Chapter 263

Evelyn's breath caught in her throat as she took in the unexpected sight before her.

Never in her wildest dreams had she imagined her brothers would cross paths with Nathaniel at the hospital. The potential fallout sent chills down her spine. Was this the beginning of the end?

She couldn't bring herself to disclose her complicated relationship with Nathaniel to her protective siblings.

Knowing Alexander's fiery temper, Evelyn was certain he'd make Nathaniel pay dearly if he discovered the truth.

This confrontation had to be stopped at all costs. Evelyn steeled herself to intervene.

Alexander's piercing gaze locked onto Nathaniel as he strode into the hospital room with his brothers, instantly making the space feel claustrophobic.

Nathaniel blinked in confusion at the Montgomery brothers' sudden appearance. What were they doing here?

Julian returned moments later with a fruit platter. Relief washed over him when he saw Alexander's group approaching.

But his expression darkened when he noticed Nathaniel. "Why are you still here?" Julian demanded, his voice sharp.

Nathaniel frowned. "Is there a problem with me being here?"

After all, he'd just rescued Evelyn. Didn't that earn him some visiting rights?

Daniel stepped forward, placing a firm hand on Nathaniel's shoulder. "Come with me," he said smoothly. "Let me explain why you can't stay."

Before Nathaniel could protest, he found himself escorted out of the room.

Daniel leaned against the doorframe, speaking in hushed tones. "Can't you see you're interrupting a family moment? Do you enjoy being the unwanted guest?"

Nathaniel's eyes widened in shock.

Family moment? Had Evelyn and Julian progressed to introducing each other to their families already?

Just then, Robert rushed over, addressing Nathaniel urgently. "Mr. Whitmore, we've apprehended the kidnappers. What are your orders?"

Nathaniel's expression hardened as he recalled the recent events. "Why are you asking me? Hand them over to the authorities."

With Evelyn surrounded by so many protective men, his presence seemed unnecessary now.

Back in the hospital room, Evelyn propped herself up against the pillows, offering her brothers a weak smile. "Alexander, I'm really fine. If you don't believe me, ask Julian."

Julian placed the fruit platter beside her. "Evelyn, you need proper rest," he said gently. "Eat these when you're ready."

Alexander had a thousand questions burning in his mind, but seeing Evelyn safe rendered him speechless.

Nothing mattered more to him than his sister's wellbeing.

Sebastian handed Evelyn a new phone. "Keep this with you. Call us anytime you need anything."

Julian added reassuringly, "Don't worry, I'll stay at the hospital. She's in good hands."

After her brothers left, Evelyn lay alone, her hand instinctively drifting to her abdomen. Thank goodness the baby was safe.

The next morning, Evelyn was determined to check out, consumed by thoughts of retribution.

Julian remained steadfast by her side. "Evelyn, why the rush? Consider staying one more day. Remember, you're carrying precious cargo now."

"But Julian, I can't just sit here doing nothing!"

Dark circles under her eyes betrayed a sleepless night filled with nightmares of what might have been if Nathaniel hadn't arrived in time.

"Evelyn, Alexander's handling everything. Trust him. Your adoptive parents won't escape justice this time," Julian assured.

Before Evelyn could respond, the door burst open.

Beverly, Walter, and Giselle marched in, followed by a group of rough-looking country folk.

Walter wasted no time. "Dad's been arrested. You need to come to the police station immediately to get him released!"

Beverly wrung her hands nervously. "After everything Walter did for you, how can you just abandon him now?"

Evelyn's laugh was bitter. "You're no family of mine. If anything, you're the criminals here."