Holy! It's a whole platter of solid gold bars. Madblade Martial Academy sure knows how to make a statement!"

"Seriously, how much would all that gold be worth? Must be at least a few million dollars."

"Are they really trying to cozy up to Moonlit Apothecary that hard?"

The extravagant gift had everyone buzzing. Even Francesca and Lauren were momentarily stunned.

"Mr. Sanford, this is way too much. You're just here for a meal. There's no need for such a grand gesture. Please, take it back," Francesca said, extending the tray toward Rodney.

While she was pleased with Andrew receiving gifts, this level of generosity was overwhelming. Her kind-hearted nature made her feel awkward accepting so much gold.

Rodney waved it off with a smile. "Ms. Aicker, please, just accept it for Dr. Lloyd's sake. It's really not that much."

There was no way Rodney intended to take back the gift. However, his grand gesture was not just about generosity—it had a deeper motive.

Though Madblade Ma