Chapter 492

Leaving the Music Academy, Evelyn's fingers trembled slightly with lingering adrenaline.

Yanking Victoria's perfect blonde hair had been purely instinctual.

No matter how she rationalized it, the action remained undeniably reckless.

Yet she couldn't suppress the dark satisfaction curling in her chest. That arrogant smirk Victoria always wore had finally been wiped away.

After reviewing her notes at the university library, she checked her watch and hailed a taxi to the medical center.

Standing outside Eleanor's private suite, conflicting emotions twisted her stomach into knots.

Eleanor remained the sole reason Nathaniel refused to sign their divorce papers.

But no child deserved to grow up in a household devoid of love. The decision was final.

If Nathaniel never wanted children, she couldn't risk subjecting an innocent life to the same icy neglect she'd endured for three years.

Drawing a steadying breath, she pushed open the door. "Grandmother, I've come to see you. How are you feeling today?"

"Much improved, dear." Eleanor patted the bedside chair. "I've been taking evening walks in the courtyard. The doctors say I may be discharged next week."

The healthy flush on Eleanor's cheeks brought genuine relief.

Over lunch, Eleanor dabbed her lips with a napkin. "Once your finals conclude, you must focus on resting. After the baby comes, Nathaniel can arrange—"

"I need to confess something." Evelyn's gaze dropped to her untouched salad.

The air grew thick with tension.

Eleanor set down her fork. "The pregnancy, I presume?"

Evelyn's head snapped up.

Words failed her. Admitting the truth now would only compound her deception.

A heavy sigh filled the silence. "I'd so hoped...to hold my great-grandchild before..."

"Forgive me, Grandmother." Shame burned Evelyn's throat.

Eleanor clasped her hand. "Is there anything else you wish to tell me?"

Evelyn bit her lip. "I've...found my birth family."

"Truly?" Eleanor's face lit up. "That's wonderful news! I've worried about you being alone in this world. Are they treating you well?"

"My parents have passed, but I have three brothers now." Warmth seeped into her voice at the memory of their protective embraces. "They've welcomed me with open arms."

"Where do they reside?"

"Northridge City."

Eleanor's grip tightened imperceptibly. "So you've decided to return to Northridge."

Evelyn nodded. "But I'll visit often once I'm settled."

"My dear girl." Eleanor's smile turned wistful. "I'd hoped to keep you close. I've come to see you as my own. Pity Nathaniel couldn't appreciate his fortune. I wonder who'll eventually deserve you."

Evelyn's breath caught. "You knew?"

"Do you take me for a fool?" Eleanor chuckled. "I'd hoped the pretend pregnancy might kindle real affection between you. But with your family found and no child to bind you..."

Tears spilled down Evelyn's cheeks despite her efforts.

Gently, Eleanor brushed them away. "When will you be signing the divorce papers?"

Evelyn shook her head in confusion.

"Not you, darling." Eleanor's gaze shifted to the doorway. "I was asking that foolish grandson of mine."