A Matrilocal Husband's Counterattack

Chapter 34: You Again, You Fraud!

The next morning, after the Thompson family of three left for work, Ethan quickly finished his house chores and prepared to head to the job market.

Since Sophia was so insistent on him getting a job, he thought it might be useful to secure one as a shield for future arguments.

Just as he was about to leave, Ms. Scarlet called.

"My little savior, where are you?"
Her voice was as gentle as a spring breeze. "Do you have time now?"

Ethan's expression tightened. "Ms. Scarlet, what's wrong? Is Cici okay?"
Cici was the first person Ethan saved, and being so young, he didn't want anything bad to happen to her.

Ms. Scarlet sounded touched. "No, no, Cici is stable now. She's out of danger."

Ethan exhaled in relief. "As long as she's okay. What's the matter, Ms. Scarlet?"

"Ethan, don't call me Ms. Scarlet. Call me Scarlet or Sis Scarlet."
She chuckled lightly. "You're Cici's savior. Calling me Ms. Scarlet feels too distant."

"Alright, I'll call you Sis Scarlet," Ethan said, hesitating for a moment before adding, "But please don't call me 'little savior.' Just Ethan is fine."

Ms. Scarlet giggled softly. "Okay, Ethan it is, or maybe... little brother."

"Little brother?" Ethan's expression turned awkward. "What's the matter, Sis Scarlet?"

"Here's the thing: an elder in my family fell ill half a month ago. His stomach often twists in unbearable pain," she explained.
"The only relief comes from eating something cold. The moment he eats anything warm or drinks hot water, he's in excruciating pain and might even pass out."

"He's seen countless doctors at various hospitals, but nothing has worked. His condition has only deteriorated, and his nervous system is weakening.

"In less than half a month, he's lost over twenty pounds and his energy is completely drained."

"Last night, while trying to have a meal out, he collapsed in the parking lot and nearly passed away," Ms. Scarlet said in a grave tone. "You're a brilliant healer who saved Cici twice. I thought you might be able to help."

She sounded deeply trusting. "Can you spare the time to take a look at him?"

"I can come and see him," Ethan replied without hesitation. "But I can't promise I'll be able to cure him."

He understood that Ms. Scarlet wouldn't have asked him unless she was desperate, given the connection between their families.

"Thank you so much!"
Her voice brimmed with gratitude. "Ethan, send me your address. I'll come pick you up."

After hanging up, Ethan smacked his forehead. He suddenly remembered Sophia's three rules. If she found out he was off healing someone, he'd be in trouble.

"I need to make sure Sis Scarlet and I are on the same page later," he muttered.

Before long, a sleek Ferrari pulled up outside the villa. The window rolled down, revealing Ms. Scarlet's stunningly beautiful face.

She was a far cry from her haggard appearance during Cici's accident. Now, she radiated elegance and vitality, like a flower blooming anew.

Leaning casually against her seat, she waved at him. "Ethan, hop in."

Her eyes were like painted scrolls, mesmerizing and filled with allure.

Ethan hesitated momentarily, catching his breath. Previously, he hadn't paid much attention to Ms. Scarlet due to the emergencies. Now, he realized what a captivating presence she had.

He exhaled slowly, grabbed his needle kit, and climbed into the car.

Inside, the car was filled with her delicate fragrance. Her snow-white legs, exposed slightly by her posture, were dazzling to behold.

"Should we let Ms. Thompson know where you're going?" she teased, her voice honeyed and sultry.

"No need. Let's go," Ethan replied, subtly steadying his breathing before using his internal cultivation technique to calm himself.

Ms. Scarlet glanced at him curiously. She noticed his calm demeanor and clear gaze, with no hint of inappropriate desire.

Her surprise was evident. "Quite the self-controlled young man!"

Her interest in him only grew. She leaned closer with a soft "Oops!" feigning a stumble toward Ethan.

Instinctively, Ethan reached out to steady her. However, her soft hand found its way onto the space between their seats.

Ethan froze, his entire body stiff.

Ms. Scarlet leaned in, her breath warm against his ear.
"I was beginning to wonder if I'd lost my charm..."

By 10 a.m., the Ferrari arrived at a serene estate.

The sprawling property, complete with staff and security guards, exuded wealth. Its architecture reflected a "Dragon Absorbing Energy" style, indicating the family's affluence.

As Ethan followed Ms. Scarlet into the grand hall, he couldn't help but marvel at his surroundings.

Nearly 10,000 square feet of space was packed with priceless antiques—paintings, porcelain, jade, ancient weapons, and even mummies.

It was a treasure trove worth at least a billion dollars.

"What a lavish place," he muttered under his breath.

"Ms. Scarlet, what brings you here?"

An elderly voice interrupted his musings. A coughing man appeared on the second floor, accompanied by several people.

The man was tall but gaunt, his skeletal frame resembling a bamboo pole.

Ethan instantly recognized him as the elderly man who had collapsed outside the restaurant the previous night.

"This world sure is small," he thought.

"Uncle Andrew, I didn't plan on visiting. My daughter is still in the hospital," Ms. Scarlet explained with a soft laugh, leading Ethan upstairs.
"But when I heard about your worsening health, I decided to bring Ethan to see you."

Their conversation revealed a close family bond.

Hearing about his condition, the relatives surrounding the man exchanged sorrowful glances. It was clear to all that his time was running out.

"How thoughtful of you," Andrew chuckled. "But no need for sadness. Life and death are destined. I've come to terms with it."

"And how is Cici doing? Is she recovering well?" he asked, his tone full of genuine concern.

"I recently acquired a few ginseng roots. Take them back for her recovery," Andrew offered generously.

"Thank you for your kindness, Uncle Andrew. Cici is out of danger now," Ms. Scarlet replied warmly. She gestured toward Ethan.

"Uncle Andrew, this is Ethan, my brother and our savior. He's the one who saved Cici," she introduced him. "I brought him here today to see if he can help you."

"Ethan? You saved Cici?"

Andrew extended his hand with a smile. "Such incredible skills at such a young age. A hero indeed. Thank you, young man."

Ethan quickly shook his hand. "Mr. Brooks, you're too kind. Any friend of Sis Scarlet is a friend of mine."

Just as Ethan began using his diagnostic ability, an angry shout erupted from upstairs.

"You again, you fraud?!"

Descending rapidly was a young woman—Emily Brooks, Andrew's granddaughter.

She froze upon seeing Ethan, her expression shifting from shock to fury.

"You fraud! You almost killed my grandfather last night, and now you dare show up at our house?"

Pointing an accusing finger at Ethan, she yelled, "Guards! Someone arrest him and take him to the police!"