Ian answered shyly, his voice low. “I… apart from my face, I don’t have much to offer. I’m strong, I guess. I just turned eighteen, so I don’t have a good job yet.”
Natalie couldn’t help but let out a soft laugh. When she smiled, she was breathtaking, and Ian found himself staring, momentarily stunned. He had seen many beautiful women, but none whose laughter was as pure and lovely as hers. There was no artifice in her, just bright, clear eyes that radiated kindness.
“You’re quite charming, kiddo,” she said warmly. “But I’m not looking for a toy boy, nor do I need someone for their strength. I’m helping not because of you, but because of your grandmother. For me, it’s a small effort. But if you truly want to repay me, I have a proposition. I’ll send you abroad to study. When you complete your education, you can come work for my company. That would be a great way to help me.”
Ian was astonished. Could something this good really be happening to him?
“For now, take me to see your grandmother,” Natalie said. “My friend is getting a check-up, and I need to go see her soon.”
Seeing the genuine goodwill in her smile, Ian finally let his guard down and led her to his grandmother’s room. It was a small room, shared by two patients.
As they entered, Ian went to his grandmother’s bedside. “Grandma.”
“Ian, you’re back,” the woman said. She was in her seventies, with a full head of silver hair. Illness had drained all the color from her face. “I feel fine. Let’s go home.”
“Grandma, I brought a doctor to see you,” Ian explained. “Let her take a look, okay?”

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