Chapter 284

"What exactly is your relationship with Sebastian Valdemar?"

Julian Roland's piercing gaze locked onto her.

Evelyn Roland's fingers trembled slightly as she calmly closed the medical chart. "Just a doctor-patient relationship."

"Really?" Julian studied her face intently.

"Don't you trust me, brother?" Evelyn smiled faintly, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear.

Julian's expression softened, though his brow remained furrowed. "Sebastian has a complicated background. Stay away from him."

"I understand."

"Evelyn..." He hesitated, protective instincts surging for this sister he'd only recently reclaimed.

"Don't worry," Evelyn cut in smoothly. "We're merely acquaintances."

Seeing her composed demeanor, Julian finally relaxed. "Remember, tell me immediately if anything happens."

"Of course."

Childish laughter spilled from the hospital room.

Theodore Valdemar curled contentedly in Sebastian's lap, their heads bent together over a storybook. The boy who'd refused to speak a month ago now giggled and pointed at the pages.

Evelyn paused in the doorway, an unconscious smile touching her lips.

"Dr. Roland." Olivia Valdemar sat propped against the pillows, her complexion markedly improved.

Sebastian stood abruptly to offer his seat, his movements almost too quick.

"Your vitals look excellent." Evelyn checked the monitors. "Keep maintaining this positive outlook."

"After cheating death, perspective changes." Olivia ruffled her son's hair. "For Theo, I'll keep fighting."

A phone vibrated.

Bianca Savigny's name flashed on the screen.

"Excuse me." Evelyn stepped into the hallway, noting the security camera at the far end. "I'll call you back from my office."

After ending the call, she returned to bid farewell.

"Let me walk you out." Sebastian already held his coat.

"That won't be necessary." Her refusal was crisp and final.

The door clicked shut behind her, obscuring the sudden dimming of light in the man's eyes.

"If you like her, chase her." Olivia's quiet voice broke the silence.

Sebastian stiffened.

"Don't bother denying it." She chuckled. "The way you look at her? Impossible to hide."