Chapter 461

Madeline Galatea studied Evelyn Roland intently, her admiration growing more evident with each passing moment.

This girl was truly extraordinary.

Those clear, unflinching eyes showed not a trace of timidity. In all her years, Madeline had met countless people, but rarely had she encountered someone so composed at such a young age.

That calm, unshakable poise alone commanded respect.

"Madame Galatea, since you're recovering well, I'll take my leave now." Evelyn deftly gathered her silver needles with practiced efficiency.

Madeline exchanged a glance with Margaret Lefèvre, both women's eyes brimming with gratitude.

"Dear child, once this old bones feels better, you must come visit." Madeline's voice was warm. "Margaret will prepare her specialties for you."

Evelyn gave a slight nod, her gaze briefly flickering to Scarlett Galatea before turning away.

She had barely stepped out of the ICU when hurried footsteps followed.

"Miss Roland!" Scarlett caught up, pulling a black card from her purse. "Ten million. Please accept it."

"Unnecessary." Evelyn's tone remained detached.

Saving lives had never been about payment. Had Sebastian Valdemar not intervened, she wouldn't have set foot in this hospital.

"You must take it!" Scarlett insisted, thrusting the card forward. "Grandmother insisted. You saved her life—you saved our entire family."

Evelyn gently pushed the card away. "It was nothing."

Undeterred, Scarlett pressed it into her palm. "The PIN is six zeros." Without waiting for a response, she spun on her heel and marched off, shoulders set with determination.

Back in the room, Madeline reclined against the pillows as her granddaughter returned. "Why the rush, child? I'm perfectly fine now."

Scarlett buried her face against the elderly woman's shoulder, voice trembling. "You terrified me..."

"Silly girl." Madeline stroked her hair. "Thank Mr. Valdemar and Evelyn. We owe them everything today."

At Sebastian's name, Scarlett's expression shifted. "Grandmother... what do you think of Mr. Valdemar?"

"That young man..." Madeline's eyes sparkled. "Handsome, distinguished, though he seems rather frail. But..."

Her tone turned playful. "Standing beside Evelyn? They complemented each other perfectly. Like a pair carved from jade."

Scarlett's smile froze. "What did you say?"

"I said they look destined for each other." Madeline chuckled. "Can't you see it?"

Scarlett's fingers tightened imperceptibly around the bedsheet.