Chapter 270

Evelyn Roland had just stepped out of the children's room when Olivia Valdemar rushed forward eagerly. Behind her stood Howard Merouin in a crisp suit, both staring intently at Evelyn.

"How is he?" Olivia twisted her fingers nervously.

Evelyn shook her head slightly. "It's too early to tell." Her gaze lingered on Howard. "But a child's psychological issues often stem from their home environment. Olivia, may I speak with Mr. Merouin alone?"

Olivia visibly stiffened, instinctively looking at her husband.

Howard squeezed his wife's hand reassuringly. "Go rest. I'll join you after my talk with Ms. Roland." He pressed a kiss to her forehead. "Don't worry."

The moment Olivia left, the warmth in Howard's smile faded.

"What did you want to say, Ms. Roland?"

"Theodore is terrified of you." Evelyn cut straight to the point. "Not just shyness—actual fear."

Howard's eyes flickered. "I travel frequently. It's natural for children to be wary of strangers."

"No." Evelyn took a step closer. "He trembles at the mere mention of you. Mr. Merouin, why would a three-year-old be so afraid of his own father?"

The air turned glacial.

All pretense of politeness vanished from Howard's face. He adjusted his cufflinks with deliberate slowness, his voice icy. "Mind your words, Ms. Roland."

"I'm stating facts." Evelyn held her ground. "If Theodore's condition stems from you, it's my duty to investigate."

"Investigate?" Howard suddenly smiled, though his eyes remained frigid. "I suggest you know your limits. We'll find another specialist for Theodore. Your services are no longer required."

He gestured toward the door.

Evelyn smirked. "I was hired by Mrs. Valdemar. You have no authority to dismiss me." She picked up her bag, pausing to give Howard a meaningful look. "By the way, Theodore drew something quite... interesting earlier."

Howard's pupils constricted.

Evelyn strode toward the exit without looking back. She could feel his venomous gaze coiling around her like a serpent.

The moment the door clicked shut, a deafening crash echoed behind her—the sound of something heavy being hurled against the floor.