The Unlucky Turn by Mark Twain 115
Actually, Leilani could deduce the symptoms from his pulse, but the clincher was her observation. Since sitting down, Hale had been unconsciously rubbing his knees
together a typical reaction for patients with that specific irritation.
–
Hale’s pupils shrank, and he yanked his hand back. “How did you know?”
Leilani didn’t answer the question directly. Instead, she continued, “While not fatal, the condition flares up repeatedly. Conventional treatments only provide temporary relief, not a cure. And…”
She paused, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Because of the location of the lesions, many people mistake it for an STD. Which has led to you remaining… a virgin to this day.”
Yes, Leilani said it on purpose to embarrass him. That’s what he got for badmouthing her profession at the door. She had to teach him a lesson, or he’d
he’d really think they were running a scam.
“Pfft!” Hale spat out a mouthful of water, his entire face turning beet red. “You… you n figure that out too?”
can read allodged the spray of water, looking at his flustered state with a half-smile. “L
Leilani nimbly
can read all of that from your pulse. I can tell even more private things if you want me to list them.”
^ 个
“No! No need!” Hale looked ready to die of shame, but beneath the embarrassment was shock and newfound respect. He took a deep breath and said solemnly, “Truly incredible. I apologize for my earlier words. I shouldn’t have called it a scam. I believe now! Please, you have to cure me!”
Leilani nodded and stood up to get her acupuncture kit. “Your condition is caused by deep-seated heat and is chronic. Treatment and medication will take about six months, divided into five stages. Today, I’ll start with bloodletting therapy to release the heat from your system.”
Hale was lost with the terminology, but after the skill she just displayed, he would agree to anything.
However, when Hale saw the long, thin silver needles, his muscles instantly tensed up. He remembered a crucial question. “Wait! Does acupuncture hurt?”
“No,” Leilani said with a straight face. She wasn’t lying; acupuncture usually resulted in a tingling or numb sensation, not pain. But despite that, few people didn’t shudder at the sight of the needles.
Leilani gently moved Hale’s shirt aside to expose the skin on his lower abdomen. Just as she diagnosed, red patches and scales were clearly visible, with some areas scabbing over from scratching.
18:41
Hale was rarely examined like this, especially by someone as beautiful as Leilani. He felt incredibly awkward. He squirmed uncomfortably, his ears burning. “Um… can we hurry it up?”
Leilani remained calm. While disinfecting the needles, she said, “Relax. Don’t worry, to a doctor, a patient has no gender.”
Hale coughed awkwardly and muttered, “But I’m not a doctor…”
Ignoring his mumbling, Leilani pressed her fingers against the meridian points on his leg. Once she located the spot, she deftly inserted the needle.
18:41
Cedella
Cedella is a passionate storyteller known for her bold romantic and spicy novels that keep readers hooked from the very first chapter. With a flair for crafting emotionally intense plots and unforgettable characters, she blends love, desire, and drama into every story she writes. Cedella’s storytelling style is immersive and addictive—perfect for fans of heated romances and heart-pounding twists.