Chapter 301

Severing Bonds

Evelyn's words ignited Margaret's fury. She jabbed a finger toward her daughter, voice trembling with rage. "You—Evelyn, I'm cutting all ties with you. From this moment, you are no longer my child!"

The declaration plunged the room into stunned silence.

Evelyn didn't flinch. Her expression remained unreadable as she met Margaret's glare. "If that's your choice, I won't stop you. But right now, the priority is letting Dr. Harrison examine Dad. If you refuse my help, I'll have him leave immediately."

Margaret's lips curled in disgust. "Ungrateful wretch. After everything we've done for you, this is how you repay us? I should've smothered you the day you were born."

A bitter smile touched Evelyn's lips. "You should have. But since you didn't, it's too late for regrets now."

"Mark my words, karma will find you," Margaret spat. "You're about to become a mother yourself. I pray your child treats you with the same cruelty. May you never know happiness."

Evelyn's fingers curled into fists, but her voice stayed steady. "If that's your wish, so be it. I didn't choose my family. The only choice I have is who I become."

The words tasted like ash. Beatrice's final warning echoed in her mind, but Evelyn pushed it aside. Nothing would change her purpose here.

Nathaniel's hand closed around hers, his touch warm against her icy skin. His voice cut through the tension like a blade. "You can reject Evelyn's help, but think carefully. What matters more—your pride or William's life?"

Margaret paled. Her grip on the doorframe tightened, knuckles whitening.

Sophia arrived then, arms laden with supplies. She gently pulled Margaret aside. "Mom, please. You trust Dr. Harrison, don't you? Let him help Dad."

The lifeline gave Margaret pause. With a stiff nod, she stepped aside, allowing Nathaniel, Evelyn, and Dr. Harrison to enter.

Dr. Harrison examined William, reviewing the charts with a frown. "No more stress or shocks. Another episode could cause cerebral hemorrhage. Until further notice, only immediate family may visit. He mustn't learn about the Mitchell Group's troubles."

"When will he wake?" Margaret demanded.

"It's a temporary coma. Rest and medication will bring him around."

Sophia nodded eagerly. "Thank you, Doctor. We'll ensure he's cared for."

Dr. Harrison's gaze flicked to Nathaniel. "I'll be staying at the hospital. Page me if needed."

His presence was a favor—one few could secure.

As they exited, Sophia stopped them in the hall. "Nathaniel, thank you for arranging this. I'm grateful."

Nathaniel's response was cool. "No thanks necessary. He's Evelyn's father. That's reason enough."

Sophia's smile faltered. After an awkward beat, she turned to Evelyn. "Can we talk? Alone?"