Chapter 206

Victoria's hands trembled as she faced Nathaniel. "Nathaniel, I'm considering the long-term benefits. It's crucial for everyone to understand the surgical details."

"What purpose would that serve? He's not a medical professional," Julian countered, his calculated words pushing her to the brink.

Her forced smile wavered dangerously.

Nathaniel rose abruptly, barely containing his fury. "We'll discuss this after Dr. Montgomery consults with the specialists."

With that, he strode out, his movements sharp with suppressed anger.

Victoria reached for him, but he brushed her off without hesitation. His eyes held none of their usual warmth.

Left standing alone, she turned to Julian, frustration simmering. "Was that really necessary?"

"I merely stated facts," Julian replied coolly. "You've been so eager to marry him, I assumed your relationship was solid. But from what I just witnessed? He doesn't care for you."

"Julian, Nathaniel and I are engaged," Victoria snapped. "He loves me. He's just upset about my oversight."

Julian's gaze sharpened. "Is that so? Or did he only agree to this engagement after you promised to arrange his grandmother's surgery?"

Her face paled. "That's absurd! We've been together three years. If not for that accident, I'd already be his wife." She drew a shaky breath. "You've never approved of me, but don't interfere with my happiness."

"If you're so convinced this is happiness, proceed," Julian growled. "Victoria, while I've never liked you, I opposed this match because he's wrong for you. That was my only motive."

Despite her being adopted, he couldn't ignore his conscience.

She laughed bitterly. "For my sake? Then prove it—stop lecturing me and focus on perfecting Mrs. Whitmore's surgery."

Storming out, one thought burned in her mind—she wasn't a Montgomery by blood, but she'd carve her own destiny.

In this world, only power guaranteed happiness.

Jonathan stood in the hospital billing queue when a man in a tailored black suit nearly collided with him.

Glancing up, Jonathan met piercing eyes that sent an involuntary chill through him.

Nathaniel Whitmore towered over him, his presence commanding the space between them.

Recognition flickered in Nathaniel's gaze—this was the man who'd brought Evelyn to the hospital.

His jaw tightened as he noted the bills in Jonathan's hand. "Settling medical fees?" Nathaniel's tone was glacial.

"Y-yes," Jonathan stammered, unnerved by the intensity radiating from the other man.

Nathaniel's brow furrowed. "Is the patient recovering well?"

Jonathan hesitated. Does he know Evelyn?

Nathaniel's impatience flared. "I asked you a question."

"The patient is stable," Jonathan answered cautiously. "Sir, are you here for a consultation?"

Something felt off. Nathaniel's demeanor was too authoritative, his face oddly familiar.

Then it clicked.

Jonathan's eyes widened. "You're Nathaniel Whitmore—CEO of Whitmore Group?"