Genius Kids‘ Scheme: Claiming Daddy’s Billionaire Empire
Chapter 15: Soon to Be Neighbors
“For heaven’s sake, are you planning to camp out here forever?” Irene sighed, finding Thomas perched on the steps outside her new apartment yet again. After their abrupt exit from the Grand Hotel, she’d hoped for at least a few days of peace while they got settled.
No such luck.
–
“Dr. Sterling,” Thomas adjusted his tie a nervous habit he couldn’t quite shake – and met her gaze with unwavering determination. “Until you agree to treat Mr. Haven, I’m afraid you’ll have to get used to seeing me around. His condition requires your specific
expertise.”
The triplets had gathered in the doorway, watching this exchange with barely concealed interest. They’d been tracking Thomas’s persistent attempts to win their mother over like it was their favorite reality show.
“Mom,” Alex piped up, his expression unusually earnest, “maybe we should look at this from a different angle. If Mr. Haven made you angry, why not get back at him by charging a small fortune? Make him pay through the nose!”
“Yeah!” Lucas chimed in, practically bouncing on his toes. “Hit him where it hurts – right
in the wallet!”
“Mom,” Lily’s voice was softer as she slipped her small hand into Irene’s, “don’t forget about Great–grandfather. He’s going to need somewhere nice to stay when he comes to live with us, and someone to help take care of him. You can’t handle everything by yourself forever.”
Thomas observed this family dynamic with growing fascination, especially how Irene’s expression softened at the mention of her grandfather. He cleared his throat carefully.
“If you’ll pardon my curiosity, Dr. Sterling,” he ventured, “given your exceptional medical reputation, the fee from treating Mr. Haven alone would be substantial – millions, actually. I’m somewhat puzzled why you’d choose such… modest accommodations.”
Before Irene could respond, Lucas stepped forward, hands planted firmly on his hips like a miniature CEO about to give a press conference. With a world–weary sigh that seemed ridiculously out of place coming from a five–year–old, he explained, “My mom doesn’t believe in treating rich people. She mostly helps regular folks who can’t afford fancy
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Chapter 15 Soon to Be Neighbors
doctors. Half the time she barely breaks even, and sometimes she even pays for their
medicine herself.”
Irene couldn’t help but smile at her son’s passionate defense of her principles, even as she wondered when her children had become so perceptive about her practice.
Thomas recognized his opening. “What if Mr. Haven could offer something more valuable than just money?” He paused meaningfully. “He’s prepared to provide you with a fully furnished villa in Emerald Garden Estate, transferred directly into your name.”
The triplets‘ eyes lit up instantly this was exactly what they’d been hoping for! Living next to Mr. Haven would give them the perfect opportunity to get closer to him. Besides, Emerald Garden Estate was Silver City’s most exclusive neighborhood, home only to the wealthiest and most powerful residents. Even the Sterling family hadn’t managed to secure a property there.
“The villa is right next door to Mr. Haven’s residence,” Thomas continued, pressing his advantage. “It would be perfect for your family, especially with your grandfather coming to stay. The location would make treatment sessions incredibly convenient.”
Irene’s clinical mind kicked in despite her reservations. The proximity would indeed be ideal for the kind of intensive physical therapy someone with Mr. Haven’s condition would require. Still…
“There’s no such thing as a free lunch,” she said carefully. “What exactly are the terms?”
“Just one condition,” Thomas replied promptly. “Take the case and stay with it until the
end.”
Looking at her children’s hopeful faces, Irene felt her resolve weakening. They did need a larger place, especially with her grandfather’s declining health…
“Mom,” Lily tugged at her mother’s sleeve, her dark eyes wide and pleading, “please say yes? For Great–grandfather?”
“If and I mean if – I agree to this, I have conditions of my own.”
“That’s perfectly reasonable.” Thomas was practically bouncing on his toes, reminding her eerily of Lucas when he was excited about something.
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