Chapter 365

Evelyn's head cleared instantly at Judith's words. A prickle of suspicion ran down her spine. "What happened to Jonathan?"

"He's injured—badly. They rushed him to the emergency room. Evelyn, I'm all alone here. This hospital is unfamiliar, and I don't know who else to call. Please, come quickly."

"Mrs. Reeves, don't panic. I'm on my way."

After throwing on her coat, Evelyn headed for the door—only for Margaret to intercept her.

"At least eat something before you go, dear. It's barely past dawn."

Evelyn snatched a piece of toast, barely pausing as she shoved it into her mouth.

The cab ride to the hospital felt endless. When she arrived, she dialed Judith immediately. "I'm here. Are you still in the emergency ward?"

"No, we've been moved. Room 365."

Evelyn frowned. Hadn't Judith said the injuries were life-threatening? How had he been transferred so quickly?

She pushed open the door to find Jonathan propped against the headboard, one leg encased in plaster. His face was a mess of bruises and swelling—clearly, someone had worked him over.

Her stomach twisted. Had Christopher or Julian done this?

Just yesterday, when she'd mentioned Jonathan's behavior, Christopher had threatened to "break his legs." She'd talked him down—or so she thought. Yet here was Jonathan, hospitalized with exactly that injury.

Guilt gnawed at her. Stepping inside, she kept her voice steady. "Jonathan, what happened?"

His reaction was immediate—a flinch, eyes widening in fear. He tried to speak, but the bandages around his jaw muffled the words.

Judith offered Evelyn a strained smile. "Thank God you're here. When I first saw him, he was covered in blood. I thought—" Her voice broke. "But the doctors say it's not as bad as it looks."

Evelyn nodded. "Thank goodness. But how did this happen?"

She needed answers. Assault was a serious crime.

Judith's composure shattered. "He was attacked! Jonathan never makes enemies—his business is clean, he helps people! Who would do this?" She gripped Evelyn's arm. "Do you know if he's crossed anyone?"

Evelyn froze.

"I... I don't think so. He's always been well-liked."

It was true—he'd been perfectly fine yesterday. Judith's confusion mirrored her own.

"I've called the police," Judith said. "They'll be here soon."

Evelyn's pulse jumped. "The police?"

"Yes. Any minute now."

She turned to Jonathan. "Do you remember who did this? The officers will need details."

Jonathan shrank back, trembling.

Judith handed him a notepad. "If talking hurts, write it down."

His fingers hovered over the paper, hesitating. The pen shook in his grip.