Chapter 320

Nathaniel's cold demeanor sent a chill through the sterile hospital corridor.

Was he truly unconcerned about upsetting Victoria and the repercussions it might have on Eleanor’s surgery?

Beatrice swiftly stepped in, her voice laced with diplomacy. "Nathaniel, Ms. Sinclair came specifically for your grandmother. It's hardly appropriate to ask her to leave."

Nathaniel’s reply was glacial. "Perhaps those who bring Grandmother distress should keep their distance. We wouldn’t want to jeopardize the surgery’s outcome."

Evelyn barely suppressed a smirk.

She hadn’t expected Nathaniel to be so blunt.

Victoria’s lips trembled, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "Nathaniel, how can you speak to me like this? After everything I’ve done to make this surgery possible!"

Nathaniel’s gaze sharpened. "Are you certain Grandmother’s surgery is happening because of you, Victoria? Or have you spun so many lies that you’ve started believing them yourself?"

Victoria stiffened.

Under Nathaniel’s piercing scrutiny, unease coiled in her stomach. It felt as though he could see straight through her—as if he knew everything.

But that was impossible.

Unless…

Her eyes flicked to Evelyn. Had she dared to confess the truth?

No. Evelyn wouldn’t risk it. Not when she was entangled with Julian.

No man tolerated betrayal, and Evelyn, desperate to reclaim Nathaniel’s affection, wouldn’t be foolish enough to expose herself.

So Victoria clung to her stolen credit without hesitation.

Evelyn stood silently, acutely aware of the weight of their gazes.

Why were they staring at her like that?

Victoria forced a brittle smile. "Nathaniel, I don’t know what you’re implying. I’ve never lied to you."

Nathaniel’s jaw tightened.

Did he really have to spell it out?

But revealing Evelyn and Julian’s affair now would only cause chaos. Beatrice would undoubtedly make a scene, and Eleanor, fragile post-surgery, didn’t need the stress.

Noticing Nathaniel’s darkening expression, Beatrice quickly guided Victoria aside.

"Ms. Sinclair, your concern for Eleanor is admirable. But there’s no need for you to wait here. I’ll inform you the moment there’s news."

If this escalated, the Whitmore-Sinclair alliance could crumble before it even began.

Victoria hesitated, then acquiesced. "Fine. I’ll wait downstairs. But I expect updates."

Beatrice offered a placating smile. "Would you like company? Waiting alone can be tedious."

Repairing this rift was essential.

Once Eleanor recovered, Nathaniel would have no reason to keep Evelyn around. Victoria’s place in the family was inevitable.

Satisfaction curled through Victoria as she shot Evelyn a triumphant glance.

This was the respect she deserved.

Beatrice turned to Evelyn, her tone dismissive. "You may leave as well. The surgery has started. Your presence is unnecessary."

Evelyn smirked—then casually dropped a document in front of Victoria.

The bold title glared up at them: "Whitmore Group Heir Agreement."