Andrew eyed the cup of tea in front of him but made no move to touch it. He said, "My mom taught me not to drink anything a stranger offers me."

Jared's smile stiffened, and he let out an awkward chuckle. "Come on, Andrew, that's a bit much. I'm not exactly a stranger. I'm Fran's senior and one of Blumedale Hospital's most promising contenders at this year's Grand Medical Summit."

Andrew raised an eyebrow, genuinely surprised. "Blumedale Hospital's most promising contender? Wow, Jared, you sure aren't lacking in confidence."

Jared straightened his crisp suit, clearing his throat. "As medical professionals, we should remain humble. Honestly, I'm already being quite modest."

Andrew gave a slight nod. "Well, since you're Fran's senior, I suppose I can trust you. I just had a shouting match with a bunch of fools earlier, and I'm parched."

Francesca chimed in with a playful smile. "If you're that thirsty, go ahead and drink. If you're worried, you can have mine."

Andrew shook hi