Chapter 99

Nathaniel stared at the flickering surgical lights, his voice icy. "The cause remains undetermined."

Evelyn's stomach twisted as she recalled Nathaniel mentioning Eleanor's declining health.

She clenched her fists. "When can we schedule the operation? Why the delay?"

Nathaniel's face darkened. "Are you questioning my judgment? Grandmother has refused treatment for months. You know exactly why."

"Isn't there another way?" Evelyn pressed.

His lips curled into a mocking smile. "What solution do you propose? Should we try conceiving an heir?"

Evelyn's hands instinctively moved to her abdomen, her silence speaking volumes.

She debated revealing her pregnancy to Eleanor. If only the stubborn woman would consent to surgery...

Beatrice cut in sharply. "Don't fantasize, Evelyn. You'll never carry the Whitmore heir."

Penelope nodded viciously. "She's clearly manipulated Grandmother's condition to trap Nathaniel. How calculating."

Evelyn's bitter laugh echoed in the sterile hallway. She fixed her gaze on the operating theater's glowing sign.

Nathaniel tugged at his collar. "Nothing to say for yourself?"

"What would satisfy you?" Evelyn's voice cracked. "If I agree, I'm scheming. If I refuse, I'm heartless. There's no winning with you people."

Her sharp tone made Nathaniel stiffen.

Penelope shrank back at his thunderous expression.

The operating light turned green. The surgeon emerged, and Evelyn rushed forward. "How is she?"

"Critical. We must operate immediately."

When they wheeled Eleanor out, the frail woman depended on a ventilator. Evelyn's vision blurred with tears.

Three years ago, when she'd had nothing, Eleanor had been her only kindness.

In the private ward, the Whitmore family hovered anxiously.

Nathaniel's command sliced through the tension. "Everyone out. She needs rest."

Beatrice ushered relatives away while Evelyn remained at Eleanor's bedside.

The moment Eleanor stirred, her papery hand grasped Evelyn's. "Please," Evelyn begged, tears falling. "Have the surgery."

Eleanor's weak headshake crushed Evelyn's hope. Should she confess her pregnancy?

Nathaniel's heavy hand landed on Evelyn's shoulder. "Rest now, Grandmother. We'll return later."

As Eleanor's eyelids fluttered closed, Evelyn fled the room, her heart breaking. She wiped her tears, one hand cradling her stomach. This required careful consideration.

Nathaniel watched her retreat with glacial detachment.

Beatrice seized his arm. "Divorce that gold-digger before Eleanor wakes. Once the surgery's done, it won't matter what the old woman thinks."