Chapter 255
I frowned in confusion. The distinctive scent was unmistakable–Amber Crest Restaurant. But Lucas had called a different
establishment during our drive.
“The medical center changed its meal service provider recently,” my mother commented, oblivious to my confusion. “The food is
quite good.”
I played along, not wanting to worry her. “That’s nice. I’m glad they’re taking good care of you.”
As we ate, I caught Lucas’s eye: The slight narrowing of his gaze told me he’d also recognized the distinctive aroma of the
premium venison that could only come from Amber Crest. Only Ethan could have arranged this, a gesture that stirred conflicting
emotions within me.
After dinner, Lucas checked his watch and sighed regretfully. “I’m afraid I have a prior commitment I can’t reschedule.”
I nodded in understanding. “Go ahead. I’ll stay a bit longer with my mother.”
He hesitated, clearly reluctant to leave me alone. “I can send a car for you later.”
“I’ll be fine,” I assured him. “Thank you for everything today.”
After Lucas left, my mother and I chatted about inconsequential things, both of us grateful for the peaceful moment amidst the
chaos of our lives.
The vibration of my phone interrupted our conversation. Ethan Stone’s name flashed on the screen.
I immediately declined the call, my heart racing despite my outward calm. I had believed I could face him calmly after everything
that had transpired, but witnessing him protect Victoria and dote on Emma still ignited my anger and rekindled my grief for Lily.
“Who was that?” my mother asked, her eyes sharp with concern.
I forced a smile. “Just an unwanted solicitation.”
Moments later, my phone buzzed with a text message: “Answer the phone, or you’ll face the consequences.”
I maintained my composure as the phone rang again. “Excuse me,
- om. I need to take this. It’s work–related.”
I stepped out into the Emergency Escape Corridor, away from my mother’s hearing, before answering the call.
“What do you want?” I demanded, my voice tight with barely controlled fury.
“Is this how you speak to your Alpha?” Ethan’s deep voice rumbled through the line.
“Is this how a human being with a conscience behaves?” I countered. “Oh wait, you don’t have one.”
“You’re causing trouble again,” he accused. “Releasing Connor and taking him away. You’re responsible if he harms Victoria.”
I scoffed and hung up without further comment. Taking a deep breath, I composed myself before returning to my mother’s ward.
1/3
Chapter 255
“Everything okay?” she asked as I reentered the room.
I nodded, my expression carefully neutral. “Just some work matters at Canis Enterprises that need my attention.”
“Don’t stay out too late,” she cautioned. “And be careful.”
“I will,” I promised, gathering my things. “Do you want me to call the nursing staff before I go?”
She waved away my concern. “I can manage. I’m not completely helpless yet.”
I smiled at her stubborn independence, so like my own. “I’ll see you tomorrow, Mom.”
With a final kiss to her forehead, I left the ward, unaware that my mother’s eyes followed me with determination.
(Evelyn’s POV)
+20 Bonus
I waited until Olivia’s footsteps faded down the corridor before throwing back my covers. My legs were unsteady as I stood, but determination fueled my movements.
Something was wrong. I had seen the flash of pain in my daughter’s eyes when that phone call came through. She was hiding
something from me, and I intended to find out what.
I dressed quickly, grateful that my condition had improved enough to allow short excursions. Slipping past the nurses‘ station
was easier than expected–shift change provided the perfect distraction.
Outside the medical center, I hailed Martin Briggs, a taxi driver I’d used several times during my stay here. He was reliable and,
more importantly, discreet.
“Follow that silver car,” I instructed, pointing to Olivia’s vehicle pulling out of the parking lot.
Martin raised an eyebrow but asked no questions. “Yes, ma’am.”
He skillfully maintained a safe distance while tracking Olivia’s car through Shadow Creek, his years of experience evident in his
precise movements.
“Not your first time doing this, is it?” I observed.
He chuckled. “Let’s just say I’ve had interesting customers before.”
When Olivia’s car finally stopped near a secluded park, I leaned forward anxiously. “Park here, but keep the engine running.”
Martin complied, positioning the taxi where we had a clear view without being obvious.
My heart nearly stopped when I saw who was waiting for Olivia. Ethan Stone stood in the moonlight, his powerful presence
unmistakable even from a distance.
I watched as my daughter approached Ethan. Their body language spoke of tension and conflict.
What happened next sent rage coursing through my veins. Ethan grasped Olivia’s chin and kissed her forcefully, ignoring her
obvious resistance.
2/3
Chapter 255
+20 Bonus
“Stop the car,” I commanded, already reaching for the door handle.
Despite my illness, I rushed toward them, determined to defend my daughter from what I perceived as an unwelcome advance.
SURPERISE GIFT: 3850 bonus free for you,activity time is limited!
P
Comments
Support
