Being a member of the Smith family, Julie unquestionably possessed the means to make such a generous pledge.

Maria was in high spirits. Upon hearing Julie's words, she smiled.

“Mom, I'm familiar with the Rejuvenating Cream recipe. If I needed it,

I could have concocted it myself."

This revelation took Julie aback. Then it struck her just how exceptional Maria was as an alchemist when it came to medicine.

Anything medicinal was a breeze for Maria.

“Then... Why haven't you used it? Those scars on your body are pretty unsightly. Do you intend to bear them forever?"

Maria shook her head, wearing a smile.

“Mom, the Rejuvenating Cream can erase surface scars but can't mend what lies beneath the skin."

Julie inquired, puzzled.

“So what? It still improves the appearance of the skin, right?"

"These scars are actually from a previous surgery. The surgeon can cut through the original scar if I need a similar procedure. This guarantees the operation's success and prevents additional damage to the surrounding area."

"Stop! Please, stop!"

Upon her words, Julie's hair stood on end.

"You sweet, silly girl, what on earth are you saying? Are you telling me this is from a surgery? And you might need another one?

What is this all about, my dear?" Julie asked, utterly incredulous.

How many years had Maria carried these scars?

When did Maria have the surgery? In what circumstances would Maria have to undergo such a dreadful procedure?

“The second surgery is necessary, Maria declared with unwavering resolve.

At the entrance of the Jenkins family estate, two opulent vehicles came to a halt.

One was a vivid crimson sports car, and the other was a sophisticated black commercial vehicle.

Vivian appeared somewhat enthused.

With Barbara's arrival at the Jenkins household, Elton, the former pill alchemist, had become Barbara's right hand, and Vivian had taken on the role of Elton's assistant.

The ongoing deterioration of her family's standing had left Vivian, once brimming with dreams for her future, feeling discontented and disheartened.