaoyu hadn’t planned to say more, but since this man had helped her avoid a nuisance, she added, “I don’t know if you believe in traditional Chinese medicine, but if you’re interested, you might consider consulting a TCM practitioner about your leg.”

“Oh?” The man raised an eyebrow with interest. “Chinese medicine? What’s that?”

“An ancient healing practice. You could look into it if you’d like.”

Just then, Bai Jixi returned. Spotting the man, he frowned slightly but feigned indifference. “Who’s this?”

Qin Chaoyu shook her head. “No one I know.”

The man was visibly taken aback. After their brief exchange, he hadn’t expected her to claim she didn’t recognize him. He had assumed she was trying to strike up a conversation. Had his fame really declined so much in just half a year?

With a sigh, he introduced himself, “Though it’s a bit disheartening you don’t know me, I’ll introduce myself anyway. I’m Curtis Glinton, a professional footballer. And you are?”

Bai Jixi shot him a disdainful glance, clearly unimpressed by his lack of awareness, and remained silent.

Qin Chaoyu, however, replied, “I’m Qin Chaoyu.”

Undeterred by Bai Jixi’s silence, Curtis Glinton didn’t press further.

“Ah, Mr. Bai! I’ve been looking everywhere for you!” The trio turned to see Adonis Bruce approaching. Curtis seemed surprised—this was the first time he’d seen Adonis Bruce so amiable. Given the man’s notoriously foul temper, it was clear Bai Jixi held considerable influence.

As Adonis stepped closer, he noticed Qin Chaoyu standing behind Bai Jixi. His face brightened with enthusiasm. “Dr. Qin! What a delightful surprise to see you here!”

Qin Chaoyu remembered her first foreign patient and nodded in greeting. “Hello, Mr. Bruce. It’s been a while.”

“Indeed, it has. I must thank you again for your treatment back then. Would you honor me by joining me for a meal sometime as a token of my gratitude?”

“Of course. I’d be happy to,” Qin Chaoyu replied.

Pleased with her answer, Adonis excused himself. As the head of a major corporation, his schedule was packed, and even this brief exchange was a rare indulgence.

After Adonis left, Curtis turned to Qin Chaoyu curiously. “You’re a doctor? And one praised by Mr. Bruce himself—are you the one who cured his chronic headaches?” Adonis Bruce’s migraines were as infamous as his temper, so Curtis was familiar with the issue.

Qin Chaoyu nodded casually. “If there are no other candidates, then yes, it was probably me.”

“Wow, your skills must be incredible.” After a moment of thought, Curtis seemed to reach a decision. “In that case, would you consider becoming my physician?”

Bai Jixi had been about to lead Qin Chaoyu away—after all, they were here to network, not linger in a corner—but he hadn’t expected the footballer to place such trust in her so quickly.

Then again, considering Curtis’s predicament over the past six months, Bai Jixi understood. He recognized Curtis—or at least knew of him. Many of his business associates were football enthusiasts, and Curtis’s name often came up in conversations. As a rising star, Curtis had dazzled from his debut, but his peak was abruptly halted by a leg injury six months ago. Since then, his performance had declined, and many now spoke of him with pity. If he didn’t recover soon, not only would he lose his current standing, but his career might end prematurely.

Qin Chaoyu studied Curtis with mild skepticism. “Do you trust me?”

Curtis grinned wryly. “To be precise, I trust Adonis Bruce. If someone like him vouches for you, that’s reason enough for me. Besides, I’m out of options. Might as well take a gamble—it’s my only shot at a comeback.”

Unfazed by his bluntness, Qin Chaoyu nodded. “If you choose me as your physician, from the moment treatment begins, you follow my instructions without question. That’s my rule. Can you accept that?”

Curtis didn’t hesitate. “Absolutely. I’ll be the most obedient patient.”