Chapter 92

Julian's lips thinned into a stubborn line. "I refuse to do it."

The call disconnected with finality, leaving Victoria utterly speechless.

Frustration bubbled inside her as she redialed, but Julian remained unreachable.

With a sharp exhale, she tossed her phone onto the car seat. "Why won't Julian agree? This makes no sense!"

Her chauffeur glanced in the rearview mirror. "Ms. Sinclair, perhaps he's still upset about the incident three years ago. He's trying to protect you."

Victoria's anger ebbed as realization dawned. "You might be right. My brothers never disliked the Whitmores before that night. Their protectiveness explains everything."

"Exactly, Ms. Sinclair. You're their precious sister. Your wellbeing comes first."

A small smile touched Victoria's lips. "Then I'll just have to convince him properly."

"May I suggest speaking with Mrs. Harrington instead of Eleanor? The family would support you, and Nathaniel would surely propose."

"Brilliant idea."

Victoria retrieved her phone, composing herself before dialing Beatrice. She wouldn't let Nathaniel slip through her fingers again.

When Nathaniel returned home that evening, he found his mother seated primly on the sofa. His wedding portrait with Evelyn lay discarded on the floor.

His brows knitted together. "Mother, what's the meaning of this?"

"That photograph doesn't belong here. Nathaniel, we need to discuss your grandmother's surgery. Victoria explained everything. You've always been devoted to Eleanor - why hesitate now?"

Beatrice's voice turned sharp. "Divorce Evelyn immediately and propose to Victoria. Her brother will then perform the surgery. Two problems solved at once."

Nathaniel sank onto the couch, exhaustion lining his features. "Mother, Grandmother isn't easily deceived. If she discovers the divorce, she'll refuse treatment."

"Then we simply won't tell her. At her age, she'll never know unless someone tells her."

"That someone being Evelyn. Who knew she'd become so manipulative? Threatening us like this-"

"Evelyn would never."

Nathaniel knew better - she'd already messaged him days ago to finalize their divorce properly.

"Stop defending her! How can you tolerate her affair? End this farce immediately."

"My marriage is my concern."

"But Eleanor doesn't have time for your indecision! Think carefully about what I've said."

Beatrice rose abruptly, addressing Abigail. "Dispose of this at once."

The maid moved slowly, waiting until Beatrice departed before hesitating. "Mr. Whitmore... shall I really discard it?"

"Store it in the basement."

Nathaniel retrieved his phone, initiating a video call to his grandmother.

Eleanor answered immediately, rocking gently in her chair. "Nathaniel, what's happening between you and Evelyn?"

The question caught him completely off guard.