Chapter 469

Zachary and Pam stared in disbelief. They couldn't comprehend such audacity from an adopted daughter.

She had transformed into someone entirely unrecognizable from five years ago... Pam clutched her chest, stumbling backward. "Oh heavens! Oh heavens! Why did Eleanor bring home this wretched girl? How could she be so utterly ungrateful?!"

"Grandpa! Grandma!" A honeyed voice cut through the tension.

Victoria had heard the commotion outside. Seeing them berating Isabella, she rushed forward. She gently supported Pam, her voice dripping with feigned concern. "Please don't upset yourself, Grandma. Don't harm your health. Isabella didn't mean to provoke you... She's still immature... speaks without filtering her thoughts..."

"Immature? You share the same birthday! How are you so compassionate while she's so vile?" Pam's fury intensified at the reminder of Isabella's defiance.

Zachary snorted in contempt. "What was Senior Theodore thinking? They clothed and fed this foundling for years. He even gifted her substantial family shares. She not only framed you but attempted to murder Benjamin! A despicable creature! I must confront Senior Theodore immediately!"

"Grandpa, no! Isabella is still family. She carries our name. We can't do this to her..." Victoria hastily intervened, her voice trembling.

"Look at you! Too kind-hearted! That's why that wicked Isabella set you up! Don't stop me. I'll handle this. She doesn't deserve our surname!"

Pam grasped Victoria's hand, her face etched with worry. "Instead of defending that ingrate, focus on yourself. Look at you! Only two months and you've withered away!"

"No, Grandma, really... I'm perfectly fine..." Victoria's eyes welled up. Her voice cracked, thick with emotion. Her tear-filled gaze made her appear profoundly wronged and pitiable.

It shattered Pam's heart. "Oh, my precious granddaughter..." She soothingly stroked Victoria's hand. "Don't pretend with me. I know you've suffered. But rest assured, we all believe you. Since Isabella harmed Benjamin, it proves she wants you both dead to seize all Montgomery shares. We won't allow it."

"Ah, yes! We bought you a magnificent gift on our vacation. Come with us later. I'll show you."

A dark glint flashed in Victoria's eyes.

Pam and Zachary lived independently. They owned over a dozen mansions. Countless priceless treasures filled their homes. Zachary was a renowned antique collector and appraiser. Their collection contained immensely valuable artifacts.

Selling it all would net Victoria a colossal fortune! Her departure was in two days. She never anticipated another massive windfall! Once she left Westchester, the Montgomery family would plunge into chaos. These two elders would be left destitute. She wanted Isabella to return to a shattered, bankrupt family!

The thought made her expression sweeter, more docile. "Thank you, Grandma."

"Oh, darling, no need for formalities! So polite! I'll check on Benjamin and speak with your parents. Wait for me." Pam patted her hand and entered the hospital room.

After they left, Victoria slipped into an empty hallway. She retrieved her phone. A text message flew to Rex:

[Make arrangements regarding William and Beatrice...]