Thinking back to Mr. Chilton’s smooth recovery, Floyd knew Leilani had done the heavy lifting. During that research process, she had helped him immensely. Now that she was facing a problem, simply sending a detox report felt like doing the bare minimum—especially since the report was largely the fruit of her own labor to begin with.
Floyd stood before the windows of his hotel suite, phone in hand, frowning deeply. If Leilani’s new patient was in the same boat as Mr. Chilton, the person’s identity was undoubtedly significant. Although Leilani sounded calm, Floyd knew from their month working together that she wouldn't call him unless she had truly hit a wall.
When he had needed help most, she had extended a hand without hesitation. Now that she was in a bind, he couldn’t just stand by. The problem was his location; his current project was at a critical stage, and he couldn't leave Haronia Country.
The silence on the line stretched out. Leilani seemed to sense his hesitation and quickly reassured him. “Mr. Dillon, it’s fine. Sending the report is already a huge help. Please don’t feel burdened. It’s just bad timing that you’re away. I know if you were back home, you’d come help me without a second thought.”
Floyd sighed with emotion. Even now, she was comforting him, which only made him feel more guilty.
Suddenly, a thought crossed his mind. Even though he wasn't in the country, his status in the medical community meant he had extensive connections. He remembered a student of his who had recently returned from conducting experiments abroad and had just landed in Garrison City yesterday. He quickly asked, “Leilani, where are you currently located?”
“Yes, it’s quite a coincidence,” Floyd explained. “He’s been abroad focusing on a new field of research, which is why I haven’t had a chance to introduce you two before. His project ended a few days ago, and he’s back in town. His name is Malcolm Sewell. He’s a professor at the Garrison University School of Medicine, specializing in neurotoxins and antidotes. I think he could be of service.”
Leilani set down her pen, her tone brightening. “That’s wonderful. I really need an expert opinion in that area. Thank you so much, Mr. Dillon.”
She knew Floyd wouldn't recommend anyone unless their skills were beyond doubt. Rather than working in isolation, Leilani preferred exchanging ideas; a fresh perspective might help her find the antidote for Payton much sooner.

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